Posted on by lbarron

September 8 – 14, 2025

0.   Ongoing Services – updated August 2025    

This Week’s Events: 

  1. DIGITAL SCHOLARSHIP COLLABORATION HOUR – Monday
  2. PHYSICAL SCIENCES FACULTY SEARCH COMMITTEE PANEL – Monday
  3. GET YOUR CAREER PLAN READY: CAREER RESEARCH AND EXPLORATION FOR GRAD STUDENTS – Tuesday
  4. PREPARING FOR THE ACADEMIC JOB MARKET SERIES – Tuesday
  5. FREE WORKSHOP: TIPS & TRICKS FOR LITERATURE REVIEWS IN ENGINEERING – Tuesday
  6. SPANISH FLAMENCO LESSONS – FREE WEEKLY CLASSES! – Tuesday
  7. NAVIGATING ADULTHOOD WITH DR. KEVIN CHENG – Wednesday
  8. FREE WORKSHOP: GETTING STARTED WITH ZOTERO – Wednesday
  9. GEAR UP! CLIFTON STRENGTHS SESSION – Wednesday
  10. GLC CAFÉ – Wednesday only this week
  11. NEW FACULTY HIRE CONVERSATION: KUSH KUMAR YADAV – Wednesday
  12. MUSIC BINGO NIGHT – Wednesday
  13. GRADUATE STUDENT RESOURCE FAIR – Thursday
  14. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT –FREE CHILDCARE, THURSDAY, 9/11, 6:30-8PM – Thursday
  15. VIRTUAL NIGHT-TIME GUIDED MEDITATION WITH VIVEK RAJAN – Thursday
  16. NON-ACADEMIC CAREERS IN HIGHER ED – Friday
  17. VIRTUAL DROP-IN CAREER COACHING FOR GRAD STUDENTS – Friday
  18. DISABILITY ALLIANCE AND CAUCUS MEETINGS – Friday
  19. THE ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION (AASU) WELCOME TO/WELCOME BACK PICNIC – Friday

        Administrative Announcements:   

        1. TAKE THE BIENNIAL VIRGINIA TECH COMMUNITY CHILD CARE NEEDS SURVEY – 1st posting
        2. 2025-2026 BOUCHET GRADUATE HONOR SOCIETY APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN – 1st posting
        3. NEW STUDENT TEAMS BENEFIT: MANAGE UP TO 5 MICROSOFT TEAMS SITES – 1st posting
        4. SIGN UP FOR FALL 2025 HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING WORKSHOPS – 1st posting
        5. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – 1st posting
        6. NOMINATE YOUR FACULTY FOR MENTOR OF THE MONTH – 1st posting
        7. LEADERSHIP GRADUATE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE – 2nd posting
        8. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN A FREE TICKET TO “STEP AFRIKA!” – 2nd posting

        Jobs
        None at this time

        Funding Opportunities:
        None at this time

        Volunteers and research participants sought: 

        1. RECRUITING FOR A PAID RESEARCH STUDY ON USING GESTURES FOR LEARNING – 1st posting
        2. DESIGNING INTELLIGENT INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS FOR STEM INCLUSION BY LEVERAGING SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY TO FOSTER AUTISTIC TALENT IN MANUFACTURING WORK – 1st posting
        3. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON DJING IN YOUNG ADULTS WITH ADHD – 1st posting
        4. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR A USER STUDY ABOUT AI IN CS EDUCATION – 1st posting (1/1)
        5. CALL FOR GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL (GPSS) STUDENT SENATORS – 2nd posting
        6. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON ULTRASOUND IMAGING OF THE BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 2nd posting
        7. CALL FOR SCIENCE WRITERS: FOOD, WATER, COMMUNITIES STORYMAPS – 3rd posting
        8. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR AN EDUCATIONAL AI RESEARCH STUDY – 3rd posting (3/3)

          Upcoming Events:    

          1. COMPS, QUALS, & PRELIMS, OH MY! – September 15
          2. HANDS-ON DIGITIZING TEXTS WITH MACHINE LEARNING AND AI – September 16
          3. BRIDGING CULTURES: BUILDING INTERCULTURAL AWARENESS IN GRADUATE COMMUNITIES – September 16
          4. INTRO TO R AND RSTUDIO – September 18
          5. DEAR UNDERGRAD ME: LESSONS ON GRADUATE SCHOOL – September 18
          6. DEFENSE PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS – September 19
          7. ASEE@VT WELCOME BACK PICNIC – September 19
          8. HOW TO USE ITHENTICATE 101 – September 23
          9. ENTREPALOOZA: THE WHOP EDITION – September 23
          10. FLIP THE FAIR 2025 – September 25
          11. CHILDREN’S WELL-BEING RESOURCE FAIR – September 27
          12. POWER TIES: THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT’S GUIDE TO FINDING A JOB IN THE UNITED STATES – September 30
          13. NAVIGATING DIFFICULT DIALOGUES – September 30
          14. ECEI PARENTING PROGRAM: FINANCIAL AID FUNDAMENTALS – October 15
          15. RESEARCH IMPACT & INTELLIGENCE GRADUATE SCHOOL WORKSHOP SERIES  (Part 1 of 2) – October 15
          16. OMBUDS FORUM: SETTING EXPECTATIONS – OCTOBER 22

               0. Ongoing Services – updated May 2025 

              • GRADUATE SCHOOL: Graduate School hours: In-person advising, drop-off or pick-up of documents and materials, and a space to study and take a break! Visit 120 GLC for walk-in hours, 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday, Phone540 231-8636 or email grads@vt.edu. If you prefer Zoom advising: request one-on-one assistantship or academic advising by using our online request form to set-up a Zoom session.   
              • CAREER ADVISING: schedule a career advising appointment via https://career.vt.edu/job-search/Handshake.html.
              • COOK COUNSELING: Students can call 540-231-6557 to schedule an appointment with the embedded counselor with their program, or other Cook counselors.  
              • FOOD SHARE PANTRY: Located in GLC Wellness Room (Room G). Accessible to graduate students 24/7 byswiping in with your Hokie Passport
              • WRITING CENTER SERVICES: Schedule an appointment at https://vt.mywconline.com/   
              • GRADUATE OMBUDSPERSON: contact for appointment at gradombud@vt.edu, 540-231-9573   

              This Week’s Events   

              1. DIGITAL SCHOLARSHIP COLLABORATION HOUR
              Monday, September 8, 12-1pm, recurring weekly on Mondays, Newman Library 126, Athenaeum Collaboration Room or on Zoom
              Are you working on a digital humanities or digital scholarship project? Are you looking to upgrade your scholarly toolbox? Want to learn more about digital scholarship and media production resources? All are welcome to come chat, collaborate, and work with an interdisciplinary group of scholars with interests in the diverse fields of digital humanities and digital scholarship. Join in person or via Zoom by registering on the Library Events page, https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15043501.  Please reach out with any questions you might have about the collaboration hour or digital humanities and digital scholarship more broadly to dhlibsupport@vt.edu and check out the Digital Humanities Library Guide at https://guides.lib.vt.edu/dh

              2. PHYSICAL SCIENCES FACULTY SEARCH COMMITTEE PANEL
              Monday, September 8, 2:30-4pm, Zoom
              Come hear from Virginia Tech faculty members who have served on faculty search committees in chemistry, physics, and geosciences regarding what they look for when evaluating applicants. Panelists will include:
              1) Adrian Figg, Assistant Professor, Chemistry
              2) Steve Holbrook, Professor and Department Head, Geosciences
              3) Patrick Huber, Professor and Director of the Center for Neutrino Physics, PhysicsRegister here: https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/
              postdoctoral-events-programs/2025/faculty-search-committee-perspectives-panels.html

              3. GET YOUR CAREER PLAN READY: CAREER RESEARCH AND EXPLORATION FOR GRAD STUDENTS
              Tuesday, September 9, 11am-12pm, Zoom
              This workshop is designed for graduate students who want to clarify their current career goals or explore new possibilities. We’ll cover strategies and tools for identifying strengths and values, researching career options, and setting goals. Submitted by Career and Professional Development, faculty member Suzanne Shelburne, sshelbur@vt.edu. Register here: https://vt.joinhandshake.com/events/1778764/share_preview

              4. PREPARING FOR THE ACADEMIC JOB MARKET SERIES
              Tuesday, September 9, 12-1pm, Zoom (series held weekly on Tuesdays from 9/9 through 9/30, 2025)
              This series, organized by the Graduate School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill but open to Virginia Tech graduate students and postdocs, will provide participants with strategies for effective academic job searches and provide guidance on generating effective application materials. The sessions will include opportunities for self-reflection, analysis of example application materials, and opportunities to create or improve one’s own set of materials. https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/2025/preparing-for-the-academic-job-market-series-2025.html

              5. FREE WORKSHOP: TIPS & TRICKS FOR LITERATURE REVIEWS IN ENGINEERING
              Tuesday, September 9, 3:30-4:30pm, Zoom
              You need to write a literature review for your research or project… but how do you get started? What type of review do you need? What about AI tools to save time? We will go through the answers to these questions and more in the workshop! By the end of the workshop, you will learn how to: Get started on your own literature review; Be effective and efficient in searching engineering literature; Use tools to help you throughout the process; Whether you are new to literature reviews or even outside of engineering, all are welcome to attend this workshop! Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/14919932

              6. SPANISH FLAMENCO LESSONS – FREE WEEKLY CLASSES!
              Tuesday, September 9, 5-6:30pm, recurring every Tuesday, War Memorial Gymnasium Dance Room 173
              Come join us every Tuesday at 5 PM for free Flamenco dance classes!
              Graduate students, faculty and members of the Blacksburg/Christiansburg community are welcome to join. No prior dance experience needed! We’ll start with the basics and gradually build on steps as the semester goes on. Olé! RSVP here: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/event/11568357

              7. NAVIGATING ADULTHOOD WITH DR. KEVIN CHENG 
              Wednesday, September 10, 12-1pm, Squires 140 and Zoom
              Navigating Adulthood is a monthly financial wellness program to help build confidence for life during and after college. Through interactive workshops, group discussions, and practical resources, you’ll learn how to budget without the stress, build credit, save with intention, and plan for the future (while still enjoying today). Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your money game, this program will help you feel ready to take on the financial side of adulthood with confidence. Open to all students—because it’s never too early to invest in yourself! https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/o_6-H8ZrQkmFx5JTcKWkSg. Submitted by staff member Anthony Phan aphan25@vt.edu

              8. FREE WORKSHOP: GETTING STARTED WITH ZOTERO
              Wednesday, September 10, 2-3:15pm, Zoom
              Zotero is a free, easy-to-use citation manager that can help researchers save time and frustration. In this workshop, you will learn the basics of Zotero, including adding references to your library, organizing your library, and using Zotero to cite references within a document (both Word and Google Docs). To get the most out of the session, you should have Zotero downloaded to your computer already. Information on how to download the software is available at guides.lib.vt.edu/citationmanagers/Zotero. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/14919935. Submitted by faculty member Lisa Russell lisab5@vt.edu

              9. GEAR UP! CLIFTON STRENGTHS SESSION
              Wednesday, September 10, 2-3:30pm, Gilbert 2101
              Join us for a CliftonStrengths training to determine your leadership and work styles and how to apply them in various collaborative settings. This session is interactive, and is intended to encourage self-reflection around your participation in professional environments. Submitted by staff member Ann Guo (aguo@vt.edu). Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/eXPfmjSuye

              10. GLC CAFÉ
              Wednesday, September 10, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room (Note: No Thursday Café this week. GLC Café will be held only on Wednesday this week. The Graduate Student Resource Fair will replace the Café on Thursday, September 11, 3-5pm, in the GLC MPR – free food and prizes will be available. Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can. If you have any questions, please contact Lindsay Barron (lbarron@vt.edu).

              11. NEW FACULTY HIRE CONVERSATION: KUSH KUMAR YADAV
              Wednesday, September 10, 4-5pm, Zoom
              Kush Kumar Yadav is a new assistant professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the Ohio State University. Yadav has worked extensively in research on zoonotic viruses, including groundbreaking studies on the transmission of hepatitis E virus. He served as a postdoctoral associate at Virginia Tech and received his Ph.D. from the Ohio State University. Register here: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/yRXjx1rsRYiE6sZhsDD-6g

              12. MUSIC BINGO NIGHT
              Wednesday, September 10, 6-7pm, GLC Auditorium
              Come join us for a chill night of music and bingo. We’ll play short clips from popular tracks, and you mark them off if they’re on your card. It’s easy to jump in, and there’ll be free drinks, snacks and prizes. Bring your friends and enjoy the music (or even make new friends there)! RSVP here: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/event/11551186

              13. GRADUATE STUDENT RESOURCE FAIR
              Thursday, September 11, 3-5pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
              Are you interested in free food, free raffle prizes, and free VT resources? Drop in to the Fall Graduate Student Resource fair on September 11th in the GLC! More than 25 VT organizations will be sharing resources for graduate students. Snacks and drinks will be provided as a replacement for GLC Cafe. Also, come play Bingo to win one of many raffle prizes! Submitted by Graduate Student/BOV representative Katie Drinkwater Gregg (kdd20@vt.edu) Click this link for the flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k3FFWBiUYmAXG69GqtgWjhsz2OobaIlS/view?usp=sharing

              14. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT –FREE CHILDCARE, THURSDAY, 9/11, 6:30-8PM
              Thursday, September 11, 6:30-8pm, recurring weekly, VT Women’s Center, 206 Washington Street
              Kids’ Night Out Returns! Free childcare on Thursday evenings at the VT Women’s Center.
              Drop your child off for an evening of playtime and fun with our volunteer sitters, Kids enjoy toys, games, snacks, and maybe a movie!  Sign up in advance bat the link below, spaces are limited, and children must be toilet trained. See sign up form for more info.  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4AAAAC28A31-58491056-kids

              15. VIRTUAL NIGHT-TIME GUIDED MEDITATION WITH VIVEK RAJAN
              Thursday, September 11, 8-9pm, Zoom
              Looking for a way to increase mindfulness and practice self-care? Certified meditation teacher, Vivek Rajan, will facilitate a virtual night-time guided meditation. It is a wonderful way to care for your well-being. This event is open to all but requires prior registration: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/j/85420730447

              16. NON-ACADEMIC CAREERS IN HIGHER ED
              Friday, September 12, 11:30-1:30pm, Black Cultural Center
              This event is meant to expose students to non-academic professions in higher education. Positions like finance, administration, or even program coordination are crucial to the workings of higher education institutions. Students will learn about the diversity of career paths in the field and speak with mentors about their journeys into the professional space. Submitted by staff member Ann Guo aguo@vt.edu. Please register at the link provided. Https

              17. VIRTUAL DROP-IN CAREER COACHING FOR GRAD STUDENTS
              Friday, September 12, 12-1pm, Zoom (recurring every Friday through October 17)
              Have a quick question about your career plans, resume, or job search? Join the virtual career advising session for a brief 5–10-minute chat—no appointment needed! Students will be seen in the order they arrive and may wait in the virtual waiting room until it’s their turn. Zoom link: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/j/81479448779

              18. DISABILITY ALLIANCE AND CAUCUS MEETINGS
              Friday, September 12, 12-1pm, meets weekly on Fridays,Hybrid (Zoom + Newman Library)
              Are you looking for disability community at Virginia Tech? Join DAC! The Disability Alliance (students) and Caucus (employees) meet jointly every Friday from 12pm-1pm on Zoom. We welcome all community members, forms of disability, chronic illness, neurodivergence, self-diagnosis, and allies. Our meetings include community building, social support, and disability activism. Our meetings alternate weeks, with the next General meeting on 9/12 (with a hybrid option in Newman Library) and the next Social meeting on 9/19. Even if you can’t attend meetings, please sign up for emails as this is our primary communication mechanism! Questions? Reach out to our Caucus Co-Chair Juno Bartsch at junob@vt.edu

              19. THE ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION (AASU) WELCOME TO/WELCOME BACK PICNIC
              September 12, 5-7pm, Old Dominion Lawn between Squires and Henderson Hall / APIDA + Center (Rain Location)
              Build community and connect with new and not-so-new folks at the AASU’s Welcome To/Welcome Back Picnic. There will be lawn games, karaoke, and refreshments! Learn about the AASU, its affiliated organizations, and so much more! Come for the food and stay for the community. This event is free and open to all. Submitted by staff member Anthony Phan aphan25@vt.edu

              Administrative Announcements   

              20. TAKE THE BIENNIAL VIRGINIA TECH COMMUNITY CHILD CARE NEEDS SURVEY – 1st posting
              Identifying ways to help Virginia Tech employees and students access quality early child care and education is a priority for the university. As part of our ongoing work to address this important issue, the Early Childhood Education Initiatives team wants to assess the Virginia Tech community’s child care needs. Whether you are faculty or staff, or a graduate or undergraduate student, based anywhere across the Commonwealth of Virginia, take 5-10 minutes to complete a child care survey. Even if you do not use child care, please take a moment to complete the survey by October 8.
              You can access the survey here: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AWQIlZ4vC8

              21. 2025-2026 BOUCHET GRADUATE HONOR SOCIETY APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN – 1st posting
              The Edward Alexander Bouchet Graduate Honor Society (Bouchet Society) recognizes outstanding scholarly achievement and promotes excellence in doctoral education and the professoriate. The Bouchet Society seeks to develop a network of preeminent scholars who exemplify academic and personal excellence, foster environments of support, and serve as examples of scholarship, leadership, character, service, and advocacy for students in the academy. In the spirit of Bouchet’s commitment to these pursuits both within and without the academic realm, inductees into the honor society bearing his name should also exhibit these qualities. The deadline for student applications is 11:59pm on January 15, 2026. For more information and to find the application: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/student-services/bouchet-society.html

              22. NEW STUDENT TEAMS BENEFIT: MANAGE UP TO 5 MICROSOFT TEAMS SITES – 1st posting
              To provide students with resources to collaborate on projects and peer groups, Virginia Tech has introduced the Student Teams Benefit, which allows you to create and keep up to 5 Microsoft Teams sites at a time, each with a storage cap of 1 gigabyte, under your student account. Students who had unclaimed Teams as of June 2 (when access was initially removed) have the opportunity to claim up to five of these to keep between now and Sept. 30. Unclaimed Teams will be deleted after this date. Please refer to the following 4Help article for details and instructions https://4help.vt.edu/sp?id=kb_article&sysparm_article=KB0015970

              23. SIGN UP FOR FALL 2025 HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING WORKSHOPS – 1st posting (1/2)

              Each Friday this fall, Advanced Research Computing (ARC) is offering a series of high-performance computing (HPC) workshops designed to help students, faculty, and research teams of all experience levels enhance their skills in high-performance and data-intensive computing. Sessions are open to all members of the university community and include topics ranging from introductory computing concepts to advanced techniques for HPC. Each Friday workshop will be held via Zoom from noon to 1 p.m. For more information and a complete list of topics, visit: https://news.vt.edu/notices/2025/08/it-arc-fall-workshops.html

              24. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – 1st posting (1/1)
              Connections that Count: The Red Zone. The Red Zone refers to the time at the beginning of the fall semester where over half of all sexual assaults on a college campus occur. Factors that contribute to the Red Zone include: Being in a new setting, Power dynamics in new relationships, Social settings that involve alcohol. Here at Virginia Tech, we believe that everyone deserves safety, dignity, and respect. For more information on resources visit Safe at VT https://safe.vt.edu/.

              25. NOMINATE YOUR FACULTY FOR MENTOR OF THE MONTH – 1st posting (1/2)
              Celebrate a great faculty mentor who has been supportive of your progress toward a graduate degree by nominating them for the Faculty Mentor of the Month recognition. You can nominate advisors, committee members, or other faculty who play a significant role in your graduate experience, either in a single noteworthy instance or through continued and consistent support: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/about/awards/outstanding-mentor-award/Mentor_of_the_Month.html .  Nominations are accepted year-round, and a new winner is selected every month. Winners receive a certificate and a small token of our appreciation and are featured on our website and social media platforms. Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu with questions. 

              26. LEADERSHIP GRADUATE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE – 2nd posting
              Start today to increase your Leadership capabilities! Collaborative Community Leadership and Problem Solving for Leading Change are two certificates in leadership available to all graduate students. Demonstrated competency in leadership is in high demand from prospective employers. By completing a certificate in leadership, you can increase your employability in a wide array of positions. Options for in-person and on-line completion for these certificates exist. For more information see additional links on https://www.alce.vt.edu/student-info/graduate.html. Or contact Dr. Jerald Walz, jhwalz@vt.edu.

              27. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN A FREE TICKET TO “STEP AFRIKA!” – 2nd postingExciting opportunity for graduate students! The Dean’s Cultural Awareness Program (D-CAP) provides graduate students with tickets for performances at the Center for the Arts through a lottery system. This month, the Dean’s Cultural Awareness Program is thrilled to offer free tickets to the upcoming performance of Step Afrika! at the Center for the Arts. Known worldwide as the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, Step Afrika! delivers an electrifying performance that blends percussive dance styles, South African traditions, live drumming, and dynamic storytelling. This event takes place on Saturday, September 27, at 6:30 PM. Students with a valid VT ID randomly selected will receive information on the ticket pick-up location. Only one entry per student per performance. If you have questions, please email grads@vt.edu. Register for a chance to win a free ticket at: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AYic7Z66u9

              Jobs   

              None at this time

              Funding Opportunities:

              None at this time

              Volunteers and Research Participants Sought    

              28. RECRUITING FOR A PAID RESEARCH STUDY ON USING GESTURES FOR LEARNING – 1st posting
              The Mind Music Machine Lab at Virginia Tech is seeking individuals to participate in a study to determine how gestures can improve the acquisition of algorithmic interpretation skills. During this study, participants will: -Complete a demographic survey. -Learn an algorithmic language either with or without accompanying hand gestures over the course of three 30 minute sessions. -Take two tests in a fourth 30 minute session which assesses acquisition of various algorithmic interpretation skills. -Take a short 10 minute semi-structured interview. Compensation of $20 will be given for participating in the four 30 minutes sessions (2 hours total, divided across at least four days).

              29. DESIGNING INTELLIGENT INDUSTRIAL ROBOTS FOR STEM INCLUSION BY LEVERAGING SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY TO FOSTER AUTISTIC TALENT IN MANUFACTURING WORK – 1st posting
              We are conducting a research (NSF) titled “Designing Intelligent Industrial Robots for STEM Inclusion by Leveraging Self-Determination Theory to Foster Autistic Talent in Manufacturing Work”, which aims to understand autistic participants’ perspectives, opinions, and needs regarding the use of future industrial robots to support inclusive manufacturing environments. To participate, please fill out the survey using this link https://tinyurl.com/3n7sjnc5

              30. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON DJING IN YOUNG ADULTS WITH ADHD – 1st posting
              The Embodied Brain Lab (EBL) is conducting a study on DJing in young adults with ADHD (IRB# 24-835)! Eligible participants are aged 18-26 and have an ADHD diagnosis (self-reported and verified during pre-intervention visit). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups where you will either: learn to DJ with Virginia Tech Digging in the Crates OR watch DJ related movies and videos. The study lasts for 4 weeks with 2-hour sessions twice a week. Additionally, there will be a pre- and post-intervention testing at the Embodied Brain Lab where participants will answer a series of questions, play computer games, and have their brain/body recorded. By participating in this study, you could receive up to $100 as compensation as well as a chance to receive AlphaTheta headphones! Please contact Dr. Julia Basso at embodiedbrainlab@gmail.com or fill out the screening form if interested: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf4rLHZiVIagoxjlHD3VZYS15mBSBHpY6-KT2h6Phv7AOnmww/viewform

              31. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR A USER STUDY ABOUT AI IN CS EDUCATION – 1st posting (1/1)
              The study aims to improve the experience of providing programming feedback in large-scale programming courses. Participant will test a tool for viewing students’ code and sending feedback at scale. We are looking for participants who have teaching experience (e.g., instructor, GSI, TA, tutor) and experience in Python. The study session would be in-person in Blacksburg(220 Gilbert). The study will last about 60 mins. Participants will be compensated $25 for their time and effort upon completion of the user study. Participant recruitment survey here: https://forms.gle/nFzHo57rHAHJHCj27

              32. CALL FOR GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL (GPSS) STUDENT SENATORS – 2nd posting
              The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) is looking for students to serve as Senators for 2025–26! They represent the graduate and professional students in their department, share student input, help shape policies, and keep their constituency informed about GPSS events, programs, advocacy efforts and funding opportunities. Each department can send 2 senators. You can be elected/nominated through your Graduate Student Organization (GSO) or nominated directly by your department. If you’re interested, ask your graduate coordinator or GSO president to send your name to (gpss@vt.edu) or fill out the form below. Feel free to reach out to the same email with any questions.
              https://forms.office.com/r/gmwC1u7nWA

              33. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON ULTRASOUND IMAGING OF THE BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 2nd posting
              Our research team is recruiting participants with and without low back pain for a study involving ultrasound imaging of the thoracolumbar fascia (a soft-tissue covering over the top of your muscles) and treatment of low back pain. We are looking for individuals between the ages of 18 and 50 with a BMI under 30, no history of spinal surgery within the past year, and cannot be pregnant or breastfeeding. Some participants may see improvement in pain relief, range of motion, and general body function if enrolled in a treatment group. Some compensation will be provided to participants at study completion. Link to flyer with more information and how to participate:
              https://wanglab.beam.vt.edu/content/dam/wanglab_beam_vt_edu/2025%20TLF%20Flyer%20v6%205-12-25%20Final%20Stamped.pdf

              34. CALL FOR SCIENCE WRITERS: FOOD, WATER, COMMUNITIES STORYMAPS – 3rd posting
              Have a story to share about a community and natural resources? Looking for a science communication opportunity to share said story to a wide audience? The editor of the Food, Water, and Communities blog, sponsored by the VT’s Center for Communicating Sciences, is currently recruiting graduate students to share their stories about a community that has faced a natural resource challenge, and which have inspired their graduate work. Interested writers should email Bria Weisz, bria@vt.edu, by Friday, September 12th with a 3-5 sentence description of their story. If selected, writers will be contacted to contribute a 500-700 word story for the StoryMaps. Open to graduate students at Virginia Tech. For more information and to view previous stories, visit https://arcg.is/10aLCi or email Bria Weisz at bria@vt.edu with any questions.

              34. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR AN EDUCATIONAL AI RESEARCH STUDY – 3rd posting (3/3)
              We are seeking graduate students with teaching experience to participate in a study evaluating different tools for configuring AI tutoring agents. This research aims to understand how educators can effectively set up and validate AI teaching agent to match their pedagogical teaching style. During this study, participants will: Configure an AI tutoring system using different tools/methods. Test their AI configuration to ensure it matches their teaching style. Complete surveys about their experience and confidence in the AI system. Participate in a brief interview about the configuration process. Time commitment: 60-75 minutes via Zoom. Compensation: $25 upon completion. Participant qualifications: Graduate students with teaching experience (TA, instructor, or tutoring experience). To sign up please fill out this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXfd8K6DPyv7NEfNYBhd5joekhOaA-ovfL-4H1W-DNUINx8Q/viewform?usp=dialog, Submitted by graduate student David Barron, dbarron410@vt.edu.

              Upcoming Events   

              35 . COMPS, QUALS, & PRELIMS, OH MY!
              Monday, September 15, 3-4pm, GLC F and virtual (additional monthly sessions offered)
              Students curious about Comprehensive, Qualifying, and Preliminary Exams are invited to join this workshop to receive information on the different formats, tips on how to prepare, and advice from a panel of students who have successfully passed these academic milestones. Virtual and in-person options. Contact the Graduate School at grads@vt.edu if you have any questions. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/45fTzWDXuJ

              36. HANDS-ON DIGITIZING TEXTS WITH MACHINE LEARNING AND AI
              Tuesday, September 16, 9am-12pm, Newman Library 207A
              Are you interested in extracting text from scanned images—even poor-quality images—and learning more about new advances in optical character recognition (OCR)? Join us on Tuesday, 16 September, 9am–12pm for a 3-hour workshop on utilizing machine learning and large language models to programmatically OCR images of text. The workshop will take participants through running Python code in collaborative notebooks to access a variety of tools used to OCR texts, including texts that might be poorly scanned or otherwise difficult to read. This is a participatory workshop, and you will have the opportunity to practice along with the instructors, as well as applying skills in exercises on your own. The workshop is open to all VT community members. Some experience with Python is recommended. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15041273

              37. BRIDGING CULTURES: BUILDING INTERCULTURAL AWARENESS IN GRADUATE COMMUNITIES – Tuesday, September 16, 1-3pm, GLC room B
              Join us for an interactive intercultural learning workshop designed specifically for graduate students. Together, we will create a supportive space to openly explore cultural identities, surface and address misunderstandings, and build skills for navigating challenging conversations with respect and care. Participants will practice asking sensitive questions, deepen awareness of microaggressions, and develop constructive strategies for responding thoughtfully. This workshop is an opportunity to strengthen both self-awareness and graduate community connection. Submitted by staff member William Hutton wdh@vt.edu. Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjeiM8V5QSSkBKrBof5AQL_eJUNzBFMDBTRldBTDZNOEpSTUoxSEtMRVVZMC4u&route=shorturl

              38. INTRO TO R AND RSTUDIO
              Thursday, September 18, 9am-12pm, Zoom
              Interested in improving your data and computing skills for conducting open and reproducible research? Join us for hands-on workshops for data analysis in R on Zoom. The Library is hosting a set of two workshops on getting started with data analysis and visualization in R on 18 and 25 September. You can take the workshops as a series or choose one that best fits your experience and needs. The workshops are open to all VT community members. You do not need any experience with the software to participate, but you will need access to a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15078686

              39. DEAR UNDERGRAD ME: LESSONS ON GRADUATE SCHOOL
              Thursday, September 18, 5-6pm, Black Cultural Center
              This graduate school panel is meant to bring students from all academic levels together to talk about the experience of participating in a graduate degree. Panelists will talk about admissions, writing theses, and research. This session will be an opportunity for graduate students to share the day-to-day of being in academia and the challenges of working in the profession. Submitted by staff member Ann Guo, aguo@vt.edu. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/kVumAvXvyT

              40. DEFENSE PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS 
              Friday, September 19, 10am-12pm, GLC Blacksburg and Virtual
              In-person and virtual location options, additional dates offered throughout the semester. Students defending in Fall 2025 are invited to present a 20-minute practice version of their final defense to a small group of Graduate School staff, other students, and faculty from a variety of programs and receive constructive feedback from them. Those attending the session and providing feedback may or may not know the presenter(s) and may or may not be from a related field or discipline, so feedback is focused less on content and more on presentation structure, clarity, style, coherence, etc.  Spots are limited, so please only register for one date and we will let you know the details once your participation is confirmed. Virtual and in-person options. Contact the Graduate School at grads@vt.edu if you have any questions. Registration: https://forms.office.com/r/jRM4gCf3LR

              41. ASEE@VT WELCOME BACK PICNIC
              Friday, September 19, 4-8pm, Blacksburg Municipal Park, Shelter #4
              ASEE@VT invites all ENGE graduate students to join us for our Welcome Back Picnic on Friday, September 19, at 4:00 PM in Blacksburg Municipal Park, Shelter #4. This event is a chance to celebrate the start of the semester, welcome the new 2025 cohort, and reconnect with friends and colleagues across ENGE. We’ll provide burgers and hot dogs hot off the grill, and we encourage you to bring a side dish, dessert, drinks, or even a game to share. There’s no pressure to bring food—your presence is what matters most—but chips, cookies, or fun activities are always welcome. Please RSVP by September 12 by emailing Jabreel Walker (walkerj24@vt.edu) with your name, number of guests, allergies, and any dish or game you plan to bring. Come hungry, bring your energy, and let’s kick off the year together!

              42. HOW TO USE ITHENTICATE 101
              Tuesday, September 23, 2-3pm & Thursday, September 25, 6pm, Zoom
              This training session focuses on how to use iThenticate, a newly available software system to review the originality of documents, ensure accurate attribution to other authors, and eliminate occurrences of potential plagiarism. We will cover how to: 1. Navigate the iThenticate software; 2. Submit a document for review; 3. Evaluate flagged passages for revision or exclusion. https://profdev.tlos.vt.edu/

              43. ENTREPALOOZA: THE WHOP EDITION
              Tuesday, September 23, 5-8:30pm, Creativity and Innovation District (CID), Community Assembly Hall
              Join us for a two-part mashup event, where big ideas meet big fun. Come for the ice cream, stay for the startups — and launch your own digital business on Whop! RSVP today to secure your spot! Apply to table, if you want to represent your idea/startup. https://tinyurl.com/nne8mcc5

              44. FLIP THE FAIR 2025
              Thursday, September 25, 8am-2pm , Melrose Branch Library, Roanoke, VA
              Join us for Flip the Fair 2025! Flip the Fair is a flipped science fair where graduate students and post-docs present their research science-fair-style on tri-fold poster boards, and 5th graders judge them! Prizes awarded to the best presenters! This year’s event will be held at the Melrose Branch of the Roanoke Public Library on Sept. 25th from 8am-2pm.  As added value, presenters also are given the opportunity for communication skills training at a professional development workshop in preparation for the event.
              Want to participate but don’t have time to do a poster?  Sign up to volunteer at the event instead! We are looking for undergraduates, graduates, post-docs, faculty, and staff to assist at the event. There are several shifts to choose from. Questions? Contact (amandaah@vt.edu).

              45. CHILDREN’S WELL-BEING RESOURCE FAIR
              Saturday, September 27, 9am-12pm, Virginia Tech Media Building Lawn, West Roanoke Street
              Employees and families, and graduate students and families, are invited to the inaugural Children’s Well-being Resource Fair across the street from the Blacksburg Farmers Market on West Roanoke Street. During the event, get free child car seat checks provided by Child Care Aware (www.childcare.virginia.gov); flu shots from Blacksburg Pharmacy for adults and children three years and older who weigh more than 35 pounds; and a visit from the Virginia Tech therapy dogs. 540-231-8878. For more information, contact Hokie Wellness at hokiewellness@vt.edu or by calling 540-231-8878. https://news.vt.edu/notices/2025/09/childrens-well-being-resource-fair.html

              46. POWER TIES: THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT’S GUIDE TO FINDING A JOB IN THE UNITED STATES
              Tuesday, September 30, 3-4pm, Zoom
              Tired of sending out resumes and hearing nothing back? Dan Beaudry, former head of campus recruiting at Monster.com, shares the potent job search system used by many international students to find U.S. employment. H-1Bs are won in ways you likely don’t expect. What you’ll discover in this talk may surprise you. This webinar is being held in partnership with Archer Career, Johns Hopkins University, University of Rochester, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and Virginia Tech’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. Register here: https://evt.to/eooaeioew

              47. NAVIGATING DIFFICULT DIALOGUES
              Tuesday, September 30, 4:30-5:30pm, GLC Room B
              Difficult conversations happen – and they are never easy! Ignoring them may feel less risky, however this can lead to problems in the future. In this interactive session we will discuss starting hard conversations, handling emotions, de-escalation techniques, and practice self-care afterward. While we talk, participants are invited to paint a picture of their choice. Refreshments will also be served. Sponsored by the Graduate School, Graduate Ombudsperson, and Sexual Violence Prevention and Education.  Please register so we know many to plan for: https://forms.office.com/r/9w6Rkt5hJZ.

              48. ECEI PARENTING PROGRAM: FINANCIAL AID FUNDAMENTALS
              Wednesday, October 15, 12-1pm, Zoom
              The Early Childhood Education Initiatives team is partnering with the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid to offer a session, titled “Financial Aid Fundamentals,” led by Megan Schumeyer, Assistant Director of Client Services in Virginia Tech’s Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. This session offers an overview of financial aid and scholarships processes, including practical FAFSA tips and key cost concepts. Attendees will also gain some tips and tricks to successfully navigate the college financial aid process. Submitted by Isabel Valdivia isabelvl@vt.edu.  https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjem90vGMI67FLt7x8RVUEAZFURDU5RDAzNzdWRlVOM1VQWTdENUtLS1QzNS4u&route=shorturl

              49. RESEARCH IMPACT & INTELLIGENCE GRADUATE SCHOOL WORKSHOP SERIES  (Part 1 of 2)
              Wednesday. October 15, 3-5pm, Zoom  (2nd part will be held November 13, 3-5pm)
              This two-part workshop series is designed to foster professional development in graduate students planning to work in research-intensive fields, whether in academia, government, or industry organizations. Graduate students will learn how to make their research more competitive, find funding opportunities, and make their research and themselves more visible and impactful for their graduate careers and beyond. For more information: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/professional-development/professional-development-series.html
              To register for either or both sessions: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjegopL1BGoxVPpxA-NeUMvptUMEZWTVUwQ0VQWTFZSzFEOUkwVEJCSFFUQy4u&route=shorturl

              50. OMBUDS FORUM: SETTING EXPECTATIONS – INTEREST FORM
              Wednesday, October 22, 12pm, location TDB,
              This Ombuds Forum is a community-based space to share common issues affecting graduate students, including funding and financial wellness, advisor relationships and agreements, and interpersonal dynamics. Please fill out the interest form below to indicate your questions and time preferences for this event. https://forms.office.com/r/6AU7Tv9CnR