Posted on by lbarron

October 20-26, 2025

0.   Ongoing Services – updated August 2025    

This Week’s Events: 

  1. WRITING DROP-IN – Monday & Thursday
  2. LET’S LOCK IN – Monday
  3. PREPARING FOR YOUR PROPOSAL AND DISSERTATION DEFENSE  – Monday
  4. ROUNDTABLE OF RESOURCES FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS PARENTS – Tuesday
  5. MANDARIN LANGUAGE LUNCH TABLE – Tuesday
  6. GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING SESSIONS – Tuesday
  7. LEVEL UP: NEGOTIATING FOR GROWTH WHERE YOU ARE –  Tuesday
  8. OMBUDS FORUM: SETTING EXPECTATIONS – Wednesday
  9. ONLINE POSTDOC PANEL- Wednesday
  10. HEALING IS NOT LINEAR – AN SVPE WORKSHOP – Wednesday
  11. GLC CAFÉ –  Wednesday & Thursday
  12. WEAR PURPLE THURSDAY – Thursday
  13. INTRO TO PYTHON FOR DATA ANALYSIS WORKSHOP – Thursday
  14. THE 2025 NUTSHELL GAMES – Thursday
  15. AERA BROWN LECTURE WATCH PARTY: RETHINKING BROWN IN TODAY’S EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE- Thursday
  16. BGSO ARTS & CRAFTS NIGHT – Thursday
  17. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23, 6:30-8 PM – Thursday
  18. TEA AT TWO – CANCELED – Friday

Administrative Announcements:   

  1. SPRING COURSE: GENDER, MIGRATION & PLACE – 1st post
  2. SPRING COURSE: FEMINIST THEORY – 1st posting
  3. SPRING COURSE: GENDER, BODIES & TECHNOLOGY – 1st posting
  4. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – BYSTANDER INTERVENTION – 1st posting
  5. GRADUATE SCHOOL CLOSING AT 2:00pm ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 – 2nd POSTING (2/2)
  6. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GPSS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM – UP TO $500 AVAILABLE FOR CONFERENCE EXPENSES – 2nd posting
  7. STUDENT SPEAKERS NEEDED FOR DECEMBER COMMENCEMENT – 2nd posting
  8. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKETS TO “360 ALLSTARS”  – 2nd posting
  9. NIST PREP PROGRAM – 2nd posting
  10. NIH CAREER SYMPOSIUM – 2nd posting

Jobs:

  1. GA OPPORTUNITY FOR 2025-2026 IN SWITZERLAND – 3rd posting
  2. VT TEACHING FELLOWS – ADJUNCT TEACHING OPPORTUNITY – 3rd posting

Funding Opportunities:

  1. MMUF ADVANCEMENT PROGRAM DISSERTATION GRANT – DEADLINE: DECEMBER 5, 2025
  2. COVES FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM – DEADLINE: DECEMBER 11, 2025
  3. VASG 2026 GRADUATE FELLOWSHIPS – DEADLINE: JANUARY 5, 2026
  4. THE CATHERINE HINMAN MEMORIAL FELLOWSHIP – DEADLINE: JANUARY 9, 2026

Volunteers and research participants sought: 

  1. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: ASSESSMENT AND OPTIMIZATION OF HUMAN PERFORMANCE IN MIXED REALITY ATTACKS – 1st posting
  2. 4 TO 5 1/2 YEAR OLD CHILDREN NEEDED – 1st posting
  3. LOOKING FOR SECOND AND FIFTH GRADERS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE VIRGINIA TECH LEARNING STUDY (IRB #24-1349) – 2nd  posting
  4. 4TH GRADERS NEEDED FOR MATH WORD PROBLEMS STUDY (IRB# 25-565) – 3rd posting
  5. RURAL SOFTWARE ENGINEERING – 3rd posting

Upcoming Events:    

  1. WRITING DROP-IN – October 27 & 30
  2. CONVERSATION WITH JOE DESIMONE – ENTREPRENEURSHIP, CAREER PATHS & RELATED TOPICS – October 27
  3. 9th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHT – October 29
  4. LEARN, PLAY, AND KEEP C.A.L.M.: AN ACCESSIBILITY BINGO QUEST – October 30
  5. PUMPKINPALOOZA – October 30
  6. SCIENCE ON TAP NEW RIVER VALLEY PRESENTS: THE ANCESTRY OF CANCER: TRACING HOW CANCER EVOLVES – October 30
  7. GPSS SCARY MOVIE NIGHT! – November 1
  8. ETD FORMATTING TIPS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – November 3
  9. ABSTRACT DEADLINE FOR 2026 GRADUATE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AT WILLIAM & MARY – November 11
  10. SWIPE RIGHT: DECODING THE AMERICAN DATING SCENE – November 11
  11. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT – November 18

     
    0. Ongoing Services – updated October 2025 
  1. WRITING DROP-IN
    Monday, October 20 & Thursday, October 23, 9am-4pm, GLC Room C
    Need a flexible writing space? Drop in during open hours to work at your own pace in a quiet, supportive environment— no registration required! Snacks and coffee will be provided during all sessions. Drop-in sessions held most Mondays and Thursdays of the fall semester. For more information or to view the complete schedule, visit: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/professional-development/professional-development-series.html

2.  LET’S LOCK IN
Monday, October 20, 4-6pm, recurs every Monday through the semester, APIDA + Center (Squires 140) 
Looking for a weekly boost to stay on track with your classes? Let’s Lock In meets once a week – every Monday – to give you a dedicated time and space to focus, get support, and make real progress. Join other students in a relaxed, productive environment where tutors are on hand to help with coursework, and other campus resources are just a step away. Think of it like study hall, but better: whether you’re tackling tough assignments, prepping for exams, or just trying to stay organized, Let’s Lock In is here to support. Drop in, get focused, and leave feeling accomplished. This event is open to all.

3. PREPARING FOR YOUR PROPOSAL AND DISSERTATION DEFENSE
Monday, October 20, 5:30-7pm, Zoom
“Preparing for Your Proposal and Dissertation Defense: Don’t Just Get Ready, BE Ready”
with Dr. Wendy Carter-Veale, Founder PhD Completion.com
Every graduate student knows the defense is a major milestone—but what many don’t realize is that your preparation starts long before the final year. Whether you’re approaching your proposal defense or anticipating the dissertation defense, knowing what to expect (and what’s really expected of you) makes all the difference. Join us for a straight-talk, behind-the-scenes workshop that takes the mystery out of both proposal and dissertation defenses. This workshop especially helps first-year graduate students begin their programs with clarity, strategy, and confidence. Registration Link: https://forms.office.com/r/aa6XNYv4NN

4. ROUNDTABLE OF RESOURCES FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS PARENTS
Tuesday, October 21, 12-1:15 pm, Zoom
The Early Childhood Education Initiatives team will host a virtual roundtable by Zoom with Faculty Affairs, Hokie Wellness, Human Resources, and faculty and staff representatives who will share information and answer questions about resources for parents working and studying at Virginia Tech. All graduate students who are parents are welcomed to join!. Registration required. https://forms.office.com/r/ukm3FZymw8

5. MANDARIN LANGUAGE LUNCH TABLE
Tuesday, October 21, 12:30 -1:30pm, APIDA + Center (Squires 140)
Join us for the Mandarin Chinese Lunch Table at the APIDA + Center! Open to all, this informal gathering is for undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, and community members interested in chatting in Mandarin Chinese during lunch time. Boost your communication skills, connect with others, and bring your own lunch for a friendly language experience. These sessions will be led by Dr. Helen Schneider from the History Department.

6. GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING SESSIONS
Tuesday, October 21, 4-5pm and Friday, October 24, 9am-10am, Zoom
The Graduate Honor System relies on trained graduate student and faculty panelists who review academic integrity violations and determine the outcome of GHS cases. To be eligible, you need to be a graduate student in good academic standing. Training takes approximately one hour and after that you serve on panels as you are available. Please complete this registration form to indicate your interest attending: https://forms.office.com/r/1DC1Egbm1D.  Zoom 10/21: 89531184685 and on 10/24 Zoom: 83151775405

7. LEVEL UP: NEGOTIATING FOR GROWTH WHERE YOU ARE
Tuesday, October 21, 5-6pm, Zoom
Think negotiation only happens with new job offers? Think again. This workshop will help you identify opportunities for internal negotiation—whether it’s a raise, promotion, or new responsibilities. Learn how to make your case and advocate for your growth within your current organization with confidence. https://vt.joinhandshake.com/events/1821966/share_preview

8. OMBUDS FORUM: NAVIGATING EXPECTATIONS AS A GRADUATE STUDENT
Wednesday, October 22, 4-5:30pm, GLC Room F
Figuring out strategies for effective working relationships in graduate school is critical to ensuring your success and well-being. This confidential forum with the Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) and the Graduate School Ombuds is designed to bring students together to discuss approaches and challenges in navigating their graduate experience. From establishing advisor agreements, to dealing with microaggressions, and even balancing the difficulty of academics and life responsibilities, join us to discuss ways to manage your graduate career while maintaining healthy dynamics with your mentors and peers. If you are an individual with a disability and desire on accommodation, please email aguo@vt.edu. Free food available while supplies last! Please register at link provided: https://forms.office.com/r/igYGesf0h6

9. ONLINE POSTDOC PANEL
Wednesday, October 22, 12-1:30pm, Zoom
Come hear from postdocs working in a variety of programs and institutions to learn more about the breadth of postdoctoral opportunities available to Ph.D.’s. Our panelists will include a National Lab postdoc, postdoc building their own start-up company, and postdocs in two distinct Fellowship programs. https://bit.ly/oct-22-2025-postdoc-panel

10. HEALING IS NOT LINEAR – AN SVPE WORKSHOP
Wednesday, October 22, 2-4pm, APIDA + Center (Squires 140)
Join us for Healing Is Not Linear, an interactive embroidery workshop that explores creativity as a path toward healing. Guided by the Sexual Violence Prevention Education Office, this event offers a supportive space to reflect, stitch, and share in community. No embroidery experience is needed—just bring yourself and an open heart as we honor the unique, non-linear journey of healing. Sponsored by the Sexual Violence Prevention Education office, APIDA + Center, and FASA.

11. GLC CAFÉ
Wednesday, October 22 & Thursday, October 16, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room
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.
Thursday Only – 3rd annual Mocktoberfest Café. Sample, ginger beer, root beer, non-alcoholic beers and German treats in the GLC Café’s version of Oktoberfest If you have any questions, please contact Lindsay Barron (lbarron@vt.edu).

12. WEAR PURPLE THURSDAY
Thursday, October 23, All day, Where ever you are
As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, join the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education in showing support to survivors and victims of domestic violence by wearing purple! Take a picture and tag us on Instagram at SVPE_VT!

13. INTRO TO PYTHON FOR DATA ANALYSIS WORKSHOP 
Thursday, October 23, 9am-12pm, recurs once the following week, 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 Python on Zoom. The Library is hosting a set of two workshops on getting started with data analysis and reproducible research in Python on 23 and 30 October. 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 Python to participate. https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15079044

14. THE 2025 NUTSHELL GAMES
Thursday, October 23, 5:30-6pm, Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech
Join the Center for Communicating Science on October 23rd at 5:30 p.m. for the 10th ever Nutshell Games! In this fun, fast-paced event, graduate students will compete for prizes by explaining their research in just 90 seconds! The event is free and open to the public, and will be held in the Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact cjkroehl@vt.edu at least ten days before the event. https://communicatingscience.isce.vt.edu/css-events/upcoming-events/2025-nutshell-games.html

15. AERA BROWN LECTURE WATCH PARTY: RETHINKING BROWN IN TODAY’S EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE
Thursday, October 23, 6-7pm, Litton-Reaves room 232
Join the ALCE Graduate Student Council for a livestream of the 22nd Annual AERA Brown Lecture in Education Research, “Rethinking Brown When Diversity and Equity Are Imperiled and Democracy Is Fragile.” Delivered by Dr. James A. Banks, Professor Emeritus at the University of Washington and a leading scholar in multicultural education, the lecture examines the enduring impact of Brown v. Board of Education and current challenges to equity and democracy in education. The watch party will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Litton Reaves Room 232. Light refreshments provided. RSVP here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/j7nwktPYPz. For more information: https://www.aera.net/Events-Meetings/2025-Brown-Lecture-In-Education-Research

16. BGSO ARTS & CRAFTS NIGHT

Thursday, October 23, 6-8pm, GLC meeting room B

We are hosting our first GBM of the semester. Come paint, listen to music, and get to know graduate students across multiple departments. Light Refreshments provided.

17. FREE CHILDCARE–KIDS’ NIGHT OUT, THURSDAY 10/23, 6:30-8PM

Thursday, October 23, 6:30-8pm, recurring weekly, VT Women’s Center, 206 Washington Street

Free childcare for graduate student families at the VT Women’s Center, 6:30-8:00 on Thursday evenings when classes are in session. Advance sign-up is required, and there are limited spaces. Childcare provided by volunteers from the Chi Delta Alpha sorority, and children must be toilet trained. There will be games, crafts, snacks, maybe a movie, and fun with the sitters! A sign up link will be available each week on the Women’s Center webpage (womenscenter.vt.edu) on Monday afternoons, and in this newsletter. For additional info or questions, please contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu  
Event will take place at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the back of the parking lot.  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4AAAAC28A31-59740359-kids

18. TEA AT TWO – CANCELED
Friday, October 24, 2pm,
Tea at two will not be held this week.

Administrative Announcements   

19. SPRING COURSE: WGS 5424 GENDER, MIGRATION & PLACE – 1st posting

WGS 5424 (no prereq) meets W from 5:00 pm – 7:40 pm.

How does migration reconfigure identity across time and place? This Women’s and Gender Studies grad seminar requires no prereq and features engaging discussions, collaborative learning and a focus on social justice. Submitted by faculty member Bonnie Zare bonzare@vt.edu

20. SPRING COURSE: FEMINIST THEORY – 1st posting

WGS 5914 Feminist Theory (no prereq) meets M from 4pm – 6:50pm. Our selected readings track current developments in feminist scholarship along some of the field’s most well-known interventions, such as Black feminism, women of color feminism, disability feminism, and Marxist feminism. Paying particular attention to citation practices and the field’s intellectual trends and trajectories (as well as contestations and confrontations), we’ll ask ourselves, what types of knowledge, archives, value, and political formations do feminist arguments generate? Submitted by faculty member Bonnie Zare bonzare@vt.edu

21.SPRING COURSE: GENDER, BODIES & TECHNOLOGY – 1st posting

Spring course WGS / STS 5134 Gender, Bodies, and Technology (no prereq)
Wednesdays from 1:00-3:45This graduate course explores the intersections of gender, bodies, and technologies in multiple contexts and across disciplines. Feminist and queer theories of technoscience will be used to discuss the impact of technologies on gendered bodies, technology in individual lives, and the gendered discourses surrounding bodies and technologies. Submitted by faculty member Bonnie Zare bonzare@vt.edu

22. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – BYSTANDER INTERVENTION – 1st posting

Connections that Count: Bystander Intervention  Brought to you by the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE) Have you ever seen a situation that didn’t seem right? Did you intervene? Were you unsure of how to intervene? When bystander intervene, they have the power to change a situation for the better. There is not a one size fits all way of intervening. Instead, finding ways to intervene that feel comfortable to you is important. Use the CARE Model to help you find ways to safely intervene:  C reate a distraction; A sk directly; R efer to shared values; E nlist others
Intervening with CARE allows you to intervene in discrete ways where the person may not even know you are trying to diffuse the situation.

23. GRADUATE SCHOOL CLOSING AT 2:00pm ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 – 2nd POSTING (2/2)
From: The Office of the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost. Virginia Tech will host a nationally televised football game on the evening of Friday, Oct. 24, against California. Administrative offices and non-instructional university offices will close at 2 p.m. in Blacksburg.
https://news.vt.edu/notices/2025/09/virginia-tech-to-host-home-football-game-on-friday-evening–oct-.html?utm_source=cmpgn_news&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=vtUnirelNewsDailyCMP_oct1325-fs

24. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GPSS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM – UP TO $500 AVAILABLE FOR CONFERENCE EXPENSES – 2nd posting
Graduate students presenting research conducted at Virginia Tech are eligible to apply for the Winter 2026 Travel Fund Program! Grants may cover registration, lodging, meals, abstract fees and other costs of presenting at an in-person or virtual conference with a start date from Jan. 1- March 31. Students from all disciplines are invited to apply, even if your conference abstract has not been officially accepted. Applications due November 10th at 11:59 PM. Please e-mail Megan Grey at greym@vt.edu with any questions, and visit https://gpss.vt.edu/programs/tfp.html for full details and instructions.

25. STUDENT SPEAKERS NEEDED FOR DECEMBER COMMENCEMENT – 2nd posting (2/2)
The Graduate School is seeking 1-2 graduate student speakers for the Fall 2025 Graduate Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 19, 2:30pm, at Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg, Virginia. The speeches are modeled after the talks at the Center for Communicating Science’s Nutshell Games, with individual speeches lasting about 90 seconds. Student speakers share a brief experience of their own that depicts graduate student life as they experience(d) it. Student speakers must be a master’s or Ph.D. student whom is planning on participating in graduation this semester, fall 2025. Students at all campuses may apply; speakers must give their speech in-person in Blacksburg at commencement on December 19, 2025.If you are interested in being considered for this role, please complete this form by Friday, October 24, 2025: https://forms.office.com/r/apuQYummSr.

26. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKETS TO “360 ALLSTARS”  – 2nd posting
Get ready for 360 ALLSTARS—a phenomenal physical performance that explodes with energy and creativity. Blending street culture with elite talent, this urban circus features world-champion athletes and award-winning artists in breakdancing, BMX biking, basketball, acrobatics, beatboxing, and more. Limited tickets are available exclusively for graduate students, with special EXTRA tickets for your children. This event takes place on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, 7:30 PM at Center for the Arts, 190 Alumni Mall, Blacksburg.
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/allstars

27. NIST PREP PROGRAM – 2nd posting
The NIH Career Symposium is a virtual event highlighting the diversity of career choices available to biomedical researchers. This event provides career exploration and networking opportunities for graduate students, postdocs, and fellows in the NIH Intramural Research Program. Graduate students and postdocs from outside the NIH are also welcome to attend. Whether you’re a graduate student, a postdoc, clinical fellow, or a senior student looking for a job, this event will help you explore your career options. Come to hear from professionals and peers and learn strategies for navigating the job search process. https://sura.org/programs/nist-prep-2/

28. NIH CAREER SYMPOSIUM – 2nd posting
The NIH Career Symposium is a virtual event highlighting the diversity of career choices available to biomedical researchers. This event provides career exploration and networking opportunities for graduate students, postdocs, and fellows in the NIH Intramural Research Program. Graduate students and postdocs from outside the NIH are also welcome to attend. Whether you’re a graduate student, a postdoc, clinical fellow, or a senior student looking for a job, this event will help you explore your career options. Come to hear from professionals and peers and learn strategies for navigating the job search process. https://www.training.nih.gov/me/cs/

Jobs   

29. GA OPPORTUNITY FOR 2025-2026 IN SWITZERLAND – 3rd  posting
The GA serves as an on-call member of the larger team in collaboration with the SLC at least one weekend a month for the duration of the term when students are in residence; communicates regularly with Steger Center Student Life Leadership team to ensure efforts are aligned to support the student living-learning experience; assists Steger Center students navigating life abroad, while also working with them to understand and ease the effects of “culture shock” plus much more. The Steger Center Graduate Assistant (GA) provides academic and program support to faculty and students at the Steger Center for International Scholarship in Riva San Vitale,  Switzerland. Applicants must have a BA or BS from VT completed by June 2026; must have completed a semester or month-long summer study abroad program during their undergraduate experience at VT; must be enrolled in a graduate program at VT that will allow the student to spend the year at the Steger Center. Application deadline: December 1, 2025. For more information and instructions on how to apply:  https://virginiatech-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/jpenven_vt_edu/EWEiYyUbio1DuP5zf6yWQFMBqVCVFOTvaYYUuBMyYk2UcA?xsdata=MDV8MDJ8bGtlaXN0ZXJAdnQuZWR1fDFjYTNlZDljOGQ4NDQ3MDA5NTBjMDhkZTAwMjEyYWM2fDYwOTU2ODg0MTBhZDQwZmE4NjNkNGYzMmMxZTNhMzdhfDB8MHw2Mzg5NDgzMzk2MDM2NTQ1MTl8VW5rbm93bnxUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpGYlhCMGVVMWhjR2tpT25SeWRXVXNJbFlpT2lJd0xqQXVNREF3TUNJc0lsQWlPaUpYYVc0ek1pSXNJa0ZPSWpvaVRXRnBiQ0lzSWxkVUlqb3lmUT09fDB8fHw%3d&sdata=dzdXS1R1ck5rTzU1MlM5VU9NdFFrUksyQ2lQcmszRzFCTG9aNFlsSDdZVT0%3d

30. VT TEACHING FELLOWS – ADJUNCT TEACHING OPPORTUNITY – 3rd posting
Do your career plans potentially include teaching? The Virginia Tech Teaching Fellows Program is gearing up for Spring 2026! This program offers VT graduate students (master’s or doctoral) the opportunity to be credentialed Adjunct Faculty at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). 1-on-1 coaching is provided for those accepted into the program. This opportunity is open to domestic or international students with at least 18 graduate credit hours in the teaching discipline (note: dissertation/research credits do not apply). Teaching will be either in-person or virtual, depending on the student’s location, and available positions will align with NOVA’s discipline needs. Want to learn more? Attend an online information session October 15 or October 21 at 7 pm. Please register to receive the Zoom link: https://forms.office.com/r/6DCfHsJr5b.

Funding Opportunities:

31. MMUF ADVANCEMENT PROGRAM DISSERTATION GRANT – DEADLINE: DECEMBER 5, 2025
The MMUF Dissertation Grants are available to doctoral students who participated in the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship Program. The awards provide doctoral students at the critical juncture of completing their degrees with support to spend a year finishing the writing of the dissertation. This award is funded by the Mellon Foundation.Award: up to $30,000. Deadline: December 5, 2025. https://citizensandscholars.org/mellon-programs-grants/mmuf-dissertation-grant/?utm_source=Fellowship+Alert&utm_campaign=30aeca258e-2026+MMUF+Dissertation+Reminder+1+%7C+Oct+2025&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_a5e043b254-30aeca258e-380971373

32. COVES FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM – DEADLINE: DECEMBER 11, 2025
Interested graduate students may apply for the Commonwealth of Virginia Engineering and Science (COVES) summer fellowship until December 11, 2025. The COVES Fellowship is a 12-week full-time summer fellowship program (May 17-August 6) operated by the Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine (the Academy) and open to STEM graduate students. According to the Academy, the aim of the program is to strengthen ties between the scientific community and Virginia’s state government, and to encourage and train more scientists and engineers to be effective advisors for public policy and programs in the Commonwealth. During the program, fellows will receive training in science policy and science communication, spend time in legislative offices, executive agencies, companies, or nonprofits in the state, and will be paired with an Academy mentor and involved in briefings, meetings, and the Academy’s annual summit in August. The program begins with a week-long boot camp on science policy, governance, and policy-making in Virginia. Thereafter, fellows spend their time with the entity with which they are matched, and are also paired with a mentor. The program includes a stipend. The Graduate School will submit five finalists for the fellowship program to the Academy, which will then choose one to represent the university in the program. To learn more about the program and to access the application materials, visit the COVES Fellowship webpage on the Graduate School website, https://graduateschool.vt.edu/funding/funding-sponsored-by-the-graduate-school.html

33. VASG 2026 GRADUATE FELLOWSHIPS – DEADLINE: JANUARY 5, 2026. The VASG Graduate Fellowship invests in people and supports graduate students in research, education, evidence-based inquiry, and community engagement that further the goals of VASG. Graduate Fellows address issues relevant to Virginia communities and of importance to coastal and marine resources – broadly defined (e.g., natural or social sciences, engineering and design, policy and legal analysis, architecture, business, education, arts and humanities, etc.). The fellowship builds skills and competencies through professional development training and provides hands-on experience in translating research results to stakeholders through a professional mentor. Important Dates: Final applications are due January 5, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST, and the fellowship begins September 1, 2026. Learn more and apply here: https://vaseagrant.org/graduate-fellowships/

34. THE CATHERINE HINMAN MEMORIAL FELLOWSHIP – DEADLINE: JANUARY 9, 2026
A  fully funded program that enables talented students who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to experience a summer in Washington, DC. Entering its fourth year in 2026, the Fellowship is open to graduate students with backgrounds in public policy, economics, applied sciences, and international affairs who have little or no prior experience working and living in Washington.  Silverado helps these students gain practical professional experience and build a Washington network. Fellows develop technical writing and research skills, become immersed in federal and international policy-making, and sow seeds for career growth.Fellowship benefits include: 

  • Covered round-trip transportation from anywhere in the U.S.
  • Fully furnished housing for the duration of the program
  • Extensive professional development, including seminars and networking events with experts from government, nonprofits, industry, and academia
  • $5,000 stipend

Applications open on October 14th, 2025, will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting November 30th, until the close on January 9th, 2026. For more information: https://silverado.org/hinmanfellowship/

Volunteers and Research Participants Sought    

35. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: ASSESSMENT AND OPTIMIZATION OF HUMAN PERFORMANCE IN MIXED REALITY ATTACKS – 1st posting
3DI Group at Virginia Tech is working on a project to mitigate the effect of cognitive attacks on Mixed Reality (MR) systems with the Department of Defense. MR systems are see-through eyeglasses that enable text, symbols and other graphics to be overlaid onto the user’s view of the real world. We will give you $20 OR volunteer hour credit for a 90-minute session. If you would like to participate, complete the following form to proceed with the pre-screening and scheduling process: https://forms.office.com/r/5DeU7ggfQU

36. 4 TO 5 1/2 YEAR OLD CHILDREN NEEDED – 1st posting
We are looking for English-speaking parents and their children ages 4 to 5 ½ years old who have not yet started kindergarten to participate in the Virginia Tech Preschool Perpendicularity Study (IRB #25-542). Study participation involves a 45-minute visit to our lab on the Blacksburg campus of Virginia Tech. Participants will be compensated with a $20 Amazon gift card upon completion of the visit. Participant qualifications: Children must not have started kindergarten and must be between ages 4 to 5 1/2. Children and their parents must speak English. Compensation $20 Amazon gift card. Details are in the attached flier (“Perpendicularity Study Flyer”). Parents can fill out this interest form to learn more: http://bit.ly/Perpendicularity

37. LOOKING FOR SECOND AND FIFTH GRADERS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE VIRGINIA TECH LEARNING STUDY (IRB #24-1349) – 2nd posting
Participants needed for Virginia Tech Human Development and Family Science study (IRB # 24-1349). This research is to learn more about second and fifth graders’ literacy, math, self-regulation, executive function skills, how those skills are related to each other, as well as the role stress plays in the development of those skills, so educators and/or parents can better support children’s development and literacy and math learning. Eligible individuals will participate in one 60-minute in-person video recorded session either on the Virginia Tech Blacksburg campus, their home, or in Roanoke. Participant qualifications Parents/guardians of a second or fifth grader during the 2025 fall and their children, both able to speak and read English. Compensation: $20 upon completion of an in-person session and surveys. Interest form: https://bit.ly/VTLearningStudy.

38. 4TH GRADERS NEEDED FOR MATH WORD PROBLEMS STUDY (IRB# 25-565) – 2nd posting
Your 4th grader can help us understand how children solve word problems! This fall, researchers in the VT Learning and Development Lab are looking for 4th graders and their parents to participate in a Virginia Tech research study (IRB #25-565). Participation involves one 60-minute video-recorded session, either on the Blacksburg campus or in community-based locations in Floyd or Roanoke. Children will complete word problems and other math and reading activities. Parents and children must speak and read English in order to participate. Compensation of $20 cash; children will also receive prizes during the session. Parents complete a brief questionnaire, lasting about 15 minutes. If you are interested, please fill out this form: www.bit.ly/VTMathStudy

39. RURAL SOFTWARE ENGINEERING – 3rd  posting
This study is to better understand the experiences of software professionals working and/or living in different geographic contexts, including both rural and urban areas. Participant qualifications: Current or used to be software professionals. Compensation: Participants will be entered into a raffle to win one of ten $25 online gift cards. Survey link: Survey link: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/Aaih0Z6iWL

Upcoming Events   

40. WRITING DROP-IN
Monday, October 27 & Thursday, October 30, 9am-4pm, GLC Room C
Need a flexible writing space? Drop in during open hours to work at your own pace in a quiet, supportive environment— no registration required! Snacks and coffee will be provided during all sessions. https://graduateschool.vt.edu/professional-development/professional-development-series.html

41. CONVERSATION WITH JOE DESIMONE – ENTREPRENEURSHIP, CAREER PATHS & RELATED TOPICS
Monday, October 27, 10am-11am, RSVP to jorzolek@vt.edu get location
On behalf of the College of Science, the Graduate School, and the Office of Research and Innovation, I’m delighted to invite you to a small-group conversation with Dr. Joe DeSimone (Ph.D. ’90, Chemistry; member of NAS, NAM, NAE, AAAS) on Monday, October 27, 2025, 10:00–10:50 a.m. The discussion will focus on entrepreneurship, career paths in academia and industry, and related topics. That evening, Dr. DeSimone will deliver the public J. Mark Sowers Distinguished Lecture (open to the public), “Lessons from the Lab and the Boardroom: A Hokie’s Journey in Science, Engineering, and Entrepreneurship.”
This informal morning session offers graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from across campus to engage directly with Joe, hear his perspectives, and learn from his experiences. RSVP to Jenny Orzolek at jorzolek@vt.edu by Wednesday, October 22

42. 9th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHT
Wednesday, October 29, 5-9pm, The Boeing Auditorium at Virginia Tech AB1
Celebrate culture, community, and togetherness at Virginia Tech’s 9th Annual International Festival of Light. Admission is FREE and open to all students, faculty, alumni, and guests. Enjoy an authentic Indian food buffet, lively dance, music, and performances, and take part in our raffle (tickets sold separately) for a chance to win prizes.
Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Boeing Auditorium, VT AB1, 3625 Potomac Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305
RSVP by October 25, 2025 here: https://forms.gle/yAx1butXE6pyoeaZ6
Contact for details: Dr. Khan mahmood@vt.edu  or Niha email: niharikaadh01@vt.edu

43. LEARN, PLAY, AND KEEP C.A.L.M.: AN ACCESSIBILITY BINGO QUEST
Thursday, October 30, 2-3pm, University Mall 2104 (801 University Blvd)
Want to have fun while sharpening your accessibility skills? Join us for an interactive workshop designed to help participants explore and apply the best practices of the Choose Accessible Learning Materials (C.A.L.M.) campaigns to create more accessible digital content. The session kicks off with a group scavenger hunt that challenges you to explore accessibility best practices. As you hunt, you’ll uncover examples and best practices that align with each of the C.A.L.M. campaigns. These discoveries become your keys to effectively playing C.A.L.M. BINGO. Whether you’re new to digital accessibility or looking to deepen your knowledge in an energizing environment, this session will leave you equipped with practical strategies and a deeper understanding of how small steps can have BIG impact. https://profdev.tlos.vt.edu/browse/inclusivepractices/courses/tlos-at84-103025

44. PUMPKINPALOOZA
Thursday, October 30, 3-5pm, GLC Lawn
Join fellow graduate students for a fun afternoon of pumpkin painting and carving. Pumpkins and  supplies will be provided as well as light refreshments. This event is sponsored by the Graduate School and Cranwell International Center. Sign up here:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjepevaFUBOatNi_cyklXTkCBUMkpKQVNRSDlJTTFVNEVNSFE0NlQ3TTFPUi4u

45. SCIENCE ON TAP NEW RIVER VALLEY PRESENTS: THE ANCESTRY OF CANCER: TRACING HOW CANCER EVOLVES
Thursday, October 30, 5:30pm, Rising Silo Brewery
Cancer isn’t a single disease—it’s a process of evolution happening within our bodies. In this talk, Palash Sashittal, assistant professor in Virginia Tech’s Department of Computer Science, will share how researchers trace the evolutionary history of cancer to understand how tumors grow, adapt, and resist treatment. In a hands-on dice-based game, we will see evolution in action—watching how genetic changes accumulate over time—and try to reconstruct ancestral genomes using the same reasoning scientists use to uncover cancer’s evolutionary history.

46. GPSS SCARY MOVIE NIGHT!
Saturday, November 1, 7-9pm, GLC Graduate TV Lounge
Bring your student ID and join us for a spooky movie night with free treats and great company! Enjoy free popcorn, chips, cookies, and drinks—plus plenty of scares to keep the Halloween spirit alive. Enter our raffle for a chance to win FREE movie passes! RSVP here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/dAY24ZG0X3

47. ETD FORMATTING TIPS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
Monday, November 3, 7-8pm, Zoom
We’ll discuss potential ideas and strategies for formatting and structuring your Electronic Thesis or Dissertation (ETD) so that you can submit it after your defense and best meet Graduate School formatting guidelines. This presentation is aimed at students in the early stages of writing their thesis or dissertation but is relevant to students at any stage of the process. Zoom link: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/j/88385068121 

48. ABSTRACT DEADLINE FOR 2026 GRADUATE RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AT WILLIAM & MARY
Wednesday, November 11, 11:59pm, online Abstract Submission Portal
Calling all master’s and doctoral scholars in the humanities, humanistic social sciences, and natural, physical, and computational sciences: join fellow graduate students from across the country to showcase your research at William & Mary’s Graduate Research Symposium, February 26-27, 2026, in Williamsburg. Use the Abstract Submission Portal to send in an abstract for a talk or poster session (deadline November 5, 2025). See the ‘Submitting an Abstract’ page for everything you need to know before you submit. There are no registration fees this year, so you’ll just need to cover travel expenses. If your abstract is accepted, you’ll have the chance to submit a paper to compete for awards recognizing excellence in research in the Visiting Scholars category. For more information: https://www.wm.edu/offices/graduate-center/graduate-symposium/upcoming/  Abstract submission portal: https://wmsas.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_880q3iutJcV6Zf0 Questions? Email us at: grs@wm.edu.

49. SWIPE RIGHT: DECODING THE AMERICAN DATING SCENE
Tuesday, November 11, 4:45-6pm, Physical : AB1-5100; Virtual: Zoom
Dating norms vary widely around the world—dating can be confusing, fast-paced, or even contradictory. Dating in America is a rule, not an exception to the notion. This program, presented by the Sexual Violence Prevention and Education team, is designed for international students who want to better understand how dating works in the U.S., including communication styles, consent, expectations, online dating, and cultural attitudes toward relationships. We’ll break down common scenarios, answer your questions, and create space for an open and respectful discussion about love, identity, and culture. https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/event/11412026

50 . ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT
Tuesday, November 18, 9am-4pm, Graduate Life Center
Designed for graduate students in a writing phase at any level!
This series offers a variety of structured and flexible sessions to support your writing journey. Whether you’re seeking a structured writing period, a focused environment, or the freedom to drop in as needed, our offerings cater to diverse needs. From facilitated workshops and Pomodoro sessions to quiet, open writing spaces, this series allows you to develop skills, boost productivity, and bring your ideas to life. Embrace the chance to write, connect, and grow in a community dedicated to creative and academic excellence, to learn more visit: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/professional-development/professional-development-series.html. To register for this session: https://forms.office.com/r/RC9RGrZbq6