February 27 – March 5, 2017

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 1/23/2017

  • Career Advising: W 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Th, F 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
  • Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm;
  • Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm;
  • Writing assistance: reserve appointment at http://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing/.
  • Write-in with grads: Wednesdays 9:00-12:00, Room D

2. QT STUDY HALL
Monday, Feb 27, 5:00-7:00pm, LGBTQ+ Resource Center
Need some dedicated time and some quiet space to study? Attend this study hall open to ugrads and grads. Snacks provided.

3. PEACE CORPS CELEBRATION WEEK
Tuesday, Feb 28, 10:00-11:00am, Global Education Office – Uzbekistan tea ceremony
Wednesday, Mar 1, 6:30-8:00pm, GLC Room G – Girls Leading Our World multi-media presentation
Friday, Mar 3, 6:00-8:00pm, Lefty’s – Socialize with RPCVs
Each year around Mar 1, the declaration of Peace Corps is celebrated with events highlighting the work of Peace Corps Volunteers and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs). You are invited to these events and more. Throughout the week learn from RPCVs who blog on Facebook about the "hospitality" in the countries where they served. Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/VTPeaceCorps/. Posted on behalf of grad student Rachel Kennedy, kennedy3@vt.edu.

4. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE PRESENTS: MORE WAYS OF PRACTICING SELF CARE
Tuesday, Feb 28, 6:15-8:00pm, GLC Room G
February is self-care month in the academy, some events are coming up that will help GTAs examine their current self-care practices and learn some new ones. At this session the group will discuss current self-care practices and why self-care is important for GTAs. Then, Amanda will host a “mindful moment” in which you will learn and practice some basic mindfulness exercises and discuss how mindfulness can be beneficial for your teaching and research. Posted on behalf of grad student Amanda Halliburton, ahallibu@vt.edu.

5. WEEKLY WRITE-IN SESSIONS FOR GRADS
Wednesdays, 9:00am-12:00pm, GLC Room D
Do you need to focus on writing your thesis, dissertation or journal article? This weekly write-in session supported by the Writing Center might be just the place for you! A writing coach will be available for brief feedback, but the purpose of this time is to offer you a quiet and supportive place to establish a writing routine. You are free to come for all or part of the time. Reserve your spot online on the schedule at http://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing/graduate.html.

6. MY SISTER’S KEEPER PRESENTS: FINDING MY PATH
Wednesday, Mar 1, 11:30am, Owens Banquet Hall (registration begins at 10:45 am)
Dr. Kelly Oaks, Assistant VP for the Office of Equity and Accessibility  will share her journey working in higher education and the lessons she has learned along the way. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3ds7stjcoCT3Sp7. "My Sister’s Keeper" was created to promote networking and professional development opportunities among diverse graduate and faculty women, and to enhance scholarship, positive thinking and social and academic adjustment within the Virginia Tech community.

7. INFORMATICS LAB IN UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00pm, Port Commons (Torg 3320)
The Informatics Lab in the University Libraries aims to help researchers effectively find, transform, model, visualize and share research data. Walk-in consultations are available in Port Commons (Torg 3320), Wednesdays 1-3 pm. General questions can be asked through the contact form https://researchinformatics.lib.vt.edu/contact/?utm_source=GLC%20Weekly%20Email&utm_medium=Contact%20Form, or contact our consultants directly at https://researchinformatics.lib.vt.edu/people/?utm_source=GLC%20Weekly%20Email&utm_medium=Direct%20Contact.

8. CAREERS IN SCIENCE COMMUNICATION
Thursday, Mar 2, 2:00-3:00pm, 311 Latham
NPR Science Correspondent Joe Palca and assistant producer Madeline Sofia, along with American Scientist editor Katie Burke will meet with graduate students to discuss alternative career paths. Posted on behalf of Carrie Kroehler, associate director of Center for Communicating Science.

9. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 2, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

10. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30pm, VT Women’s Center (206 Washington St)
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? Drop off your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) at the Women’s Center for some time off with games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun with childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. No need to pre-register. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

11. UNDER THE WING
Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm, Cooper House, 305 Washington St, SW
Join for fellowship, fun and a free dinner. Under the Wing is a safe gathering for Christians seeking refuge and fellowship in a welcoming and supportive environment. Geared towards graduate and non-traditional students, veterans, and young professionals, and inspired by the Light of Christ, the group  strives to deepen relationship with Jesus and each other. Find out more at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/1659953097566451/ or contact grad student Jaimie Edwards at jedwar35@vt.edu.

12. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – 1st posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 27-31) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. This year’s theme: Live. Learn. Explore. Globally. Learn more at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate-life-center/glc-art-and-photo-contest.html  Submission deadline: Thursday, Mar 22, 2017.

13. PASSPORT APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED IN SQUIRES – 1st posting
Did you know that on the first floor in Squires Student Center is a U.S. Passport Application Acceptance Facility? The site offers the products and services needed for a first-time passport and renewal passport applications. Learn more at http://campuslife.vt.edu/Squires/passport-acceptance-facility.html. 

14. CALL FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY MEMBERS – 1st posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (Iota Delta Rho – IDR) invites applications for full or associate membership. IDR creates a thriving community of scholars across VT who work to integrate different disciplines, theories, methods, etc. Show how you integrate interdisciplinary research! Both graduate and undergraduate students who are heading their own projects are accepted.​ Apply by Apr 2, 2017. Learn more about IDR at: http://www.idrsociety.org/category/news/ The application can be found at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8qwNOiSqY8KJffL. Contact Melissa Kenny(mck66@vt.edu <mailto:mck66@vt.edu> ) with questions.​​

15. UNION INNOVATION CHALLENGE 2017 – 1st posting
Students are invited to submit proposals for the challenge to be help on Apr 6, 2017. Build an epic team, put your enterprising minds together and come up with an innovation tht could net you $7,500 to fund your project in an area such as equipment, fan engagement, stadium experience, security/safety, services, training, food & nutrition, wearables, and wellness applications. This year’s theme:  Sports and Fitness. Learn more and submit at:  http://www.apexcie.vt.edu/unionchallenge/.

16. NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED FOR GSA ELECTIONS 2017-18 – 1st posting
Nominations for executive position in the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) are due by 12pm on Mar 23, 2017. Candidates must self-nominate by emailing GSA Parliamentarian Steve Haring at sharing@vt.edu <mailto:sharing@vt.edu>  and are encouraged to attend the Mar 23 General Assembly meeting. Nominations received by the deadline will appear on the official ballot during the elections at the Apr 20 meeting, and candidates will have their written statements distributed to delegates in advance of elections. Nominations received after the deadline require majority approval of the assembly, and must be written in during the election. All current graduate students are eligible to run for office. Involvement with GSA leadership is a great way to build service credit for your CV, get involved with a cross-disciplinary community of graduate students, and meet students from across the university. Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/GSA-elections-2017. Email questions to sharing@vt.edu. Posted on behalf of the GSA Judicial and Electoral Affairs Committee.

17. BOV GRAD REP HOSTS PRESIDENT’S LUNCHEON: APPLY NOW! – 1st posting
The graduate student representative to the Board of Visitors will be hosting a luncheon with President Sands, Provost Rikakis, and Dean DePauw on Mar 16 at noon at The Inn in Preston’s. If you are interested in participating, please fill out a brief survey at http://tinyurl.com/bovpreslunch. An email confirmation will be sent to you if selected to attend. Posted on behalf of current BOV grad rep Tara Reel, tdreel@vt.edu.

18. OMICRON DELTA KAPPA INVITES APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
ODK is a national leadership honor society that recognizes the highest achieving individuals in different leadership areas. Membership is extended to undergraduate juniors and seniors, graduate students, faculty, staff and alumni. Students must be in high academic standing and display qualities/achievements in one of five areas of leadership. Learn more and apply by Mar 12 at http://www.odk.org.vt.edu/membership.php. Send membership questions to Eileen Bui at ebui90@vt.edu <mailto:ebui90@vt.edu> .

19. STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES OPEN FOR GRADS – 1st posting
Several programs are still enrolling for Summer 2017, but deadlines are quickly approaching. The Comparative Study of Agricultural and Life Sciences in Morocco <http://www.globaleducation.vt.edu/?go=CALSMorocco>  program offers students the opportunity to explore topics related to agricultural and life sciences in Morocco. The  Teaching and Learning in Zambia <http://www.globaleducation.vt.edu/?go=CLAHSZambia>  program gives participants an opportunity to learn through working with Zambian students and teachers in high schools or colleges, immersion into the local socio-cultural environment to learn the context, trends and issues affecting education and skills development, and a service project benefiting the local community. Weekly walk-in advising hours are held at the Global Education Office <http://www.globaleducation.vt.edu/> : MWF 11:00am-2:00pm; T Th 9:00am-12:00pm. Contact Rommelyn Coffren at rconde@vt.edu with questions.

20. INTEREST POLL FOR SCIENTISTS’ MARCH ON WASHINGTON – 1st posting
Are you interested in attending the Scientist’s March on Washington, Apr 22, 2017? Students are attempting to arrange a bus from VT campus to Washington DC, leaving campus at 5 am on the morning of April 22. If you are interested in riding the bus and attending the event, fill out the doodle poll at http://doodle.com/poll/kcp2nagd6wv5hpha so that organizers can gauge interest. Posted on behalf of grad student Allison Pekkanen, apekk@vt.edu.

21. NOMINATIONS FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARDS (USLA) NOW OPEN – 2nd  posting
The USLAs are sponsored by Student Engagement & Campus Life. These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Virginia Tech campus and community. The USLAs celebrate accomplishments of undergraduate and graduate clubs, organizations, programs, individuals, and service projects. More information about awards, criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://campuslife.vt.edu/Student_Orgs/Awards_and_Honors/USLA.html. Submit nominations by Mar 3,  5:00pm.

22. CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR GRADUATE ART COUNCIL’S ART SHOWCASE – 2nd posting
Are you a graduate student with an interest in the arts? Do you sketch, write, or perform? Whatever your artistic talent and regardless of your field of study, the Graduate Arts Council (a campus organization dedicated to exploring, supporting, and expanding the arts in and around VT) invites you to participate in its Second Annual Art Showcase! Last year’s curated showcase featured everything from beautiful paintings to a dynamic magic show. The showcase will be held on Friday evening, Mar 24 (location TBA) and will be free and open to the public. Submit proposals by Mar 1 at https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScYg4gDLfGNnaY1_iyPja8rxrnobNNaAqW84gb2fa5Q-xAfzg/viewform?c=0&w=1.  Contact grad student Ana-Christina at acostaa@vt.edu with any questions.

23. TICKETS ON SALE FOR 19TH ANNUAL EBONY AFFAIR -2nd posting
The Black Graduate Student Organization’s 19th Annual Ebony Affair: “Unite. Inspire. Excel. An All Black Experience" is a formal banquet acknowledging, celebrating, and reflecting on outstanding faculty members, students, and community members who actively engage in our motto, “Lifting As We Climb”. The keynote address will be given by Dr. Menah Pratt-Clarke. Tickets are available at: vtebonyaffair.eventbrite.com <http://vtebonyaffair.eventbrite.com> . Posted on behalf of grad student Corey Miles, coreymiles@vt.edu .

24. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT GRANTS – 3rd posting
Through the generosity of many donors, the John E. Dooley Student Engagement Grant funds highly motivated students or student teams planning to implement community-based civic engagement projects. Up to $1,500 is available in this year’s cycle. Either two awards of $750 or one $1,500 award will be granted. Learn more at http://engage.vt.edu/programs/grants_awards.html and apply by Mar 24. Contact Catherine Cotrupi with questions regarding JEDSEG at cotrupi@vt.edu <mailto:cotrupi@vt.edu>  or 540-231-9186.

25. VT ENGAGE POSTER SHOWCASE – 3rd posting
Are you doing a project in the community that aligns with VT Engage’s core values (see http://engage.vt.edu/about/mission.html)? Individuals or teams of students are invited to submit a poster proposal at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bmvLBnC8U8JELd3 that showcases their work in the areas of service learning, community-engaged learning, community outreach, and group service projects. Proposal submission deadline: Friday, Mar 17. If you submit before the deadline, you will be notified within two weeks of submission whether or not your proposal has been accepted. If you submit on or close to the deadline, you will be notified by Tuesday, Mar 21. Contact VT Engage with questions regarding the event at engage@vt.edu or 540-231-9798.

26. SIGN UP FOR “INTERNATIONAL VOICES” – 3rd posting
The Cranwell International Center is launching International VOICES (Valuable Opportunities for Intercultural Communication, Education, and Sharing) to showcase VT’s global diversity and facilitate opportunities for international students to share their culture, global perspectives, and life experiences with the broader community. International students are matched with campus and community partners who wish to invite speakers for presentations, small group conversations, and panel discussions. The program provides international students with opportunities to: talk to interested audiences; help break down stereotypes and prejudices; improve public-speaking skills; form relationships with people on campus and in the community; contribute to open and accepting campus and community; help prepare global citizens; and add a meaningful experience to their resume. Public-speaking training and support provided as needed. Learn more and sign up at http://international.vt.edu/advocacyandsupport/international-voices-.html. Direct questions to Cranwell Intl Ctr, 540.231.6527 or international@vt.edu <mailto:intenraitonal@vt.edu> .

27. APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR EARLY CAREER DATA SHARE FELLOWSHIP – 3rd posting
The US region of the Research Data Alliance (RDA/US) invites applications from doctoral students and postdocs for its Early Career Data Share fellowship program. Successful Fellows will engage with RDA through carrying out self-proposed projects with RDA groups and through extensive networking and communication with the RDA community. Data Services in VT University Libraries is involved with the RDA and would welcome the opportunity to work with you in support of this fellowship. Contact dataservices@vt.edu <mailto:dataservices@vt.edu>  for assistance. Application deadline: Mar 7. Details and applications:  http://us.rd-alliance.org/2017-2018-rdaus-call-fellows. Posted on behalf of Jonathan Petters, Data Services, University Libraries.

28. GRAD STUDENT WAGE OPENING IN OIRED – 1st posting
The Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is looking for a graduate student (wage) to work up to 20 hours per week on projects and other initiatives, including providing support to project development and efforts to identify and respond to project funding opportunities. The graduate student will contribute to proposal preparation and help with the due diligence and preparation (research) that goes into responses to funding opportunities. S/he will support on-going project work as appropriate. Preference is for a student with experience and/or demonstrated interest in working internationally. If interested, submit resume and cover letter to Patricia S. Hughes at Tish50@vt.edu before Mar 22, 2017.

29. 2017-2018 GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENING – 1st posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking a motivated graduate student who is committed to building graduate community for a GLC Fellow position for the 2017-18 academic year. An ideal candidate would have previous residence life and/or event planning experience, though it is not a requirement. Applicants must submit a formal cover letter and resume, and fully complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_08rf9GDR6uKdG0B. Information about cover letter requirements is detailed in the survey and the full job description is at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate-life-center.html. Apply by midnight on Monday, Mar 13, 2017. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu <mailto:lkeister@vt.edu>  or Sam Harbison at samlh@vt.edu <mailto:samlh@vt.edu>   if you have questions.

30. GA POSITION FOR 2017-18 FOR GRADUATE LIFE CENTER OPERATIONS – 3rd posting
Student Engagement and Campus Life is looking for a full-time graduate student to serve as a Graduate Assistant for GLC Operations. This nine-month position begins in August.  Primary duties include personnel management and supervision of GLC student staff, assisting with daily management of GLC building operations, event services assistance and collaboration with GLC partners. Full position description available at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/content/dam/graduateschool_vt_edu/grad_assistant_graduate_life_center.pdf. To apply, submit a resume and cover letter by Mar 3 to Steve Buchner, Operations Coordinator, satlbuch@vt.edu <mailto:satlbuch@vt.edu> .

31. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR EXPERIENCES OF INTL TEACHING ASSISTANTS AT VT STUDY – 1st posting
VT researchers are conducting a study to understand the experiences of international teaching assistants (ITAs) at VT. You may be eligible to participate if you are a graduate teaching assistant in an engineering department at the university with an F-1 or a J-1 visa. The study involves 2-3 interviews lasting approximately 60-90 minutes each and weekly journal responses taking about 15-30 minutes each. As part of the study, researcher(s) will observe your in-class teaching for 4-5 class periods during Spring 2017. Compensation: $30 to be given in two equal installments, first in the beginning of the study and the second at completion of one month. Contact Ashish Agrawal in Engineering Education, 540-922-5125 or ashishag@vt.edu for more info.

32. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BIOFEEDBACK STUDY – 2nd posting
VT researchers are inviting participants for a research project to gain information from biofeedback collected by galvanic skin response (GSR)* and electroencephalogram (EEG)** sensors while using an information system. Participants will have a headset that has EEG sensors and two finger bands that have GSR sensors to wear while using an information system. The experiment will be recorded by two video cameras. The recorded footage will be used for analyzing participants’ physical movements. Participants will also answer a questionnaire regarding their experience during the experiment. The total amount of time for participation is around 60 minutes. There is no direct benefit from participating in the study. The study will be published and participation is voluntary and confidential. Contact Kibong Song at gibbs@vt.edu for more information.

33. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF AUGMENTED REALITY – 2nd posting
The Information Technology and Security Lab is conducting research on augmented reality and how it can assist cybersecurity professionals and improve the cybersecurity industry. Seeking volunteers 18 or older who are willing to use mobile augmented reality applications to perform investigative tasks and answer questions about their experiences. Tasks involve moving between four buildings and moving throughout the second floor of Newman Library. The entire survey will not take longer than 30 minutes. Volunteers are assured that personal information will remain confidential and will never be published in any way. If interested, contact Brendan Mattina at mbrend15@vt.edu, 603-953-7060.

Upcoming events:

DATA MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Tuesday, Mar 7, 9:00am-4:00pm, Scale-Up Room (101S) Newman Library
This workshop will give attendees practical hands-on experience to improve their research data management by making research datasets FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable).  Following FAIR practices for thoughtful and well-planned research data management can increase project efficiency, smooth the research process, improve the soundness of research results, and maximize the reusability of the data. The workshop is limited to 50 participants, so register today at http://bit.ly/FAIRData.

SPRING BREAK
Saturday-Sunday, Mar 4-12, VT campus
Send your spring break requests and ideas to gibsonm@vt.edu with “what spring break” as your subject line. Graduate School offices will be open with regular hours.

APPALACHIAN “MEET ‘N EAT”
Tuesday, Mar 14, 12:00-1:30pm, American Indian & Indigenous Community Center, Squires ground floor
All who identify as being from Appalachia are welcome to join in the American Indian & Indigenous Community Center for good pizza, good friends and good conversation. The AI&IC Center is located on the ground floor of Squires, to the left of the information desk. Bring a story, memory or object that reminds you of home and share your experiences with other members of the community. For more information, contact grad student Amanda Halliburton (ahallibu@vt.edu).

COVER LETTERS
Tuesday, Mar 14, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room G
Learn how to write a concise, expressive, and attention-grabbing cover letter that will have employers taking notice. Find out how to customize your letter and practice the elements and language needed to land the job you want, regardless of your degree program. Contact grad assistant Natalie Patterson for more information natpat@vt.edu

OPEN MIC NIGHT
Tuesday, Mar 14, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Poets, musicians, storytellers and comedians, and their audience: celebrate Respect Week by sharing a part of your story through your medium of choice! Refreshments will be provided. Hosted by your GLC Fellows. For more information, contact Akhil Infant at akhil91@vt.edu.