Posted on by lbarron

August 7-13, 2023

To see full descriptions for any item in the list click on the continue reading link below the list.

This Week’s Events:       

0. Ongoing Services – updated 5/22/23
1. COMPETITIVE RESEARCH INTELLIGENCE WORKSHOP
2. NEW FACULTY HIRES CONVERSATION SERIES
3. GLC CAFÉ

Administrative Announcements: 
4. INTLHOKIES UNAVAILABLE AND NO WALK-INS ON AUGUST 8 – 1st posting
5. TRANSFORM YOUR RESEARCH SKILLS WITH GRAD 5124 (RESEARCH SKILLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS) – 1st posting
6. JOIN THE BLACK GRADUATE STUDENT ORGANIZATION – 1st posting
7. DON’T SPEND ALL YOUR MONEY AT ONCE! SIGN UP FOR THE FREE COMP FEE PAYMENT PLAN! – 1st posting
8. TAKE THE GPSS ASSISTANTSHIP SURVEY – 1st posting
9. TELL THE BOV: GRAD STUDENTS NEED A LIVING WAGE! – 1st posting
10. GRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK AND PLANNERS ARE AVAILABLE – 1st posting
11. RESEARCH TOOLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – FALL 2023 WORKSHOPS – 2nd posting
12. GRADUATE SCHOOL FEATURED GRADUATE STUDENT NOMINATIONS OPEN – 2nd posting
13. PROGRAMMING AND DATA BOOTCAMPS – 2nd posting
14. GPSS GRADUATE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM EXTENDED DEADLINE – 2nd posting
15. APPLY TO THE GPSS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM – 2nd posting
16. LEADERSHIP COURSES AVAILABLE & OPEN TO GRAD STUDENTS – 2nd posting
17. OPPORTUNITY TO ENROLL IN ALCE 5224 TEAM SCIENCE, COOPERATION, AND DISCIPLINARY WORK – 2nd posting
18. LOOKING TO IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH? – 3rd POSTING

Jobs
19. GA POSITION IN EL CENTRO HISPANIC/LATINX CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY CENTER – 1st posting
20. GA POSITION: DOD-USDA GRANT PROJECT – 2nd posting

Volunteers and research participants sought:
21. CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS FOR A STUDY ON CHILDREN’S SONIFICATION OF FAIRY TALES BASED ON 22.SENTIMENT ANALYSIS – 1st posting
23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR TASTE RESEARCH -2nd posting
24. HOMEFIELD FARM – VOLUNTEERS FOR FALL – 2nd posting
25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR TURMERIC SUPPLEMENTATION RESEARCH STUDY – 2nd posting
26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A TIME-LAPSE VIDEO RESEARCH STUDY  – 3rd posting
26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A TIME-LAPSE VIDEO RESEARCH STUDY  – 3rd posting
27. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: DRIVING SIMULATOR STUDY ON AUTOMATED VEHICLES AND ANXIETY – 3rd posting

Upcoming Events: 
28. GEARUP GRADUATE STUDENT PREORIENTATION PROGRAM – August 17-18
29. MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME – August 17
30. HEALTH INSURANCE SIGN UP – August 18
31. GPSS WELCOME BACK BBQ – August 18
32. INTRODUCTION TO THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES – August 23
33. BSGO FALL PLANT SALE- August 24
34. CAREER FAIR PREP – August 24
35. FELLOWSHIP AND RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES WITH ORISE – August 24
36. LITERATURE REVIEWS AND DATABASE SEARCHING FOR SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES – August 28
37. UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING YOUR ASSISTANTSHIP – August 29
38. FARMER’S MARKET TRIP – August 30
39. INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT – August 30
40. CRAFTING YOUR RESUME/CV – August 30
41. BLACK GRADUATE STUDENT ORGANIZATION VOLLEYBALL SOCIAL- August 30
42. UNDERREPRESENTED/MINORITIZED GRADUATE STUDENT LUNCHEON  – August 31
43. GOBBLERFEST – September 1
44. BGSO FALL HIKE – September 2
45. GETTING STARTED WITH ZOTERO – September 5
46. GROCERY BINGO –  September 6
47. HANDSHAKE FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – September 7
48. THE LYRIC THEATER TOUR – September 7
49. DAY FOR DATA SYMPOSIUM – September 8
50. WHAT HAVE I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO – September 851. DISTRACTED SUMMIT STUDENT POSTER COMPETITION – September 14

Click the continue reading link below to see full descriptions for each listing.

 0. Ongoing Services – updated 05/22/23    

  • GRADUATE SCHOOL: In-person advising, drop-off or pick-up of documents and materials, and a space to study and take a break! Visit SHIP (120 GLC),summer walk-in hours starting June 1st will be held on Monday and Thursday 9:00-4:00pm. The Graduate School offices will be open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. for the summer. Staff will be available by phone 540 231-8636 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 career advising appointment via https://career.vt.edu/job-search/Handshake.html ; GLC drop-in hours in GLC 120/SHIP will be held on Wednesdays 1-4pm
  • COOK COUNSELING: Drop-in hours for consultation begin on 8/22. Location is Room 49 at the GLC. Tuesdays 10 am to 12 pm and Fridays 1 to 3 pm. For consultations by Zoom e-mail hkatie19@vt.edu. Students seeking services can schedule a triage appointment by calling 540-231-6557. You may request first available appointment at our Gilbert Place office, or to be seen at the GLC. We also have embedded counselors in Engineering, College of Science, and Pamplin School of Business available. **Please note Cook Counseling’s main office has moved Gilbert Place, 220 Gilbert Street, suite 2400, beginning September 6, 2023.
  • WRITING CENTER SERVICES: Schedule an appointment at https://vt.mywconline.com/        
  • GRADUATE OMBUDSPERSON: contact for appointment at gradombud@vt.edu, 540-231-9573

1. COMPETITIVE RESEARCH INTELLIGENCE WORKSHOP
Tuesday, August 8, 12-1pm, Virtual
This session, led by Connie Stovall, director for research impact and intelligence with the Virginia Tech University Libraries, and Sarah Over, engineering collections and research analyst with University Libraries, will cover the following topics: Navigating research intelligence tools and interfaces Discover research competencies and trends by topic or category Discover potential collaborators, competitors, or potential recruits Understand Field Weighted Citation Impact and Prominence Percentile as useful metrics Discover past grant awards by subject, keyword, funder, and advanced searching. https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/2023/competitive-research-intelligence-workshop.html.

2. NEW FACULTY HIRES CONVERSATION SERIES
Wednesday, August 9, 12-1pm, Zoom
Come hear from recent faculty hires about their experience navigating the academic job market. August 9 will feature Dr. Chris Brown, Assistant Professor in Computer Science at VT. August 16 will feature Dr. Mohsen Zaker Esteghamati, a VT Ph.D. and postdoc alum from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering who is now an Assistant Professor at Utah State University. Come with your questions about the faculty job application and interview process for either or both of these informal conversations.  Register to attend: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvc-6hrz8pHNK8xTP6Lq25JVtxwdbRLOhL#/registration.  For more information about our next session, August 16: https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/2023/new-faculty-hires-conversations-series.html.

3. GLC CAFE
Wednesday, August 9 and Thursday, August 10, 3:30-5pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy coffee, tea, cookies and conversation with graduate students and Graduate School staff. Bring your own mug if you can! The GLC Café occurs every Thursday and the 2nd and 4th Wednesday. 

4. INTLHOKIES UNAVAILABLE AND NO WALK-INS ON AUGUST 8 – 1st posting
The IntlHokies portal will be unavailable 12pm EST on August 7, 2023 through 8am August 9, 2023 for security update. During this time, students will not be able to submit any e-form requests through the IntlHokies portal. The international student advisors will not be able to process any immigration requests. There will be no walk-in advising hours on Tuesday, August 8.

5. TRANSFORM YOUR RESEARCH SKILLS WITH GRAD 5124 (RESEARCH SKILLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS) – 1st posting
Take your research to the next level! GRAD 5124 (Research Skills for Graduate Students) is an asynchronous, one-credit, fully-online course offered by the University Libraries in fall 2023. Students will develop skills that will prepare them for research in graduate school and beyond. Three discipline-specific sections are offered, so students should be sure to sign up in HokieSPA for the one that relates to their subject area. Questions should be directed to Lisa Becksford at lisab5@vt.edu.

6. JOIN THE BLACK GRADUATE STUDENT ORGANIZATION – 1st posting
We are the Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO). We are actively looking for new members to join our organization at Virginia Tech. Members get access to BGSO apparel, socials, professional development workshops and community service events. All are welcome! Fill out the membership for by clicking on the attached link. Please contact Morgan Patrick (BGSO president) for any questions morganbp@vt.edu.  Membership application here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSegDSccqeFaN-yuuhVjNtX1m7lzmCZNBS0KL9144Sm7mx_zXQ/viewform.

7. DON’T SPEND ALL YOUR MONEY AT ONCE! SIGN UP FOR THE FREE COMP FEE PAYMENT PLAN! – 1st posting
GPSS is working on eliminating fees. But for now, we want you to know you don’t have to pay them all in one lump sum! Did you know that there is a free payment plan for comprehensive fees? HOW-TO: Log into your Hokie SPA (hokiespa.vt.edu), Select “Hokie Team” tab, Select “Graduate Comprehensive Fee Payment Plan” link,  Choose “Enroll in Graduate”,  Email bthelp@vt.edu with any questions.

8. TAKE THE GPSS ASSISTANTSHIP SURVEY – 1st posting
This spring, the minimum assistantship level was raised for graduate students and graduate students were also promised a 5% raise in the fall. However, grad comprehensive fees were raised as well. The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) has received reports from students, particularly international students, who are actually making less per month due to this increase in fees. We are trying to investigate these concerns as quickly as possible to better serve everyone. Additionally, we want to ensure that everyone received the 5% increase and are at or above the new minimum ($2420/month or step 12 on the stipend table) Please fill out this survey to help GPSS collect this critical data: https://forms.gle/GtJzsyQXm8nasWTD8.

9. TELL THE BOV: GRAD STUDENTS NEED A LIVING WAGE! – 1st posting
If you’re interested in increased pay and low or no fees for grad students, make your voice heard at the August BOV meeting in Roanoke being held on August 27-29! The Virginia Tech Board of Visitors (the highest governing body at VT) is meeting on August 27-29 in Roanoke. Graduate student presence at the last BOV meeting helped get the minimum stipend level for graduate students raised to $2420/month. However, the new minimum is still not a living wage! Just like the last BoV meeting, GPSS is holding a virtual training on how to talk to BoV members about grad student issues on August 23. Additionally,  The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) will be coordinating carpools up to Roanoke for the three days of meetings. Sign up for the carpool to Roanoke: https://forms.gle/1GtZfw8iiiKdVKVJ9 Sign up for the advocacy training on August 23: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAsc-itrDIjE9AgaYJLa7AQ623rYU2GPw-k.

10. GRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK AND PLANNERS ARE AVAILABLE – 1st posting
Come pick up your 2023/2024 Graduate Student Handbook and planner in SHIP/GLC 120. SHIP is open  Monday-Friday 9am-4pm.

11. RESEARCH TOOLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – FALL 2023 WORKSHOPS – 2nd posting
University libraries is offering a series of workshops on research tools for graduate students.  All sessions delivered via Zoom; more information and recordings of sessions can be found here: guides.lib.vt.edu/gradworkshops.

12. GRADUATE SCHOOL FEATURED GRADUATE STUDENT NOMINATIONS OPEN – 2nd posting
Nominate yourself, a friend, or fellow graduate student to be recognized on the Graduate School website as a Featured Graduate Student! This program is designed to showcase the diversity of perspectives graduate students bring to our community and to present a more personal side of graduate student life. To view the Graduate School’s current featured graduate student visit: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/fgsa.html.  To nominate a graduate student: https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/fgsa/#/visitor. 

13. PROGRAMMING AND DATA BOOTCAMPS – 2nd posting
Need to learn Python, R, Git, data cleaning, or other computing skills fast? Register for a free 2-day hands-on Software Carpentry workshop August 10-11 or 14-15 or a mini-workshop on August 7 online through University Libraries! No experience is necessary, although you will need a computer you can install the software on. For more information, contact Data Education Coordinator Nathaniel Porter. https://profdev.tlos.vt.edu/?query=porter.

14. GPSS GRADUATE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM EXTENDED DEADLINE – 2nd posting
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) is now accepting applications for the senate’s Graduate Research Development Program. The new application deadline is August 15th at 11:59 p.m. EST. Master’s students are eligible to receive $1000 and doctoral students are eligible for receive up to $1500. Funds may be requested for travel, lab analyses, supplies and other expenses incurred for degree-contingent research. $10,000 will be distributed. Application materials and full instructions can be found here: https://gpss.vt.edu/programs/grdp.html. Please e-mail Aran Garnett-Deakin at acgarnet@vt.edu with any questions.

15. APPLY TO THE GPSS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM – 2nd posting
The GPSS Travel Fund Program (TFP) provides grants to partially offset expenses associated with graduate student conference travel, including transportation, registration fees, lodging, and meals for domestic and international travel. Full-time graduate students presenting research conducted as part of a Virginia Tech degree program are eligible to apply. Due to limited funding, an individual graduate student may only receive one award per academic year (Summer to Spring). The Fall 2023 Cycle Travel Fund Program opens on July 17th and closes on August 14th. The Fall Cycle covers any conferences attended between October 1, 2023 and December 31, 2023. Awardees will be notified on or before September 1st. Contact Aran Garnett-Deakin acgarnet@vt.edu for more information. Learn more and apply here: https://gpss.vt.edu/programs/tfp.html.

16. LEADERSHIP COURSES AVAILABLE & OPEN TO GRAD STUDENTS – 2nd posting
Two Leadership courses have available seats for Fall 23 enrollment: Leading Negotiations LDRS 4984 CRN 91744 Explores the skills and practices of negotiations. Contact Dr Curt Friedel cfriedel@vt.edu for more information. Leadership in Global Society LDRS 5464 CRN 91847 examines the personal and professional competencies required for effective leadership in an increasingly global, diverse and multicultural society. Contact Dr Eric Kaufman ekk@vt.edu  for more information.

17. OPPORTUNITY TO ENROLL IN ALCE 5224 TEAM SCIENCE, COOPERATION, AND DISCIPLINARY WORK – 2nd posting

This fall semester is a new offering of ALCE 5224 Team Science, Cooperation, and Interdisciplinary Work, (CRN 91672) in a traditional face-to-face format. The class will meet Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 11:15 AM to 12:05 PM, in Litton-Reaves 1800. Dr. Curt Friedel will be the instructor. The complex problems of today and tomorrow can no longer be solved by one expert. Research teams and creative teams are needed to work together to solve these societal problems. The goal is then to utilize diversity of perspectives from the team without the diversity of perspectives pulling the team apart. This course will cover concepts of individual and team readiness, effectiveness, protocols, training, and outcomes in team science and cooperative processes. Contact Dr. Curt Friedel for a copy of the syllabus. https://www.cals.vt.edu/academic-programs/online/courses/alce5224.html.

18. LOOKING TO IMPROVE YOUR ENGLISH? – 3rd posting
Looking to improve your English? Did you know that the Language and Culture Institute at Virginia Tech offers English Language courses to the international community? We welcome students, spouses, employees, scholars and community members to come and learn English with us. We offer semester-long intensive English classes in grammar, listening and speaking as well as reading and writing. To be placed in one of our levels please take the Duolingo test or an equivalent. Test scores must be received by August 14. For more information, please contact our Admissions Manager Elizabeth Loar eloar@vt.edu. Classes start August 21 220 Gilbert Street, Suite 5300 Blacksburg, Virginia 24060.

19. GA POSITION IN EL CENTRO HISPANIC/LATINX CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY CENTER – 1st posting
This job requires working closely with the Director of El Centro to do the following: Event Planning and Assessment Plan, create, and implement programs and events for El Centro and sometimes for the CCCs (Cultural and Community Centers). Student Engagement and Support Services Establish relationships and collaborations with student organizations, academic departments, student affairs, and other campus units to increase positive dialogue for El Centro students. Administration and Operations: Participates in a dynamic team that develops and implements (existing/new) innovative co-curricular programs; training and services that result in student learning, development, cross-cultural engagement and community building for students from diverse cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds and heritages. Advise and supervise El Centro (undergraduate) Programming Assistants. Special Projects Assist with special projects related to El Centro. Bachelor’s degree. Currently enrolled as a graduate student at VT. Strong administrative and technical skills to include experience with Microsoft suite and Microsoft Outlook.  Application deadline, August 21, 2023. For more information/to apply please see: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P83ONZxGQeWLP2riID7uKOMgVJ6aS43m/view?usp=sharing.

20. GA POSITION: DOD-USDA GRANT PROJECT –2nd posting
National Project Leader for OneOp /Virginia Cooperative Extension faculty member seeks a full-time (20 hours/week) Graduate Assistant for a full year (12 month) appointment beginning immediately. This is a remote position with the opportunity for long-term funding and growth for the right candidate. The GA will work closely with the NPL on all aspects of adult online education program development and delivery, program evaluation, federal grant administration/management, and staff support. The successful candidate will be interested in adult education, the development and evaluation of online learning opportunities for adult professionals, and federal grant administration efforts. Specifically seeking demonstrated proficiency in some combination of the following areas: adult education, project management, writing/editing, literature reviews, data visualization, Qualtrics, working knowledge of military families, working knowledge of social services/family support. Required: critical thinking, curiosity, willingness to learn, a sense of humor. op.org.  This position is closed – no longer accepting applications

21. CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS FOR A STUDY ON CHILDREN’S SONIFICATION OF FAIRY TALES BASED ON SENTIMENT ANALYSIS – 1st posting
We are recruiting participants for a study on the sonification of Children’s fairy tales based on sentiment analysis. More details can be found in the attached pdf. The study is compensated($10) and is approved by the VT IRB under protocol 22-1035. Minimum age: 18 years old. For more information contact: yeajilee@vt.edu.

22. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A TABLET-BASED VR OBJECT MANIPULATION STUDY – 1st posting
The Echo Lab at Virginia Tech is recruiting participants for a tablet-based virtual reality research study (IRB# 23-178). The purpose of this study is to explore different interaction methods for virtual object manipulation using hand-held tablets. Participants will be asked to move a virtual object to a target location in a 3D virtual space while holding a tablet with two hands. For enrollment, participants need to be 18+ years old and have normal or corrected-to-normal vision. If you have already participated in this study, you cannot participate again. The study will take 1.5-2 hours and participants will receive Amazon gift card compensation at $10 per hour. If you are interested in participating, please contact Hayoun Moon moonhy@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR TASTE RESEARCH -2nd posting
The Center for Health Behavior Research at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, located in Roanoke, is conducting a 5 week research study in which participants will taste several flavors, drink flavored beverages, and have their blood sugar levels measured. Participants will be compensated up to $340. 18-45 years old, healthy, does not abuse substances.
The Center for Health Behavior Research at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, located in Roanoke, is conducting a 5 week research study in which participants will taste several flavors, drink flavored beverages, and have their blood sugar levels measured. Participants will be compensated up to $340. 18-45 years old, healthy, does not abuse substances. Sign up here:  https://tinyurl.com/donnutsurvey. IRB #19-927.

24. HOMEFIELD FARM – VOLUNTEERS FOR FALL – 2nd posting
Homefield Farm is a partnership between Dining Services and CALS. It is the only certified organic operation owned by a university in Virginia. Volunteers gain experience in all aspects of farm care. Fall semester focuses heavily on the harvest season. Volunteering will allow you the opportunity to experience food production from the very beginning. It’s a great opportunity to break away from campus, to gain hands-on experiences and to add to your resume. No experience needed. You must provide your own transportation. https://forms.office.com/r/psMJekUMzN.

25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR TURMERIC SUPPLEMENTATION RESEARCH STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a study evaluating the effects of 4 weeks of oral Turmeric supplementation on markers of oxidative stress and inflammation (IRB 22-646). This study comprises of two visits, separated by 4 weeks of oral Turmeric supplementation provided by the research team. Participants will undergo a graded exercise test (VO2max test) on a treadmill, while being connected to a metabolic cart. A blood sample will be drawn via venipuncture before and after the treadmill test. Study measurements will include blood pressure, body composition, bone mineral density, VO2max, and anthropometry. Eligible participants must be woman and men in good general health between the ages of 18-45, non-smoker, free from chronic diseases and are physically active for 2 or more days per week. Participants will receive information on body composition, bone density, and VO2max. For more information contact: Rohit Ramadoss volpelabvt@gmail.com.

26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A TIME-LAPSE VIDEO RESEARCH STUDY  – 3rd posting
The Echolab is recruiting participants for a research study to investigate the effectiveness of watching time-lapse videos as a process of self-reflection. Our team is studying how watching time-lapse videos about past computer activities could facilitate the procedure of self-reflection and improve knowledge workers’ working productivity with uncovered pros and cons. For this study, we will install two applications: Time-Lapse Video and RescueTime on participants’ computers. Each day during the study, participants will be asked to check each application’s result and fill out a daily survey. The whole study will continue for four weeks. We are seeking participants are: 1)18 years and older, 2) A macOS computer user, 3) Working as a knowledge worker, 4) Allowing installing and running external applications on your working computer to record screen activities with permission from the machine owner, and 5) Users who are the sole user of their machine. After the completion of the study, each participant will be compensated with a $60 gift card and a one-month RescueTime plan ($12). For more information, please get in touch with Donghan Hu at hudh0827@vt.edu.

27. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: DRIVING SIMULATOR STUDY ON AUTOMATED VEHICLES AND ANXIETY – 3rd posting
Volunteers needed to participate in a driving simulator study to explore driving events and anxiety in automated driving. This project protocol was reviewed by the Virginia Tech Human Research Protections Program (#23-284). During the study, you will operate a driving simulator through multiple driving scenarios. For the entirety of the driving journey, the automated driving system will operate the driving task. You will encounter different driving events over the course of the study and react to them. Participants must be an active driver with a valid drivers’ license, compensation $25. Register here: https://forms.gle/Ys8e2YRjk8iHKppU9.

28. GEARUP GRADUATE STUDENT PREORIENTATION PROGRAM
Thursday, August 17, 9am – Friday, August 18, 6pm, Torgersen Hall room 1040
Are you ready to GearUP? The “GearUP Graduate Student Pre-Orientation Program” is to bring together incoming graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds and provide them with resources early in their graduate school experience to prepare them for a successful academic year. Discover strategies and resources to benefit your graduate experience, receive holistic support, and identify opportunities to maximize your educational success. Registration is required: https://applyto.graduateschool.vt.edu/register/GearUp2023. Questions? contact the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Strategic Partnerships (DISP) at ordi@vt.edu.

29. MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME
Thursday, August 17, 4:30-6pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Connect with new and returning students, Graduate School staff, and resources that can help you settle in and succeed in Blacksburg. Free refreshments for all. Prizes will be given out to help you decorate or make your new home more comfortable and welcoming.  This event replaces the weekly GLC café just this one time. The café will return next week on its regular 3:30-5:00 schedule in the Reading Room. Register here: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/home23.

30. HEALTH INSURANCE SIGN UP            
Friday, August 18, 11am-1pm, GLC Lobby
Stop by the GLC Lobby to sign up for student health insurance with Aetna and ask representatives any questions you may have. For questions contact the Student Medical Insurance Office at smi@vt.edu.

31. GPSS WELCOME BACK BBQ
Friday, August 18, Graduate School Lawn
The Graduate Student Assembly and VT Graduate School invite all new and returning graduate students to their annual Welcome Back BBQ. Various games will be available on the lawn throughout the event. This event is free and a great opportunity to meet new graduate students and have some fun before the semester begins.

32. INTRODUCTION TO THE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES
Wednesday, August 23, 2:30-3:30 pm, Zoom
Who can help me at the library? How many books can I check out? What support do you offer for data management? What kinds of technology is available? How can I get something the library doesn’t own? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this virtual information session. By the end of this session, you’ll be able to: locate research help at the University Libraries, navigate the library’s website, identify library resources that can help you succeed in graduate school Please note that in this session, we won’t be covering how to use databases or search for information; if you’re interested in learning more about those topics, please sign up for one of the literature review sessions in this workshop series. Register for the session here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/10939464.

33. BSGO FALL PLANT SALE
Thursday, August 24, 10am-5pm, Drillfield
BGSO will be hosting a plant sale! All different types of plants with varying sizes and prices will be on sale. Cash and Electronic payments are accepted.

34. CAREER FAIR PREP – SAVE THE DATE
Thursday, August 24, 11am-12pm, Zoom
Learn how to present yourself to an employer and what to ask at a job fair.  Tips for in-person and virtual career fairs. Registration link will be shared soon.

35. FELLOWSHIP AND RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES WITH ORISE
Thursday, August 24, 1-2pm, Zoom
The Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) connects talented and diverse students, postdocs, and faculty to mentored internship and fellowship experiences at a variety of research facilities, including those managed by the U.S. Department of Energy and other federal agencies. This information session will provide an overview of ORISE’s opportunity search platform, Zintellect, as well as a chance to hear from officials at some of the ORISE partner agencies.

36. LITERATURE REVIEWS AND DATABASE SEARCHING FOR SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
Monday, August 28, 4-5:15 pm, Zoom You’ve been assigned to write a literature review in the social sciences…but how do you get started? What kinds of literature reviews are there? Where should you search? How do you know what search terms to use? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this interactive workshop. By the end of this session, you’ll be able to : identify different types of literature reviews, find relevant databases, create effective search terms. This workshop will focus on research in the social and behavioral sciences, such as education, communication, human development, psychology, and sociology. Register for the session here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/10939473.

37. UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING YOUR ASSISTANTSHIP
Tuesday, August 29, 4-5pm, GLC room C and Friday, September 1, Zoom
Students on assistantship will learn about payroll, tuition awards, maintaining eligibility, performance management, time worked, time off, and termination. Also get tips on how to work with your supervisor to get the most out of your assistantship experience. PLEASE NOTE there is a virtual option and an in-person option on separate dates. Please choose accordingly. Register here: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/assistantship23.

38. FARMER’S MARKET TRIP
Wednesday, August 30, 2:30pm, meet outside GLC on Otey Street
Walk with Graduate School staff and other graduate students to the Farmer’s Market in Blacksburg – just a short walk from the Graduate Life Center (GLC). The Blacksburg Farmers Market is your local, family-friendly gathering place in downtown Blacksburg. The market features growers of locally grown produce and meats, alongside artisans of baked goods, prepared foods, cheese, handmade crafts, and so much more! Meet outside of the GLC on the Otey Street side. Register here: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AWXc2ZzNP1. 

39. INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT
Wednesday, August 30, 2:30-3:30pm, Zoom
You’re about to collect or already have data for your research project…now what? How do you manage it? What do you name the files? How do you share it? Learn the answers to all of these questions and more in this workshop, which will present an introduction to research data management, including the following topics: Data management planning, File naming conventions/organization, Backing-up research data, Documentation (metadata), Data sharing, Data security , How the library can help. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/10939476. 

40.  CRAFTING YOUR RESUME/CV – SAVE THE DATE
Wednesday, August 30, 4-5pm, GLC Room B and Thursday August 31, 11am-12pm, Zoom
Having a well-polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview. Start early to be ready for fall career fairs and on-campus interviews. The workshop will include information on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Registration link will be shared soon!

41. BLACK GRADUATE STUDENT ORGANIZATION VOLLEYBALL SOCIAL 
Wednesday, August 30, 5-9pm, Sand Volleyball Court
Come out and play volleyball. Open to a variety of skill level. Members and Non-members welcome!

42. UNDERREPRESENTED/MINORITIZED GRADUATE STUDENT LUNCHEON
Thursday, August 31, 2023, Noon-1:00PM, Graduate Life Center Multipurpose Room
Join the Graduate School’s Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Strategic Partnerships for our URM Graduate Student Connect Lunch! Connect with various members of the graduate community such as international students, underrepresented and/or minoritized students, racial/ethnic minorities, sexual/gender minorities, and others. Receive valuable information regarding DEI initiatives as well as career and personal branding development. Featuring guest speaker, Dr. Matthew Cowley, Executive Director for Career and Professional Development. Participation is FREE and lunch will be provided for all attendees. Registration is required https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/URM2023 Questions? Please contact Dr. Catherine Cotrupi at ordi@vt.edu.

43.  GOBBLERFEST
Friday, September 1, 4-7pm, Drillfield
All students are encouraged to take advantage of this event to meet over 500 student organizations, in addition to local businesses and a variety of campus departments. Learn more here: https://campuslife.vt.edu/Student_Orgs/gobblerfest.html.

44. BGSO FALL HIKE – SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, September 2, 9am, location TBD
The location of hike is TBD. Hikes are considered easy to moderate level. No experience required to join on hikes. Everyone is welcome to attend. Hike location and sign up link will be shared soon!

45. GETTING STARTED WITH ZOTERO
Tuesday, September 5, 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). Register for the session here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/10939482.  Please note: 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. 

46. GROCERY BINGO
Wednesday, September 6, 5:30pm, GLC Room F
Learn about the Graduate School and graduate student resources while playing Bingo! Winners will get grocery items to take home. Be there on time so you don’t miss your chance at winning!  Register here: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/grocerybingo.

47. HANDSHAKE FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – SAVE THE DATE
Thursday, September 7, 11am-12pm, Zoom
This workshop will cover how to navigate Handshake and use it effectively for appointments, events, and your job search! Watch for registration link to be shared soon.

48. THE LYRIC THEATER TOUR
Thursday, September 7, 2pm, The Lyric Theater, 135 College Ave., Blacksburg
Join us for a tour of the historic Lyric Theater on College Avenue in downtown Blacksburg. Participants will be shown the 1930s design of the Lyric Theater, view a short video about downtown Blacksburg and learn about opportunities to volunteer. Everyone who attends will receive a free movie pass.  We will meet at the Lyric Theater. Please arrive five to ten minutes early. Learn more about The Lyric here: https://www.thelyric.com/. Register here: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/lyrictour.

49. DAY FOR DATA SYMPOSIUM
Friday, September 8, 8am-4pm, Owens Ballroom
You’re invited to Virginia Tech’s second-annual Day for Data symposium! This one-day conference brings industry professionals to campus for a real-world exploration of business analytics. Thought leaders will lead sessions around the latest topics, including Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), techniques for data analysis, maximizing digital privacy, translating data into insights for non-technical audiences, and more. This excellent recruitment opportunity is open to all VT graduate and undergraduate students — upload your resume when you RSVP! Sponsors include Amazon Web Services (AWS), Ernst & Young (EY), Guidehouse, MarathonTS, and Norfolk Southern. Learn more and register today at: https://cba.pamplin.vt.edu/dayfordata.

50. WHAT HAVE I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO
Friday, September 8, 12-1pm, GLC room B
If you’re a new graduate student who has asked yourself this question, the Graduate School wants you to know that you are not alone! Meet fellow graduate students, new and returning, to talk about this exciting—and often overwhelming—life adventure. There will be pizza! Spots are limited, and food has to be ordered, so please only sign-up if you know you can attend. Register here:  https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/gottenmyselfinto.  Registration will close on September 5. 

51. DISTRACTED DRIVING SUMMIT STUDENT POSTER COMPETITION
Thursday, September 14, 7:30am-12:30pm, The Inn At Virginia TechVirginia Tech will be hosting the 10th Annual Distracted Driving Summit in Blacksburg, VA on September 13-14, 2023. This year there will be a student poster competition on September 14th, 2023. Undergraduates and graduate students whose research focus on transportation are encouraged to apply. Preliminary work and literature reviews are welcomed. Submissions require a 300-word limit abstract. Deadline for this submission is 9/6. Conference fees are waived for the day of the poster competition for those selected. Spaces are limited so enter now! Apply now at https://forms.gle/PxALEbnFTRY1HXh58.