Author: chameleo

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 3/13/2017

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

2. COMMUNITY VOICES PRESENTS: THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE INTL CIVIL SERVANT
Monday, Apr 10, 12:00-1:00pm
Francesco Manca, a retired senior United Nations official, is featured at this roundtable discussion on “The independence of the international civil servant:  a duty or an option?”.  The roundtable will be followed by a Trustees Without Boarders podcast interview.  The event is sponsored by the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, SPIA, the Division of Student Affairs, the Institute for Society, Culture and Environment, the Institute for Policy and Governance, OIRED, the Dept of Agricultural Leadership and Community Education, and Dean’s Advisory Committee on International Initiatives. Bring your own lunch or register for a $5 lunch at regina50@vt.edu. Admission is free.

3. RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTS: WHAT IS MOLECULAR PALEONTOLOGY?
Monday, Apr 10, 5:30-6:30pm, 2062 Derring
An overview of the relatively new subfield of molecular paleontology, which uses cutting-edge technology to examine organic preservation in fossils, a new way of studying the biology of extinct animals. Caitlin Colleary will share the results of the research that she have done on melanin preservation and identifying color and color patterning in extinct animals and the work she is doing now for her PhD on protein preservation. Come for the talk and stay for free ice cream! Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. The main idea is to give graduate students an opportunity to practice communicating their research to an audience that is unfamiliar with their discipline in order to cut down on reliance on jargon and to simplify and clarify their presentation skills. RALM aims to help graduate students become better teachers, researchers and communicators.

4. OPEN DATA WEEK APR 10-13
Open Data week offers opportunities to learn more about sharing, visualizing, finding, mining, and reusing data for research. Full schedule and more info: http://bit.ly/VTopendataweek2017. Registration is requested at http://guides.lib.vt.edu/OpenDataWeek/RSVP.

5. APPALACHIAN “MEET ‘N EAT”
Tuesday, Apr 11, 12:00-1:30pm, American Indian & Indigenous Community Center
All students, faculty and staff who identify as Appalachian are welcome to join for good pizza, good friends and good conversation. The center is located on the ground floor of Squires, to the left of the information desk. Bring a story, memory or object that reminds you of home and share your experiences with other members of the community! Interested participants should fill out a brief survey at http://tinyurl.com/appmeetneat4. For more information, contact grad student Amanda Halliburton (ahallibu@vt.edu).

6. START SMART: SALARY NEGOTIATION FOR WOMEN
Tuesday, Apr 11, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room C
This workshop is designed to empower women and provide them with the tools to negotiate salaries and benefits as they approach the job market. Participants work through some exercises to learn negotiation skills, understand the personal consequences of the gender wage gap, review how to benchmark salaries and benefits, and gain insight into their own bottom line and personal budget. Please register if you are planning to attend: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0fhAKGIVwkz1Bw9.

7. US STUDENT FULBRIGHT INFORMATION SESSIONS
Thursday, Apr 13, 10am, 1pm, 2:30p, 5pm, and 6pm, GLC Room C
These interactive workshops will introduce participants to the US Student Fulbright program, which opened its application cycle on April 3 for grants to be awarded for the 2018 – 2019 academic year. The Fulbright program is an exchange initiative of the US State Department and offers US citizens funding opportunities for independent research/study projects, graduate degree enrollment, and English teaching assistantships in more than 140 countries. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors, recent graduates, master’s and doctoral candidates, and young professionals with up to 5 years of professional study and/or experience. Students at all academic levels are welcome to attend. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to begin planning their candidacy early. The VT campus deadline is September 1, 2017.Students who are unable to attend this session can make an individual advising appointment.

8. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 13, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

9. UndocuAlly TRAINING WORKSHOP
Thursday, Apr 13 AND Thursday, Apr 20 6:30-8:30pm, GLC Room G and GLC Room C
The mission of Tech DREAMers is to create a more inclusive environment for all undocumented students at Virginia Tech through education and advocacy. One of the ways we hope to achieve our mission is through “UndocuAlly” training sessions in which we invite faculty, staff and students at Virginia Tech to increase their knowledge of issues relating to undocumented students in Virginia. Snacks will be provided.  If you plan on participating, you must sign up – please only sign-up if you know you can attend: https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScbmv5HNHljeqnIWoOGT1XpvpZLHGDumJpUn7ilTluUZJmRbA/viewform?usp=sf_link

10. VTGrATE: WORKSHOP ON TECHNOLOGY
Friday, Apr 14, 1:30-2:30pm, GLC Room G
VT Graduate Academy of Teaching Excellence presents a workshop on Technology in the Classrooms. Liz Spingola from the College of Engineering’s Information Technology (Instructional Technology Team) will lead this workshop. She will give a short presentation on technologies which may be relevant to GTAs from 1:30-2:00, after which we will open the floor to specific questions/concerns of the attendees.

11. CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT STUDENT ADVISORY BOARD APPLICATIONS-1^ST posting
Are you interested in having your voice heard on marketing, new events, software, services, and other aspects of Virginia Tech’s Career and Professional Development? Consider applying for the 2017-2018 Student Advisory Board, where students will gather once a month to give feedback on how our office can best serve the Virginia Tech community! We are specifically looking for masters and doctoral students across the university who will be able to bring diverse perspectives and represent their departments, colleges, and campus groups. If you are interested in participating in this great opportunity to become involved on campus and give back to your institution, please go to http://career.vt.edu/about/student-advisory-board.html for more information, or contact Mr. Steven White at whitesm@vt.edu. Applications are due Monday, April 17 at noon.

12. INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY SCHOLARS PROGRAM – 1^st posting
The Hume Center for National Security and Technology is accepting applications for its Intelligence Community Scholars Program. The IC Scholars Program is open to both current and admitted graduate and undergraduate students from any major. Recipients of these awards participate in the National Security Education Program (NSEP), giving them access to events and resources exclusively for NSEP members, while they conduct research projects related to the intelligence community or national security. Scholarships range from $1500 to $15,000 per year. Applications are due Monday, April 24. Applicants should be United States citizens with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applications and more information can be found at hume.vt.edu/scholars or by contacting Stephanie Plum at splum@vt.edu.

13. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM APPLICATION – APR 4-11 – 2^nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open for applications on April 4th and close on April 11th at 11:59PM. The application guide is now available on the GSA website (http://tinyurl.com/GSATravelFund). This program can provide partial support for professional or conference travel occurring between January 1 and July 31, 2017. If you have questions, contact TFP Chair Zack Shiner at gsaTravelFund@gmail.com

14. HELP CREATE A THEME FOR BIANNUAL BLACK ALUMNI REUNION – 3^rd posting
Students are invited to submit ideas for the celebration of Black Alumni Reunion, which this year marks 50 years of black organizations at VT, including 50th anniversary of Groove Phi Groove, 50th anniversary of the Human Relations Council, a celebration of 45 years of NPHC at VT, and 40th Anniversary of BSA. Help to create a theme for the reunion by submitting an entry to Latanya Walker, latanya@vt.edu. If your theme is chosen, you will receive a bag of Hokie gifts to add to your collection.

15. GSA "DR. RICH" CAP & GOWN PROGRAM FOR GRADS: LOTTERY OPEN MAR 27-APR 14 – 3^rd posting
If you are graduating this spring and/or participating in commencement ceremonies, you are eligible to borrow a graduate cap and gown from the GSA for free! The "Dr. Rich" Cap & Gown Program loans a limited number of gowns and caps to grad students participating in Spring 2017 graduation ceremonies via a lottery. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA in acceptable condition for cleaning and use by future graduating students. Enter the lottery at http://tinyurl.com/gsacapgown-spring17 by Friday, Apr 14 at 5pm EDT. Those chosen in the lottery will be notified no later than Apr 21, and must still purchase their own hoods, tassels, and any other required regalia. All items are used, but gowns have been dry cleaned and steamed, and caps have been disinfected. Questions? Email gsacapgown@gmail.com.

16. DISSERTATION INSTITUTE FOR UNDERREPRESENTED GRADS IN ENGINEERING – 3^rd posting
The 2017 Dissertation Institute, an interactive workshop for underrepresented (African American, native American, Pacific Island and Hispanic American) graduate students in engineering, addresses issues that prolong completion times for those at the dissertation proposal preparation and dissertation completion stages. The Institute is funded by NSF and hosted by Old Dominion University and VT. The Dissertation Institute will take place June 11–16 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County campus and focus on skills and strategies needed to successfully complete the dissertation process and provide networking opportunities to build connections for future collaborative career advancement. Participants will build writing habits, work on their dissertation or proposal, and learn skills that will help them continue making progress. Housing and meals provided; reimbursement for travel costs up to $500. Learn more at www.dissertationinstitute.com; send questions to dissertationinstitute@gmail.com. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Mayra Artiles.

17. GA POSITION IN BLACK CULTURAL CENTER – 1^st posting
The Black Cultural Center is seeking one full-time (20 hours a week) graduate assistant to assist with the development and planning of center programs and initiatives.  Must be a self-starter with great initiative and strong interpersonal, organizational, leadership, and presentation skills; must be able to comfortably interact with all individuals in a diverse, multicultural environment. Occasional evening and weekend work is required. Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and references to Nicole Johnson at nicj712@vt.edu. Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. 

17.5 ENGINEERING EDUCATION PAID INTERNSHIPS – 1^st posting
The Department of Engineering Education is seeking paid interns for the College of Engineering New Student Orientation. Position details and mandatory dates can be found at http://www.enge.vt.edu/_files/undergraduate/advising_internship.pdf and the application can be found here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0ex0XA7X1c5hfpP. If you have questions, contact Marlena Lester at marlenal@vt.edu. 

18. TWO GA POSITIONS IN MAOP FOR 2017-18 – 2^nd posting
The Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program is seeking two full time GAs for next year to assist with the planning, delivery and assessment of support programs. Must have high level of initiative and strong interpersonal, organizational, leadership, and presentation skills; must be able to comfortably interact with all individuals in a diverse, multicultural environment. Occasional evening and weekend work required. Must have regular office hours. Preference given to students in master’s program in education or related fields. Submit a resume and cover letter to Monica Hunter at monicah@vt.edu.   Resumes will be accepted until position is filled. 

19. GA POSITION IN GLOBAL ENGINEERING, ENGAGEMENT AND RESEARCH-2^nd posting
The Office of Global Engineering, Engagement and Research in the College of Engineering has a graduate assistantship opening beginning Fall 2017. This is a full-time assistantship (20 hours per week) open to masters or PhD level students. The GA will support a number of international initiatives in the college. A background and interest in international education, study abroad program coordination, and international research is a plus. Interested students may submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to April Keene at ipitadmin@vt.edu. Students should include “GEER GA” in the subject line of their email. Materials must be received by Wednesday, April 12, 2017.

20. TEACHER TRAINEES INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN RESEARCH STUDY – 1st posting
We are recruiting Seniors and Graduate Students interested in becoming urban teachers to provide us with feedback on an interactive training system (IVT) designed to give teachers practice interacting with disruptive animated characters in a virtual classroom environment. We Need Your Help To: 1. Identify usability problems with the training system 2. Improve the training system based on feedback. Students will participate in one Feedback Session (about 1-2 hours) in Whittemore Hall on Virginia Tech’s Blacksburg campus. Participants will be compensated $20/hour (prorated $10 for every half hour) for their participation. Appointments will likely be in the May 3 – 5th time frame. To learn more, please email Ali Haskins Lisle at ahaskins@vt.edu

21. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR VIDEO – 1^st posting
The Virginia Tech Graduate Academy for Teaching Assistant Excellence (VT GrATE) is proud to present “Valuing Knowledge: A VT GrATE Teach-In.” We will have the Teach-In on 18th April at the GLC. In preparing for the Teach-In, we are seeking participants for a video titled "Global Researcher, Global Learner Reflections". This video will be showcased in one of the sessions at the Teach-In on 18th April. Through this video, we hope to capture stories highlighting experiences of international graduate researchers and teaching assistants who work at Tech, and the faculty and peers that they work with. Specifically, we are looking for volunteers who are willing to share their experiences as international students and faculty, as well as faculty and graduate students who have worked/are working with international graduate students and/or faculty here at Virginia Tech. If you would like to contribute to this video, please fill up our short survey at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3U89DbmEn756AsJ. Additionally, you can also contact Michelle Soledad (msoled21@vt.edu) and Sreyoshi Bhaduri (sreyoshi@vt.edu) for more information.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY – 1^st posting
Participants are needed for a research study for a student’s capstone class. The research is titled "Perceptions of Sexual Assault and Rape among Middle Eastern Immigrant Men in the Southwest Area of Virginia.” Participants should be Middle Eastern immigrant men, who identify as Muslims. The participants will get $10 Walmart gift card after the interviews. Potential participants can email Taysir Al Janabi at Taysir80@vt.edu or call him at 540-251-1006.

23. GSA GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM REVIEW HELP NEEDED – 3^rd posting
Want to know the cutting-edge research graduate students are conducting here at VT? How about a new line on your CV? The GSA needs your help with reviewing applications for the Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP). Grad students in the social sciences, business, humanities, or education are needed to review applications.  If you are willing to be a reviewer, fill out this survey: https://tinyurl.com/GRDPreview, and the GRDP Chair will email you further instructions. If you want more details about what is entailed in reviewing or have any other questions, contact GRDP Chair Adwoa Baah-Dwomoh at gsaGRDP@gmail.com.

24. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON HEALTH, DIET & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REWARDS – 3^rd posting
Volunteers needed for a study examining whether delayed discounting (small reward now or larger reward later) is related to health, diet, and physical activity level. Must be: male or female, any race and ethnicity; ages of 18-65; Body Mass Index between 22-40 kg/m2; not trying to gain or lose weight; have not gained or lost weight in the past 6 months; willing to participate in two testing sessions (~ 5 hrs of time); willing to have blood drawn, body fat assessed, an oral glucose tolerance test, fill out questionnaires related to diet and physical activity, and wear a physical activity monitor for 4 days. Participants will receive information related to body composition, diet and physical activity level, and blood glucose and lipids (cholesterol).  The total amount possible for participation is $60.  If interested, contact the VT Skeletal Muscle Substrate Metabolism Lab: vtsmsmlab@gmail.com, 540-739-2522.

25. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN STUDY ABOUT WEARABLE EXOSKELETONS – 3^rd posting
Must be male or female; 18-55 years old; no current or recent history of musculoskeletal disorders. Experiment Details: participants will be asked to perform a simulated drilling task without and with three exoskeletons. Two experimental sessions (each ~3.5 hour) are required to complete the study. Compensation: $10/hour. If interested, call or email Saad Alabdulkarim at iesaad@vt.edu, (206-859- 9146).

26. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF CELEBRITY ENDORSED FOOD/DRINK PRODUCTS – 3^rd   posting
A Ph.D. student conducting a study about celebrity endorsement for branded food and beverage products in the US is seeking male and female participants ages 23-36 who are US citizens, racially and ethnically diverse, including Latino/Hispanic, African and Asian American. The student has the majority of the participants she needs, but still needs male Asian Americans and African Americans and female Hispanic-Americans.The study involves completing three activities: celebrity recognition survey, celebrity picture card sort, and a post-card sort questionnaire, which will take no more than 60 minutes to complete. Participants will receive a $10.00-dollar Amazon gift card after completing all study activities. If interested, contact Mi Zhou at mi14@vt.edu.

Upcoming events:

VTGrATE: INFO SESSION: MIGRATING FROM SCHOLAR AND MORE
Monday, Apr 17, 10:30am-12pm, GLC Room G
As part of our theme for the month of April on Technology for use by Graduate Teaching Assistants, the VT Graduate Academy of Teaching Excellence presents an info session for GTAs on using Technology for teaching. Graduate Assistants from the College of Engineering’s Information Technology Team will help provide one-on-one assistance to your questions about technology use. Come by for help migrating from Scholar, using Canvas for large classes, etc.

PROFESSIONALIZING YOUR WRITING
Monday, Apr 17, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Room C
Graduate student coaches from the writing center will provide guidance on understanding writing tasks rhetorically, exploring common writing mistakes and recognizing and fixing your own, and developing strategies for improving the clarity of your writing. Register at http://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing if interested in attending.

GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING
Monday, Apr 17, 3:30-4:30pm, GLC Room A
Do you think upholding academic integrity at Virginia Tech is important? If so, then you may want to serve as a panelist for the Graduate Honor System.  The GHS is looking for both faculty and students to join a volunteer team of panelists who serve on investigative and judicial panels and may hold information sessions/orientations to academic departments about the GHS.  To become a panelist, you must attend a one-hour training session, and then may start serving on judicial hearing panels. If you can’t attend this session, another one will be offered on Friday, April 28 at 9:00am. Email to ghs@vt.edu with any questions.

GSA GRAD JOBS WEEK
Monday, Apr 17 to Friday, Apr 21
Are you feeling nervous about life after your degree? Join us for a week of talks, workshops, and career preparation, all focused career-planning after your advanced degree. The second half of the week will feature Maren Wood, PhD, who will focus on alternative careers outside of academia. For a schedule with more specific information about events, times, and locations, visit the Grad Jobs Week Facebook event page at http://tinyurl.com/fb-gradjobsweek. Space at some events is limited. To RSVP, visit http://tinyurl.com/rsvp-gradjobsweek.

WII NIGHT WITH THE FELLOWS
Tuesday, Apr 18, 5-7pm, GLC Student Lounge
Take a break from studying and working on projects to challenge other students in a board game or game on the Nintendo Wii. Snacks will be provided. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.

VALUING KNOWLEDGE: A VT GrATE TEACH-IN
Tuesday, Apr 18, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Room F, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Auditorium
The Virginia Tech Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence (VT GrATE) is proud to present “Valuing Knowledge: A VT GrATE Teach-In.” As graduate students, instructors, and members of the Virginia Tech community, we affirm our commitment to valuing and respecting all forms of knowledge. We seek strength in diversity and believe that understanding across differences is necessary to build community both in and out of the classroom. Through interactive workshops, panel discussions, and presentations, we invite dialogue on topical issues ranging from communicating science to fostering inclusive classroom environments and beyond. Everyone is welcome at this non-partisan event. Light refreshments will be available. We also invite all participants to join VT GrATE and the Coalition for Justice at the Satellite March for Science on April 22nd, beginning at 4:30 PM on Henderson Lawn.

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP LUNCHEON – Sign up now!
Wednesday, Apr 19, 12-1pm, Blacksburg Community Center
Enjoy lunch from 12-1pm in the Community Room and learn about the many programs the Blacksburg Aquatic Center has to offer families.  After lunch, families can go have a swim for FREE at the Aquatic Center so bring your swimsuits and towels! Please sign-up for this luncheon at the survey link listed below, and indicate the number of people total who will be attending, including children. Contact childcare@vt.edu with questions. http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-april

UndocuAlly TRAINING WORKSHOP – Sign-up now!
Saturday, Apr 22, 12-4pm, Torgersen 1020
The mission of Tech DREAMers is to create a more inclusive environment for all undocumented students at Virginia Tech through education and advocacy. One of the ways we hope to achieve our mission is through “UndocuAlly” training sessions in which we invite faculty, staff and students at Virginia Tech to increase their knowledge of issues relating to undocumented students in Virginia. Lunch will be provided.  If you plan on participating, you must sign up – please only sign-up if you know you can attend: https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScbmv5HNHljeqnIWoOGT1XpvpZLHGDumJpUn7ilTluUZJmRbA/viewform?usp=sf_link

HIP HOP MEETS THE MUSIC OF INDIA
Sunday, Apr 23, 7:30pm, Burruss Auditorium
Grammy nominated Progressive Hip-Hop artist Christylez Bacon and prominent Indian classical violinist Nistha Raj along with Avi Shah (tabla), Brian Falkowski (flute and sax)  and Todd Simon (keys) will be performing at this fusion music concert sponsored by the Association for India’s Development (AID). More information can be found on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1810729489248434/

2^ND ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – sign up now!
Thursday, May 11, 9:00-11:00am, GLC Auditorium
Graduating international students are invited to this ceremony to celebrate the achievements of undergraduate and graduate international students, and highlight the important contributions that international students make throughout the university and the broader community. The program will feature remarks from a keynote speaker as well as an undergrad and a grad student speaker. Participating students will receive a stole they are able to wear during the grad and undergrad commencement ceremonies. Registration is required at http://baseline.campuslabs.com/vpiasu/vtcac17 by April 15. If you have questions, contact international@vt.edu or call 231-6527.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 3/13/2017

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

2. STUDENT ENGINEERS ABROAD COUNCIL POSTER SHOWCASE AND PANEL
Tuesday, Apr 4, 6:00pm, Surge 109
From 6-6:30pm, listen to a group of student panelists speak about internships, study abroad and international service followed by Q&A. From 6:30-7pm, the event will turn into an informal poster hall. Stay to check out student study abroad posters and enjoy free catered Sub Station!

3. THE FINAL PIECE: EVALUATING AND NEGOTIATING OFFERS
Wednesday, Apr 5, 5:30-6:30pm, Room F
It’s the call you’ve been waiting for: a job offer! What should you consider before you say yes? Attend this session to find out items to focus on as you review your offer and learn tips for salary negotiation. Please register in advance: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_bNIIAbH4OQV2j2Z

4. ANXIETY/OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Wednesday, Apr 5, 6:30-7:30pm, GLC Room A
Do you need help dealing with your anxiety? With obsessive and/or compulsive symptoms? You don’t have to battle alone, join others struggling with these difficulties. Learn tools and strategies to properly manage your anxiety and/or OCD. Understand the role anxiety and discomfort may play in your life. Email Lauren Delk, from the Virginia Tech Psychological Services Center, at ladelk@vt.edu <mailto:ladelk@vt.edu>  for more information.

5. BREAKFAST WITH THE DEAN: ROANOKE EDITION
Thursday, Apr 6, 9:00am-11:00am, VTCRI Room 3012
Do you love breakfast as much as Ron Swanson? Are you a VT graduate student that lives and/or works in Roanoke? Do you have a topic you’re longing to discuss with Dean Karen DePauw of the Graduate School? If you said "yes" to any of these questions, then mark your calendars for a special Roanoke Edition of Breakfast with the Dean. This event is free to all graduate students, and will be held at the Virginia Tech Carillon Research Institute (VTCRI) in Room 3012. Breakfast will be provided. Contact kiwi@vt.edu with any additional questions.

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 6, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can. 

7. STRESS MANAGEMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Friday, Apr 7, 2:00-3:30pm, GLC Room C
Are you stressed by the current political environment? Are you from a country that is impacted by recent executive orders? Cook Counseling Center is offering this group session for international students to help them manage their anxieties and develop coping techniques.

8. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM APPLICATION – APR 4-11 – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open for applications on April 4th and close on April 11th at 11:59PM. The application guide is now available on the GSA website (http://tinyurl.com/GSATravelFund). This program can provide partial support for professional or conference travel occurring between January 1 and July 31, 2017. If you have questions, contact TFP Chair Zack Shiner at gsaTravelFund@gmail.com

9. HELP CREATE A THEME FOR BIANNUAL BLACK ALUMNI REUNION – 2nd posting
Students are invited to submit ideas for the celebration of Black Alumni Reunion, which this year marks 50 years of black organizations at VT, including 50th anniversary of Groove Phi Groove, 50th anniversary of the Human Relations Council, a celebration of 45 years of NPHC at VT, and 40th Anniversary of BSA. Help to create a theme for the reunion by submitting an entry to Latanya Walker, latanya@vt.edu <mailto:latanya@vt.edu> . If your theme is chosen, you will receive a bag of Hokie gifts to add to your collection.

10. GSA "DR. RICH" CAP & GOWN PROGRAM FOR GRADS: LOTTERY OPEN MAR 27-APR 14 – 2nd  posting
If you are graduating this spring and/or participating in commencement ceremonies, you are eligible to borrow a graduate cap and gown from the GSA for free! The "Dr. Rich" Cap & Gown Program loans a limited number of gowns and caps to grad students participating in Spring 2017 graduation ceremonies via a lottery. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA in acceptable condition for cleaning and use by future graduating students. Enter the lottery at http://tinyurl.com/gsacapgown-spring17 by Friday, Apr 14 at 5pm EDT. Those chosen in the lottery will be notified no later than Apr 21, and must still purchase their own hoods, tassels, and any other required regalia. All items are used, but gowns have been dry cleaned and steamed, and caps have been disinfected. Questions? Email gsacapgown@gmail.com.

11. DISSERTATION INSTITUTE FOR UNDERREPRESENTED GRADS IN ENGINEERING – 2nd posting
The 2017 Dissertation Institute, an interactive workshop for underrepresented (African American, native American, Pacific Island and Hispanic American) graduate students in engineering, addresses issues that prolong completion times for those at the dissertation proposal preparation and dissertation completion stages. The Institute is funded by NSF and hosted by Old Dominion University and VT. The Dissertation Institute will take place June 11–16 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County campus and focus on skills and strategies needed to successfully complete the dissertation process and provide networking opportunities to build connections for future collaborative career advancement. Participants will build writing habits, work on their dissertation or proposal, and learn skills that will help them continue making progress. Housing and meals provided; reimbursement for travel costs up to $500. Learn more at www.dissertationinstitute.com; send questions to dissertationinstitute@gmail.com. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Mayra Artiles.

12. NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR INNOVATIVE ETD AWARDS – 3rd posting
Virginia Tech is a member of the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD), and NDLTD is seeking nominations for student awards. Several annual awards, each $1,000 are for innovative multimedia ETDs, or ETDs demonstrating innovation in other ways.  Current students whose ETDs will be produced later may want to keep this opportunity in mind as they undertake their research. See announcement at http://www.ndltd.org. Application deadline: May 31, 2017.

13. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS INVITED TO JOIN LOCAL GROUP – 3rd posting
Returned Peace Corps volunteer or staff are invited to join a growing local group of fellow volunteers and staff of over 70. Contacting peacecorps@vt.edu. Posted on behalf of grad student Rachael Kennedy.

14. ON-CAMPUS HOUSING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 3rd posting
Housing & Residence Life is currently accepting students for on-campus housing for the 2017-2018 school year. The GLC at Donaldson Brown and Main Campbell Hall are open to graduate students interested in living in double or single rooms. For room rates and more information, visit: http://housing.vt.edu/contracts/apply/graduate_students.html or contact housing@vt.edu.

15. TWO GA POSITIONS IN MAOP FOR 2017-18 – 1st posting
The Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program is seeking two full time GAs for next year to assist with the planning, delivery and assessment of support programs. Must have high level of initiative and strong interpersonal, organizational, leadership, and presentation skills; must be able to comfortably interact with all individuals in a diverse, multicultural environment. Occasional evening and weekend work required. Must have regular office hours. Preference given to students in master’s program in education or related fields. Submit a resume and cover letter to Monica Hunter at monicah@vt.edu. Resumes will be accepted until position is filled.

16. GA POSITION IN GLOBAL ENGINEERING, ENGAGEMENT AND RESEARCH-1st posting
The Office of Global Engineering, Engagement and Research in the College of Engineering has a graduate assistantship opening beginning Fall 2017. This is a full-time assistantship (20 hours per week) open to masters or PhD level students. The GA will support a number of international initiatives in the college. A background and interest in international education, study abroad program coordination, and international research is a plus. Interested students may submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to April Keene at ipitadmin@vt.edu <mailto:ipitadmin@vt.edu> . Students should include “GEER GA” in the subject line of their email. Materials must be received by Wednesday, April 12, 2017.

17.  FULL-TIME GA POSITION IN CONTROLLER’S OFFICE FOR 2017-18 – 3rd posting
The Controller’s Office is seeking a full-time (20 hrs/wk) graduate assistant to work in the areas of general accounting, payroll, and accounts payable. Position begins in Aug. Duties include working on Retirement System calculations and assisting with ensuring that the deductions are correct; assisting with the review, monitoring and follow-up of special faculty payments to ensure compliance with university policies; assisting with the documentation and implementation of the new version VT’s electronic timekeeping system; and other tasks. Additional info at https://drive.google.com/a/vt.edu/file/d/0B2lSMLVxGF10ZnR1dGU4RnN1TGM/view?usp=sharing.  Submit a cover letter, resume and three references at  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1TFlanV7PpVW12B. Contact Kim Linkous, 540-231-8560 or linkousk@vt.edu <mailto:linkousk@vt.edu>  with questions. 

18. GA OPENING IN STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER – 3rd posting
The graduate assistant (20 hours/week) reports to an Assistant Director in the SSC. The GA will be responsible for assisting with the planning and delivery of several academic support programs. Position requires a high level of initiative and strong interpersonal, organizational, leadership, and presentation skills. Weekly evening hours and occasional weekend work required. Interested applicants should submit a resume to Sachim@vt.edu <mailto:Sachim@vt.edu>   Resumes will be accepted until position is filled. For questions contact Sachiel Mondesir at Sachim@vt.edu <mailto:Sachim@vt.edu>   Full job description at  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOlgAsl50HXQkZCSG91YnZremc/view?ths=true.

19. PT GRAD OPENING FOR PEACE COPRS RECRUITER POSITION – 3rd posting
The VT Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is searching for a graduate student who is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) to serve as the Campus Peace Corps Recruiter part-time (20 hours/week). The recruiter will serve as the main point of contact at VT and other local universities for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps. Position begins fall 2017 and runs through spring 2018. The successful candidate will receive graduate school tuition remission and a stipend equivalent to a graduate assistantship in his/her department. Application deadline: Friday, May 12. See more at :  http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-opportunities/campus-peace-corps-recruiter-part-time/ <http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-opportunities/campus-peace-corps-recruiter-part-time/> . 

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE CARD SORTING STUDY – 1st posting
VT IT is conducting an online card sorting study to explore how best to organize information presented within the IT Service Catalog. Qualifying participants will receive $5 Jimmy John’s gift card.  Participants first complete a demographic questionnaire, then, use an online card sorting tool and get several cards, each of which will be printed with an element of the Service Catalog. You will then organize the cards into categories that make the most sense to you. The online session will last 30-40 minutes, anytime and anywhere at your convenience. The study will continue through April 7. Once you agree to participate, you will be sent the online card sorting link. Contact itee-ux@vt.edu <mailto:itee-UX@vt.edu>  for information or to participate.

21. GSA GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM REVIEW HELP NEEDED – 2nd posting
Want to know the cutting-edge research graduate students are conducting here at VT? How about a new line on your CV? The GSA needs your help with reviewing applications for the Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP). Grad students in the social sciences, business, humanities, or education are needed to review applications.  If you are willing to be a reviewer, fill out this survey: https://tinyurl.com/GRDPreview, and the GRDP Chair will email you further instructions. If you want more details about what is entailed in reviewing or have any other questions, contact GRDP Chair Adwoa Baah-Dwomoh at gsaGRDP@gmail.com <mailto:gsaGRDP@gmail.com>

22. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON HEALTH, DIET & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REWARDS – 2nd posting
Volunteers needed for a study examining whether delayed discounting (small reward now or larger reward later) is related to health, diet, and physical activity level. Must be: male or female, any race and ethnicity; ages of 18-65; Body Mass Index between 22-40 kg/m2; not trying to gain or lose weight; have not gained or lost weight in the past 6 months; willing to participate in two testing sessions (~ 5 hrs of time); willing to have blood drawn, body fat assessed, an oral glucose tolerance test, fill out questionnaires related to diet and physical activity, and wear a physical activity monitor for 4 days. Participants will receive information related to body composition, diet and physical activity level, and blood glucose and lipids (cholesterol).  The total amount possible for participation is $60.  If interested, contact the VT Skeletal Muscle Substrate Metabolism Lab: vtsmsmlab@gmail.com, 540-739-2522.

23. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN STUDY ABOUT WEARABLE EXOSKELETONS – 2nd posting
Must be male or female; 18-55 years old; no current or recent history of musculoskeletal disorders. Experiment Details: participants will be asked to perform a simulated drilling task without and with three exoskeletons. Two experimental sessions (each ~3.5 hour) are required to complete the study. Compensation: $10/hour. If interested, call or email Saad Alabdulkarim at iesaad@vt.edu <mailto:iesaad@vt.edu> , (206-859- 9146). 

24. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF CELEBRITY ENDORSED FOOD/DRINK PRODUCTS – 2nd  posting
A Ph.D. student conducting a study about celebrity endorsement for branded food and beverage products in the US is seeking 40 male and female participants ages 23-36 who are US citizens, racially and ethnically diverse, including Latino/Hispanic, African and Asian American. The study involves completing three activities: celebrity recognition survey, celebrity picture card sort, and a post-card sort questionnaire, which will take no more than 60 minutes to complete. Participants will receive a $10.00-dollar Amazon gift card after completing all study activities. If interested, contact Mi Zhou at mi14@vt.edu.

25. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF MOBILE AUGMENTED REALITY APPLICATIONS – 3rd posting
The Information Technology and Security Lab is conducting research on augmented reality and its personal and professional impact on awareness of threats to cybersecurity and privacy. Volunteers 18 or older are sought, with or without technical experience who are willing to use both AR and non-AR mobile applications to perform investigative tasks and answer questions about their experiences. Tasks involve walking in and around Newman Library. The entire survey will take approximately 60 minutes. Volunteers are assured that personal information will remain confidential and will never be published in any way. If interested in participating, contact Brendan Mattina at mbrend15@vt.edu, 603-953-7060.

26. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF MIDDLE EASTERN IMMIGRANT WOMEN – 3rd posting
Grad student Taysir Al Janabi is seeking participants for a capstone project research study regarding the perceptions of sexual assault and rape among Middle Eastern immigrant women in the southwest area of Virginia. Middle Eastern immigrant women who identify as Muslims and are interested in participating should email Taysir80@vt.edu   or call 540-251-1006.

Upcoming events:

COMMUNITY VOICES PRESENTS: THE INDEPENDENCE OF THE INTL CIVIL SERVANT
Monday, Apr 10, 12:00-1:00pm
Francesco Manca, a retired senior United Nations official, is featured at this roundtable discussion on “The independence of the international civil servant:  a duty or an option?”.  The roundtable will be followed by a Trustees Without Boarders podcast interview.  The event is sponsored by the College of Architecture and Urban Studies, SPIA, the Division of Student Affairs, the Institute for Society, Culture and Environment, the Institute for Policy and Governance, OIRED, the Dept of Agricultural Leadership and Community Education, and Dean’s Advisory Committee on International Initiatives. Bring your own lunch or register for a $5 lunch at regina50@vt.edu <mailto:regina50@vt.edu> . Admission is free.

OPEN DATA WEEK APR 10-13
Open Data week offers opportunities to learn more about sharing, visualizing, finding, mining, and reusing data for research. Full schedule and more info: http://bit.ly/VTopendataweek2017. Registration is requested at http://guides.lib.vt.edu/OpenDataWeek/RSVP.

START SMART: SALARY NEGOTIATION FOR WOMEN
Tuesday, Apr 11, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room C
This workshop is designed to empower women and provide them with the tools to negotiate salaries and benefits as they approach the job market. Participants work through some exercises to learn negotiation skills, understand the personal consequences of the gender wage gap, review how to benchmark salaries and benefits, and gain insight into their own bottom line and personal budget. Please register if you are planning to attend: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0fhAKGIVwkz1Bw9.

APPALACHIAN “MEET ‘N EAT”
Tuesday, Apr 11, 12:00-1:30pm, American Indian & Indigenous Community Center
All students, faculty and staff who identify as Appalachian are welcome to join for good pizza, good friends and good conversation. The center is located on the ground floor of Squires, to the left of the information desk. Bring a story, memory or object that reminds you of home and share your experiences with other members of the community! Interested participants should fill out a brief survey at http://tinyurl.com/appmeetneat4. For more information, contact grad student Amanda Halliburton (ahallibu@vt.edu <mailto:ahallibu@vt.edu> ).

PROFESSIONALIZING YOUR WRITING
Monday, Apr 17, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Room C
Graduate student coaches from the writing center will provide guidance on understanding writing tasks rhetorically, exploring common writing mistakes and recognizing and fixing your own, and developing strategies for improving the clarity of your writing. Register at http://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing if interested in attending.

VALUING KNOWLEDGE: A VT GrATE TEACH-IN
Tuesday, Apr 18, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Room F, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Auditorium
The Virginia Tech Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence (VT GrATE) is proud to present “Valuing Knowledge: A VT GrATE Teach-In.” As graduate students, instructors, and members of the Virginia Tech community, we affirm our commitment to valuing and respecting all forms of knowledge. We seek strength in diversity and believe that understanding across differences is necessary to build community both in and out of the classroom. Through interactive workshops, panel discussions, and presentations, we invite dialogue on topical issues ranging from communicating science to fostering inclusive classroom environments and beyond. Everyone is welcome at this non-partisan event. Light refreshments will be available. We also invite all participants to join VT GrATE and the Coalition for Justice at the Satellite March for Science on April 22nd, beginning at 4:30 PM on Henderson Lawn. 

2ND ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – sign up now!
Thursday, May 11, 9:00-11:00am, GLC Auditorium
Graduating international students are invited to this ceremony to celebrate the achievements of undergraduate and graduate international students, and highlight the important contributions that international students make throughout the university and the broader community. The program will feature remarks from a keynote speaker as well as an undergrad and a grad student speaker. Participating students will receive a stole they are able to wear during the grad and undergrad commencement ceremonies. Registration is required at http://baseline.campuslabs.com/vpiasu/vtcac17 by April 15. If you have questions, contact international@vt.edu <mailto:international@vt.edu>  or call 231-6527.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 3/13/2017

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

2. OPEN EDUCATION WEEK MAR 27-31
Open Education Week sponsored by VT Libraries features events for faculty, future faculty and anyone who teaches. More information at: http://www.lib.vt.edu/oer/oe-week/2017-oeweek.html. Two events might be of particular interest to graduate students: (1) Seven Platforms You Should Know About: Share, Find, Author, or Adapt Creative Commons-Licensed Resources and (2) The Potential of Open Educational Resources: Virginia Tech Faculty & Student Panel Discussion.

3. CITIZEN SCHOLAR RECOGNITION CEREMONY
Monday, Mar 27, 4:00pm, GLC Room F
Listen to the presentations of grad students who put theory into practice for the advancement of a community.

4. PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S PANEL DISCUSSION
Monday, Mar 27, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Hear from faculty and staff around the university about their experiences as women in the professional world. Learn strategies and hear suggestions for navigating and balancing the workplace and life, and get your own questions answered. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a5yqlM01mZhwB25.

5. REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW – 1st posting
Tuesday, Mar 28, 7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose room
Learn how to format your Electronic Thesis/Dissertation (ETD), what Graduate School staff look for in their review, and what happens to it after you submit it to the Graduate School.  Bring your laptop and a PDF copy of your ETD.

6. GRAD MOVIE NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: THE SALESMAN
Tuesday, Mar 28, 7:00pm and 9:30pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy free a night at the movies, compliments of the Graduate School and The Lyric.  Pick up a free ticket at the GLC Welcome Center or in 120 GLC. Learn more about the movie http://www.thelyric.com/event/the-salesman/.

7. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AND EXPO
Wednesday, Mar 29, 9:00am-4:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room and meeting rooms
Review the latest in graduate research at this interactive networking forum and poster session sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

8. LINKEDIN LAB
Wednesday, Mar 29, 2:00-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby
Have a free professional headshot photograph taken and learn about how you can use LinkedIn in your job search, and have your profile reviewed by Career and Professional Development staff.  Wear appropriate shirt/top.

9. GSA SYMPOSIUM KEYNOTE: EDWARD TENNER
Wednesday, Mar 29, 6:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Edward Tenner is a historian who discusses the unintended outcomes of science and technology and the indirect paths that people take toward making discoveries. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

10. BREAKFAST WITH THE DEAN
Thursday, Mar 30, 8:00am-9:00am, Graduate Life Center Lounge
Celebrate Grad Ed Week with this March installment of the Breakfast with the Dean! The GSA will provide the food; you provide the questions and conversation. RSVP on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/deanbreakfast-march2017.

11. CULTURAL CENTERS TOUR
Thursday, Mar 30, 12:00-1:00pm, Meet at the GLC Welcome Center Desk
Learn about the five different cultural centers housed in Squires Student Center, what is offered in each, and how students can reserve the space. Meet at the GLC Welcome Center desk and walk to Squires together for the tour, which will end in the Black Cultural Center with a pizza lunch.  Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3a60e7t3DAfdyjr. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows and the Intercultural Engagement Center <http://iec.vt.edu/advocacy/Cultural_Community_Centers.html> .

12. GLC CAFÉ: EXPLORE COFFEE AND TEA FROM AROUND THE WORLD
Thursday, Mar 30, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! To follow the Grad Ed Week theme of Live.Learn.Explore., this weeks café will feature a variety of coffee, tea and cookies from around the world. Bring your own mug if you can.

13. MINDFULNESS STRESS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES
Friday, Mar 31, 1:00pm, GLC Room B
Participate in an interactive introduction to mindfulness-based stress management techniques and enjoy light refreshments. Topics covered will include Imposter Syndrome and interacting with advisors. Sign up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9MszSLpk6oZlUFf.

14. BIG COOK OUT
Friday, Mar 31, 4:30-6:30, Grad School Lawn and GLC Multipurpose Room
Graduate students and their families are invited to enjoy food, music and games at this Grad-School-sponsored closing event of Graduate Education Week.  DJ sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

15. NATIVE AT VT SPRING POWWOW
Saturday, Apr 1, 12:00-6:00pm, GLC Lawn
Hosted by Native at Virginia Tech student organization, this is a Native American cultural event to create visibility of an underrepresented group on campus and engage the campus in cultural education. All are welcome, attendance free. Rain Location: Old Dominion Ballroom (Squires). Posted on behalf of grad student Melissa Faircloth, missy86@vt.edu.

16. FINISH GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK WITH GSA SPRING BEER & WINE SOCIAL
Saturday, Apr 1, 3:00pm-7:00pm, University Club
Join the GSA to celebrate the conclusion of Graduate Education Week with the annual Spring Beer & Wine Social and Tasting. Buy advance tickets online for $8 through Mar 24, or for $10 online Mar 25-31. Tickets at the door will be $12; non-drinking tickets will be $5, and there will be a $1 at-door fee for credit card transactions. Light refreshments and snacks will be free with admission. This social is for students 21 and over only. Check out the event at http://tinyurl.com/beer-wine-spring2017-fb and RSVP and share! Email Kisha (kiwi@vt.edu <mailto:kiwi@vt.edu> ) with questions.

17. HELP CREATE A THEME FOR BIANNUAL BLACK ALUMNI REUNION – 1st posting
Students are invited to submit ideas for the celebration of Black Alumni Reunion, which this year marks 50 years of black organizations at VT, including 50th anniversary of Groove Phi Groove, 50th anniversary of the Human Relations Council, a celebration of 45 years of NPHC at VT, and 40th Anniversary of BSA. Help to create a theme for the reunion by submitting an entry to Latanya Walker, latanya@vt.edu <mailto:latanya@vt.edu> . If your theme is chosen, you will receive a bag of Hokie gifts to add to your collection.

18. GSA "DR. RICH" CAP & GOWN PROGRAM FOR GRADS: LOTTERY OPEN MAR 27-APR 14 – 1st posting
If you are graduating this spring and/or participating in commencement ceremonies, you are eligible to borrow a graduate cap and gown from the GSA for free! The "Dr. Rich" Cap & Gown Program loans a limited number of gowns and caps to grad students participating in Spring 2017 graduation ceremonies via a lottery. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA in acceptable condition for cleaning and use by future graduating students. Enter the lottery at http://tinyurl.com/gsacapgown-spring17 by Friday, Apr 14 at 5pm EDT. Those chosen in the lottery will be notified no later than Apr 21, and must still purchase their own hoods, tassels, and any other required regalia. All items are used, but gowns have been dry cleaned and steamed, and caps have been disinfected. Questions? Email gsacapgown@gmail.com <mailto:gsacapgown@gmail.com> .

19. DISSERTATION INSTITUTE FOR UNDERREPRESENTED GRADS IN ENGINEERING – 1st posting
The 2017 Dissertation Institute, an interactive workshop for underrepresented (African American, native American, Pacific Island and Hispanic American) graduate students in engineering, addresses issues that prolong completion times for those at the dissertation proposal preparation and dissertation completion stages. The Institute is funded by NSF and hosted by Old Dominion University and VT. The Dissertation Institute will take place June 11–16 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County campus and focus on skills and strategies needed to successfully complete the dissertation process and provide networking opportunities to build connections for future collaborative career advancement. Participants will build writing habits, work on their dissertation or proposal, and learn skills that will help them continue making progress. Housing and meals provided; reimbursement for travel costs up to $500. Learn more at www.dissertationinstitute.com <http://www.dissertationinstitute.com/> ; send questions to dissertationinstitute@gmail.com <mailto:dissertationinstitute@gmail.com> . Posted on behalf of doctoral student Mayra Artiles.

20. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE GLC WEEKLY APRIL-1 SPECIAL EDITION – 2nd posting
Get published in a peer-viewed online weekly notice: Submit your fake event description, faux call for research subjects, and other nonexistent opportunities for graduate students for the April 1 special edition of the GLC weekly listserv posting. Exercise your imagination and writing skills and earn extra points (in the form of chocolates and candy in 117 GLC) for a creative event or research idea, succinct description, and completeness of details. Submission deadline: March 31, 6:00pm. Send to gibsonm@vt.edu, with subject line: You are a fool.

21. NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR INNOVATIVE ETD AWARDS – 2nd posting
Virginia Tech is a member of the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD), and NDLTD is seeking nominations for student awards. Several annual awards, each $1,000 are for innovative multimedia ETDs, or ETDs demonstrating innovation in other ways.  Current students whose ETDs will be produced later may want to keep this opportunity in mind as they undertake their research. See announcement at http://www.ndltd.org. Application deadline: May 31, 2017.

22. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS INVITED TO JOIN LOCAL GROUP – 2nd posting
Returned Peace Corps volunteer or staff are invited to join a growing local group of fellow volunteers and staff of over 70. Contacting peacecorps@vt.edu. Posted on behalf of grad student Rachael Kennedy.

23. ON-CAMPUS HOUSING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 2nd posting
Housing & Residence Life is currently accepting students for on-campus housing for the 2017-2018 school year. The GLC at Donaldson Brown and Main Campbell Hall are open to graduate students interested in living in double or single rooms. For room rates and more information, visit: http://housing.vt.edu/contracts/apply/graduate_students.html or contact housing@vt.edu <mailto:housing@vt.edu> .

24. VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – 3rd posting
For graduate students interested in learning more about the administration of state government: full information at https://governor.virginia.gov/fellows/.  A minimum $2000 stipend is available through Career and Professional Development for any selected VT student.  Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu <mailto:amcphers@vt.edu>  for more information about the stipend. Application deadline: Mar 31, 2017.

25. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR TORGERSEN AWARD – 3rd posting
The submission are accepted for the Paul E. Torgersen Awards, aimed at highlighting the top research performed in the College of Engineering. To be eligible, you must be graduating in the calendar year of 2017. Submissions include an abstract on your research, written such that a general audience could understand it. Submissions are due to Ms. Crawford (bcrawfrd@vt.edu <mailto:bcrawfrd@vt.edu> ) by Mar 31 by 11:59pm. More information at http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.htm.  <http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.html>

26. FULL-TIME GA POSITION IN CONTROLLER’S OFFICE FOR 2017-18 – 2nd posting
The Controller’s Office is seeking a full-time (20 hrs/wk) graduate assistant to work in the areas of general accounting, payroll, and accounts payable. Position begins in Aug. Duties include working on Retirement System calculations and assisting with ensuring that the deductions are correct; assisting with the review, monitoring and follow-up of special faculty payments to ensure compliance with university policies; assisting with the documentation and implementation of the new version VT’s electronic timekeeping system; and other tasks. Additional info at https://drive.google.com/a/vt.edu/file/d/0B2lSMLVxGF10ZnR1dGU4RnN1TGM/view?usp=sharing.  Submit a cover letter, resume and three references at  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1TFlanV7PpVW12B. Contact Kim Linkous, 540-231-8560 or linkousk@vt.edu <mailto:linkousk@vt.edu>  with questions.

27. GA OPENING IN STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER – 2nd posting
The graduate assistant (20 hours/week) reports to an Assistant Director in the SSC. The GA will be responsible for assisting with the planning and delivery of several academic support programs. Position requires a high level of initiative and strong interpersonal, organizational, leadership, and presentation skills. Weekly evening hours and occasional weekend work required. Interested applicants should submit a resume to Sachim@vt.edu <mailto:Sachim@vt.edu>   Resumes will be accepted until position is filled. For questions contact Sachiel Mondesir at Sachim@vt.edu <mailto:Sachim@vt.edu>   Full job description at  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOlgAsl50HXQkZCSG91YnZremc/view?ths=true.

28. GA OPENING IN SUSTAINABILITY OFFICE – 2nd posting
The Office of Sustainability in the Facilities Department is seeking a Graduate Assistant to support efforts to educate the VT community about how to live a more sustainable and low-impact lifestyle. Applicants must have previous work experience and/or extracurricular activities experience in fields relating to sustainability. For more information, see http://facilities.vt.edu/content/dam/facilities_vt_edu/office-of-sustainability-graduate-assistant.pdf. Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6D0xQ8tqjEhJBHv&Q_JFE=0. For full consideration, apply before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Mar 31. Contact Karlee Siepierski at skarlee3@vt.edu <mailto:skarlee3@vt.edu>  with questions.

29. PT GRAD OPENING FOR PEACE COPRS RECRUITER POSITION – 2nd posting
The VT Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is searching for a graduate student who is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) to serve as the Campus Peace Corps Recruiter part-time (20 hours/week). The recruiter will serve as the main point of contact at VT and other local universities for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps. Position begins fall 2017 and runs through spring 2018. The successful candidate will receive graduate school tuition remission and a stipend equivalent to a graduate assistantship in his/her department. Application deadline: Friday, May 12. See more at :  http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-opportunities/campus-peace-corps-recruiter-part-time/.

30. GSA GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM REVIEW HELP NEEDED – 1st posting
Want to know the cutting-edge research graduate students are conducting here at VT? How about a new line on your CV? The GSA needs your help with reviewing applications for the Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP). Grad students in the social sciences, business, humanities, or education are needed to review applications.  If you are willing to be a reviewer, fill out this survey: https://tinyurl.com/GRDPreview, and the GRDP Chair will email you further instructions. If you want more details about what is entailed in reviewing or have any other questions, contact GRDP Chair Adwoa Baah-Dwomoh at gsaGRDP@gmail.com <mailto:gsaGRDP@gmail.com> .

31. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON HEALTH, DIET & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REWARDS – 1st posting
Volunteers needed for a study examining whether delayed discounting (small reward now or larger reward later) is related to health, diet, and physical activity level. Must be: male or female, any race and ethnicity; ages of 18-65; Body Mass Index between 22-40 kg/m2; not trying to gain or lose weight; have not gained or lost weight in the past 6 months; willing to participate in two testing sessions (~ 5 hrs of time); willing to have blood drawn, body fat assessed, an oral glucose tolerance test, fill out questionnaires related to diet and physical activity, and wear a physical activity monitor for 4 days. Participants will receive information related to body composition, diet and physical activity level, and blood glucose and lipids (cholesterol).  The total amount possible for participation is $60.  If interested, contact the VT Skeletal Muscle Substrate Metabolism Lab: vtsmsmlab@gmail.com , 540-739-2522.

32. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN STUDY ABOUT WEARABLE EXOSKELETONS – 1st posting
Must be male or female; 18-55 years old; no current or recent history of musculoskeletal disorders. Experiment Details: participants will be asked to perform a simulated drilling task without and with three exoskeletons. Two experimental sessions (each ~3.5 hour) are required to complete the study. Compensation: $10/hour. If interested, call or email Saad Alabdulkarim at iesaad@vt.edu, (206-859- 9146).

33. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF CELEBRITY ENDORSED FOOD/DRINK PRODUCTS – 1st posting
Ph.D. student conducting a study about celebrity endorsement for branded food and beverage products in the US is seeking 40 male and female participants ages 23-36 who are US citizens, racially and ethnically diverse, including Latino/Hispanic, African and Asian American. The study involves completing three activities: celebrity recognition survey, celebrity picture card sort, and a post-card sort questionnaire, which will take no more than 60 minutes to complete. Participants will receive a $10.00-dollar Amazon gift card after completing all study activities. If interested, contact Mi Zhou at mi14@vt.edu.

34. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF MOBILE AUGMENTED REALITY APPLICATIONS – 2nd posting
The Information Technology and Security Lab is conducting research on augmented reality and its personal and professional impact on awareness of threats to cybersecurity and privacy. Volunteers 18 or older are sought, with or without technical experience who are willing to use both AR and non-AR mobile applications to perform investigative tasks and answer questions about their experiences. Tasks involve walking in and around Newman Library. The entire survey will take approximately 60 minutes. Volunteers are assured that personal information will remain confidential and will never be published in any way. If interested in participating, contact Brendan Mattina at mbrend15@vt.edu <mailto:mbrend15@vt.edu> , 603-953-7060.

35. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF MIDDLE EASTERN IMMIGRANT WOMEN – 2nd posting
Grad student Taysir Al Janabi is seeking participants for a capstone project research study regarding the perceptions of sexual assault and rape among Middle Eastern immigrant women in the southwest area of Virginia. Middle Eastern immigrant women who identify as Muslims and are interested in participating should email Taysir80@vt.edu <mailto:Taysir80@vt.edu>  or call 540-251-1006.

36. STUDENTS SOUGHT TO ASSIST WITH PRE-DEPARTURE ORIENTATION PROGRAMS – 3rd posting
Grad students who has spent time in the following countries or are international students from: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, South Africa, South Korea, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Sweden or Thailand are sought by VT Global Education to assist with pre-departure orientation programs scheduled for Tuesday, Apr 18, Goodwin Hall, 8:00pm – 9:30pm for students who will be leaving soon to study abroad in Summer/Fall 2017.  A vital part of this program is hearing from students who are from or familiar with the above listed countries during break-out sessions, which are often the most helpful and enjoyable part of the event. Contact Laura Castle if you are willing to help: lecastle@vt.edu <mailto:lecastle@vt.edu> .

Upcoming events:

OPEN DATA WEEK APR 10-1
Open Data week offers opportunities to learn more about sharing, visualizing, finding, mining, and reusing data for research. Full schedule and more info: http://bit.ly/VTopendataweek2017. Registration is requested at http://guides.lib.vt.edu/OpenDataWeek/RSVP.

APPALACHIAN “MEET ‘N EAT”
Tuesday, Arp 11, 12:00-1:30pm, American Indian & Indigenous Community Center
All students, faculty and staff who identify as Appalachian are welcome to join for good pizza, good friends and good conversation. The center is located on the ground floor of Squires, to the left of the information desk. Bring a story, memory or object that reminds you of home and share your experiences with other members of the community! Interested participants should fill out a brief survey at http://tinyurl.com/appmeetneat4. For more information, contact grad student Amanda Halliburton (ahallibu@vt.edu).

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 3/13/2017

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

2. FILMS ABOUT CONTEMPORARY LIFE IN SOUTH ASIA
Monday, Mar 20, 6:00pm, Newman Library Multipurpose Room, showing Taqwacore
Tuesday, Mar 21, 6:00pm, Newman Library Multipurpose Room, showing Aligarh
Join the South Asia Studies Group for two nights of films about contemporary life in South Asia and its presence around the world. Snacks will be provided so come hungry. See facebook for details at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1155131377942199/. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Anthony Szczurek, anthos9@vt.edu <mailto:anthos9@vt.edu> .

3. HANDLING ACADEMIC DISHONESTY IN THE CLASSROOM
Tuesday, March 21st, 6pm-7pm, GLC Meeting Room F
VTGrATE invites you to hang out and discuss common scenarios that might come up in the classroom regarding academic dishonesty, and explore the ways you may identify and handle academic dishonesty in the classroom. Posted on behalf of grad student Joseph Slagel, slagelj@vt.edu.

4. EXPLORE THE ART OF TEACHING: FORUM WITH ELIZABETH COLEMAN
Tuesday, Mar 21, 7:30pm, Moss Arts Center
Hosted by the Academy of Teaching Excellence, this event features Elizabeth Coleman, a visionary educator and former president of Bennington College, who will present a talk on the noble art of teaching. See details at http://liberalarts.vt.edu/college-news/elizabeth-coleman.html.

5. COMMUNITY VOICES: DEMOCRATIC DECONSOLIDATION IN TURKEY
Thursday, Mar 23, 12:00pm, GLC Room C; 7:00pm Room G
Join a roundtable luncheon with Turkish Journalist Mahir Zeynalov to discuss the role of deteriorating media freedoms in Turkey’s drift from its democratic principles, or an evening presentation and conversation at 7pm about the monumental shift of Turkey from a flawed democracy to a full-fledged autocracy in a few years.

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 23, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

7. UPLIFTING BLACK MEN CONFERENCE – register now!
Friday, Mar 24, 8:30am- 5:30pm, The Inn and Skelton Conference Center
Grad students are invited to the 2nd Annual Uplifting Black Men Conference hosted by the VT Black Male Excellence Network. This year the focus is on empowering Black men through the sharing of stories of persistence from several successful Virginia Tech alumni. All ethnic groups are welcome with the goal of providing insight into lived experience of Black males to a multitude of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Registration is free but required for attendance; see conference website: https://vtbmen.com/2017-conference/. With questions contact Carley Wilson, carlmw1@exchange.vt.edu <mailto:carlmw1@exchange.vt.edu>  or Mordecai Harvey, mordie02@vt.edu <mailto:mordie02@vt.edu> .

8. HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING DAY
Friday, Mar 24, 10:00am-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Advanced Research Computing will host the 4th annual HPC day with featured presentations, machine learning workshop, and faculty and student presentations. Full agenda at https://secure.hosting.vt.edu/www.arc.vt.edu/hpc_day_2017/.

 

9. GRAD ARTS COUNCIL PRESENTS: 2ND ANNUAL ART SHOWCASE

Friday, Mar 24, 7:00pm in Theatre 101 (200 College Ave)

This evening of live performance and diverse curated displays will feature graduate work in performance, reading and visual art from graduate students of Hollins, Radford, and Virginia Tech. This event is free and open to the public and will be followed up with a display at the GLC that will run through March 31. Posted on behalf of grad student Ana-Christina, acostaa@vt.edu.

 

10. ASIAN COOKING CLASS 2: INDIAN

Friday, Mar 24, 6:30-8:30pm, 203 Otey Street – Indian recipes

Friday, Mar 31, 6:30-8:30pm, 203 Otey Street – Korean/Laotian recipes

Three Asian cooking classes will be offered in March.  Limited to 16 participants, $5 participation fee required. Sign up at http <http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-indian> :// <http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-indian> www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-indian <http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-indian>  or at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-koreanlaotian for the session of your choice. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Soo Jeong Jo, soojeong@vt.edu.

 

11. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP SPRING RETREAT

Friday, Mar 24, 8:00pm – Sunday, Mar 26, 11:00am near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)

All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a restful weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $35 (scholarships are available). For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/spring-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com <mailto:robahowe@gmail.com> ) with any questions.

 

12. GLC LASER TAG AT PANDAPAS POND (OUTDOOR)

Saturday, Mar 25, 12:30pm-4:30pm

It is time for bonding fun, teamwork collaboration, and stress relief physical activity. Rain or shine, run around outdoors and…laser tag, ‘nuff said! Join your fellow grad students on a free trip to Pandapas Pond. This event is hosted by your GLC fellows and LCAT: Laser Tag Club at Virginia Tech. Fill out this survey to sign up: http://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_7WJs8kad2VVOe1L. Contact GLC fellow Erik Fendik at ef@vt.edu <mailto:ef@vt.edu>  if you have any questions.

 

13. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE GLC WEEKLY APRIL-1 SPECIAL EDITION – 1st posting

Get published in a peer-viewed online weekly notice: Submit your fake event description, faux call for research subjects, and other nonexistent opportunities for graduate students for the April 1 special edition of the GLC weekly listserv posting. Exercise your imagination and writing skills and earn extra points (in the form of chocolates and candy in 117 GLC) for a creative event or research idea, succinct description, and completeness of details. Submission deadline: March 31, 6:00pm. Send to gibsonm@vt.edu <mailto:gibsonm@vt.edu> , with subject line: You are a fool.

 

14. NOMINATIONS INVITED FOR INNOVATIVE ETD AWARDS – 1st posting

Virginia Tech is a member of the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD), and NDLTD is seeking nominations for student awards. Several annual awards, each $1,000 are for innovative multimedia ETDs, or ETDs demonstrating innovation in other ways.  Current students whose ETDs will be produced later may want to keep this opportunity in mind as they undertake their research. See announcement at http://www.ndltd.org. Application deadline: May 31, 2017.

 

15. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEERS INVITED TO JOIN LOCAL GROUP – 1st posting

Returned Peace Corps volunteer or staff are invited to join a growing local group of fellow volunteers and staff of over 70. Contacting peacecorps@vt.edu <mailto:peacecorps@vt.edu> . Posted on behalf of grad student Rachael Kennedy.

 

16. THINKING ABOUT RUNNING FOR OFFICE IN THE GSA? TALK TO AN OFFICER! – 1st posting

If you’re considering running for office in the GSA, current Executive Board members are happy to meet with you to answer your questions and talk to you about their experiences as officers. Schedule a meeting with any officer or Joe, the advisor, to discuss your ambitions. Officers will set appointments based on mutual availability between Mar 20-23 (cutoff for electronic nominations is noon), or may be available by phone/videoconference during that window as well. Email gsa@vt.edu <mailto:gsa@vt.edu>  with the position you’re interested in, and the appropriate officer will get in touch with you directly. Learn more about GSA elections at http://tinyurl.com/GSA-elections-2017.

 

17. ON-CAMPUS HOUSING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 1st posting

Housing & Residence Life is currently accepting students for on-campus housing for the 2017-2018 school year. The GLC at Donaldson Brown and Main Campbell Hall are open to graduate students interested in living in double or single rooms. For room rates and more information, visit: http://housing.vt.edu/contracts/apply/graduate_students.html or contact housing@vt.edu <mailto:housing@vt.edu> .

 

18. VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – 2nd posting

For graduate students interested in learning more about the administration of state government: full information at https://governor.virginia.gov/fellows/.  A minimum $2000 stipend is available through Career and Professional Development for any selected VT student.  Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu <mailto:amcphers@vt.edu>  for more information about the stipend. Application deadline: Mar 31, 2017.

 

19. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR TORGERSEN AWARD – 2nd posting

The submission are accepted for the Paul E. Torgersen Awards, aimed at highlighting the top research performed in the College of Engineering. To be eligible, you must be graduating in the calendar year of 2017. Submissions include an abstract on your research, written such that a general audience could understand it. Submissions are due to Ms. Crawford (bcrawfrd@vt.edu <mailto:bcrawfrd@vt.edu> ) by Mar 31 by 11:59pm. More information at http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.htm.  <http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.html>

 

20. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT GRANTS – 2nd reposting

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

 

21. GSA GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED – MAR 14-22 – 2nd  posting

Do you have a research idea that deserves funding? The GSA Graduate Research Development Program provides research grant funds to support graduate research. PhD students may be awarded up to $1,000 and master’s students up to $750 to support their projects. The application deadline: Mar 22, 11:59pm. The application and more information may be found at tinyurl.com/vtgrdp <http://tinyurl.com/vtgrdp> . If you have questions, contact GRDP Chair Adwoa Baah-Dwomoh at gsaGRDP@gmail.com <mailto:gsaGRDP@gmail.com> .

 

22. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – final posting

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

 

23. FULL-TIME GA POSITION IN CONTROLLER’S OFFICE FOR 2017-18 – 1st posting

The Controller’s Office is seeking a full-time (20 hrs/wk) graduate assistant to work in the areas of general accounting, payroll, and accounts payable. Position begins in Aug. Duties include working on Retirement System calculations and assisting with ensuring that the deductions are correct; assisting with the review, monitoring and follow-up of special faculty payments to ensure compliance with university policies; assisting with the documentation and implementation of the new version VT’s electronic timekeeping system; and other tasks. Additional info at https://drive.google.com/a/vt.edu/file/d/0B2lSMLVxGF10ZnR1dGU4RnN1TGM/view?usp=sharing.  Submit a cover letter, resume and three references at  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1TFlanV7PpVW12B. Contact Kim Linkous, 540-231-8560 or linkousk@vt.edu <mailto:linkousk@vt.edu>  with questions.

 

24. GA OPENING IN STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER – 1st posting

The graduate assistant (20 hours/week) reports to an Assistant Director in the SSC. The GA will be responsible for assisting with the planning and delivery of several academic support programs. Position requires a high level of initiative and strong interpersonal, organizational, leadership, and presentation skills. Weekly evening hours and occasional weekend work required. Interested applicants should submit a resume to Sachim@vt.edu <mailto:Sachim@vt.edu>   Resumes will be accepted until position is filled. For questions contact Sachiel Mondesir at Sachim@vt.edu <mailto:Sachim@vt.edu>   Full job description at  https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByOlgAsl50HXQkZCSG91YnZremc/view?ths=true.

 

25. GA OPENING IN SUSTAINABILITY OFFICE – 1st posting

The Office of Sustainability in the Facilities Department is seeking a Graduate Assistant to support efforts to educate the VT community about how to live a more sustainable and low-impact lifestyle. Applicants must have previous work experience and/or extracurricular activities experience in fields relating to sustainability. For more information, see http://facilities.vt.edu/content/dam/facilities_vt_edu/office-of-sustainability-graduate-assistant.pdf. Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6D0xQ8tqjEhJBHv&Q_JFE=0. For full consideration, apply before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Mar 31. Contact Karlee Siepierski at skarlee3@vt.edu <mailto:skarlee3@vt.edu>  with questions.

 

26. PT GRAD OPENING FOR PEACE COPRS RECRUITER POSITION – 1st posting

The VT Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is searching for a graduate student who is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) to serve as the Campus Peace Corps Recruiter part-time (20 hours/week). The recruiter will serve as the main point of contact at VT and other local universities for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps. Position begins fall 2017 and runs through spring 2018. The successful candidate will receive graduate school tuition remission and a stipend equivalent to a graduate assistantship in his/her department. Application deadline: Friday, May 12. See more at :  http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-opportunities/campus-peace-corps-recruiter-part-time/.

 

27. GRADUATE RESIDENTIAL FELLOW OPENINGS IN WEST AJ – 3rd posting

VT residential college is seeking three graduate residential fellows for 2017-18. This is not a graduate assistantship, but it provides free housing and a free on-campus meal plan, so it can be supplemental to traditional funding. Graduate fellows are expected to add to the intellectual/ academic life of the Residential College at West AJ. All disciplines are encouraged to apply. More information about the position at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OwssvFS6ezbKx6uctmnOpawxPy0U8Ov-qPXT8jC2vc8/edit?usp=sharing. Posted on behalf of faculty principal of residential college at West AJ Matthew Gabriel.

 

28. GA OPPORTUNITY IN OIRED FOR 2017-18 – 3rd posting

The Women and Gender in International Development (WGD) program at the Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) (www.oired.vt.edu/wgd <http://www.oired.vt.edu/wgd> ) is seeking a Graduate Assistant to support organizing events and other administrative aspects, literature searches, writing and editing, and managing media posts surrounding WGD activities. The WGD program ensures a gender-sensitive approach to all projects and raises awareness at VT about gender and international development issues. Academic-year funding including tuition and stipend. Must have a background in geography, sociology, agricultural economics, gender studies, or a related field; demonstrated interest in international development and gender issues; and research experience. Only the most qualified applicants will be contacted. See http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-opportunities/wgd-ga/ for details.

 

29. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF MOBILE AUGMENTED REALITY APPLICATIONS – 1st posting

The Information Technology and Security Lab is conducting research on augmented reality and its personal and professional impact on awareness of threats to cybersecurity and privacy. Volunteers 18 or older are sought, with or without technical experience who are willing to use both AR and non-AR mobile applications to perform investigative tasks and answer questions about their experiences. Tasks involve walking in and around Newman Library. The entire survey will take approximately 60 minutes. Volunteers are assured that personal information will remain confidential and will never be published in any way. If interested in participating, contact Brendan Mattina at mbrend15@vt.edu <mailto:mbrend15@vt.edu> , 603-953-7060.

 

30. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF MIDDLE EASTERN IMMIGRANT WOMEN – 1st posting

Grad student Taysir Al Janabi is seeking participants for a capstone project research study regarding the perceptions of sexual assault and rape among Middle Eastern immigrant women in the southwest area of Virginia. Middle Eastern immigrant women who identify as Muslims and are interested in participating should email Taysir80@vt.edu <mailto:Taysir80@vt.edu>  or call 540-251-1006.

 

31. STUDENTS SOUGHT TO ASSIST WITH PRE-DEPARTURE ORIENTATION PROGRAMS – 2nd posting

Grad students who has spent time in the following countries or are international students from: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, South Africa, South Korea, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Sweden or Thailand are sought by VT Global Education to assist with pre-departure orientation programs scheduled for Tuesday, Apr 18, Goodwin Hall, 8:00pm – 9:30pm for students who will be leaving soon to study abroad in Summer/Fall 2017.  A vital part of this program is hearing from students who are from or familiar with the above listed countries during break-out sessions, which are often the most helpful and enjoyable part of the event. Contact Laura Castle if you are willing to help: lecastle@vt.edu <mailto:lecastle@vt.edu> .

 

32. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – MAR 29 – 2nd posting

The GSA Research Symposium is coming up on Mar 29 with the theme of FUSION – Diversifying, connecting and amalgamating perspectives across disciplines. All volunteers will receive food and drink on the day of the event and free entry to the GSA Beer and Wine Social. Please fill out the survey at the following link by Wednesday, Mar 15: tinyurl.com/GSARSvolunteer <http://tinyurl.com/GSARSvolunteer>  to apply. Posted on behalf of Gary Nave, gknave@vt.edu.

 

33. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR 15-MIN ONLINE SURVEY – 3rd posting

Are you or have you recently been in a relationship with someone you met online? If so, VT researcher would love to hear from you. Grad student Dana Riger is conducting research on the stories people tell about meeting their partners online. Participants must be 18 or older and currently (or within the past 5 years) in a relationship with someone they met online. In the context of this study, online may include traditional dating sites, apps, and online personal ads, as well as online gaming or social media.  In exchange for your time, you may enter a drawing to win one of three $50 Amazon gift cards (with a 1 in 20 odds). If interested, take this anonymous 15-minute survey at

https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6DtIq7rBfU57asZ. Posted on behalf of Dana Riger, driger@vt.edu.

 

Upcoming events:

 

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK 2017: Mar 27-31

Attend professional development events and GSA research symposium, watch a free movie at the lyric, enjoy a free breakfast with the dean or coffee and tea from around the world, and finish the week with the big cook out on the Grad School lawn.  Some highlights:

–            Professional Women’s Panel on Monday, 3/27, sign up online

–            Removing the Mystery of the ETD Review; and Grad Night at the Lyric on Tuesday, 3/28

–            GSA Research Symposium and Expo and LinkedIn Lab on Wednesday, 3/29

–            Breakfast with the Dean (http://tinyurl.com/deanbreakfast-march2017) and GLC Café on Thursday, 3/30

–            Big Cook Out on Friday, 3/31

–            GSA spring beer & wine social 4/1 (no kidding)

See http://graduateschool.vt.edu/student-life/graduate-education-week.html for a full schedule of events and online registration.

 

OPEN EDUCATION WEEK MAR 27-31

Open Education Week sponsored by VT Libraries features events for faculty, future faculty and anyone who teaches. More information at: http://www.lib.vt.edu/oer/oe-week/2017-oeweek.html. Two events might be of particular interest to graduate students: (1) Seven Platforms You Should Know About: Share, Find, Author, or Adapt Creative Commons-Licensed Resources and (2) The Potential of Open Educational Resources: Virginia Tech Faculty & Student Panel Discussion.

 

FINISH GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK WITH GSA SPRING BEER & WINE SOCIAL

Saturday, Apr 1, 3:00pm-7:00pm, University Club

Join the GSA to celebrate the conclusion of Graduate Education Week with the annual Spring Beer & Wine Social and Tasting. Buy advance tickets online for $8 through Mar 24, or for $10 online Mar 25-31. Tickets at the door will be $12; non-drinking tickets will be $5, and there will be a $1 at-door fee for credit card transactions. Light refreshments and snacks will be free with admission. This social is for students 21 and over only. Check out the event at http://tinyurl.com/beer-wine-spring2017-fb and RSVP and share! Email Kisha (kiwi@vt.edu <mailto:kiwi@vt.edu> ) with questions.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 3/13/2017

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

2. RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTS: WHAT FUNCTIONS DO MINERALS FULFILL IN ANIMALS?
Monday, Mar 13, 5:30-6:30pm, Museum, 2062 Derring
In animals, bio-minerals make up hardened structures such as bones, teeth, shells, etc. As part of these different body parts, bio-minerals serve a wide variety of purposes that include filtering light and food, acting as compasses, and conferring material strength. This talk is about the example of bio-minerals inside the exoskeletons of crabs and lobsters and their possible function. Come for the talk and stay for free ice cream! Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers, practice communicating their research to an audience that is unfamiliar with their discipline, and simplify and clarify their presentation skills. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Lisa Whalen, lashley@vt.edu.

3. VT MASTER PLAN STUDENT FORUM
Monday, Mar 13, 7:30-9:00pm, Squires Commonwealth Ballroom
Sasaki Associates and University Planning will host this student forum with a special breakout session for graduate students. A Town Hall forum will be held on Mar 14. More details for that event will be released via VTNews. Find more details about the student forum here: http://tinyurl.com/vtmasterplan2. Posted on behalf of BOV Grad Rep Tara Reel, tdreel@vt.edu.

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

3.14 PIE DAY CAFÉ SPECIAL EDITION
Tuesday, Mar 14, 3:00-4:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee and tea and some pie in honor of 3/14.

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

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

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 16, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

8. MARCH MADNESS BRACKET CHALLENGE: VT GAME 1
Thursday, Mar 16, GLC TV Lounge (across from the Auditorium)
Join the GLC Fellows in the March Madness Bracket Challenge! A prize will be awarded to the top bracket at the end of the tournament. The GLC Fellows will be screening Virginia Tech vs. Wisconsin game, as well as the tournament final! (Times/Dates TBD). Brackets must be filled out by tip-off of the first game on Mar 16. Contact Julia Vasquez at juliav@vt.edu  with any questions. To join the ESPN bracket group, go to: https://tinyurl.com/h793q3m.

9. OVER-30 GRADS INTEREST MEETING
Friday, Mar 17, 6:00pm, GLC Room D
Join other over-30 grads for some light refreshments and conversation and build your network of potentially like-minded students and colleagues. Fill out the survey to indicate your interest in attending this event and about your future availability for regularly scheduled events: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5bfugffqiMt6Ebr.  Join a google group to stay in touch: https://groups.google.com/a/vt.edu/d/forum/vt-grads-over-30-g. Posted on behalf of grad student Mahi Abdelbar, mohelmi@vt.edu <mailto:mohelmi@vt.edu> .

10. SPRING BADMINTON TOURNAMENT
Friday-Saturday, Mar 17-18 and 24-25, War Memorial Gym 125
Grad student Meghna Verma invites you to this badminton tournament. Keep a healthy balance between studies, work and physical activities and have some fun! Register at http://bit.ly/2mHvIFN (last day to register Mar 17, 6:00pm). Contact: bmt.club.vt@gmail.com <mailto:bmt.club.vt@gmail.com>  for more info. Posted on behalf of Meghna Verma, meghna89@vt.edu.

11. ASIAN COOKING CLASS 1: CHINESE
Friday, Mar 17, 6:30-8:30pm, 203 Otey Street
Friday, Mar 24, 6:30-8:30pm, 203 Otey Street – Indian recipes
Three Asian cooking classes will be offered in March. The first session is Chinese cooking.  Limited to 16 participants, $5 participation fee required. Please sign up here: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-chinese/ or at http http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f044badac2da5fd0-indian for Indian. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Soo Jeong Jo, soojeong@vt.edu.

12. DISSERTATION BOOT CAMP
Sunday, Mar 19, 2:00-6:00pm, Writing Center
This workshop series provides three separate 4-hour sessions in the Writing Center for PhD students working on their dissertations. Attend the last of these sessions and give your dissertation-writing some focused time! During these meetings, students will have their own quiet space to work, and grad-level Writing Center coaches will be present to provide assistance. Light refreshments provided (think caffeine and carbs) Brought to you by the Writing Center and the Graduate School.

13. VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – 1st posting
For graduate students interested in learning more about the administration of state government: full information at https://governor.virginia.gov/fellows/.  A minimum $2000 stipend is available through Career and Professional Development for any selected VT student.  Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu <mailto:amcphers@vt.edu>  for more information about the stipend. Application deadline: Mar 31, 2017.

14. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR TORGERSEN AWARD – 1st posting
The submission are accepted for the Paul E. Torgersen Awards, aimed at highlighting the top research performed in the College of Engineering. To be eligible, you must be graduating in the calendar year of 2017. Submissions include an abstract on your research, written such that a general audience could understand it. Submissions are due to Ms. Crawford (bcrawfrd@vt.edu <mailto:bcrawfrd@vt.edu> ) by Mar 31 by 11:59pm. More information at http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.htm.  <http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.html>

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

16. VT ENGAGE POSTER SHOWCASE – 1st reposting
Individuals or teams of students are encouraged to submit a poster proposal (see https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bmvLBnC8U8JELd3)  that showcases their work in the areas of service learning, community-engaged learning, community outreach, and group service projects. Submission deadline: Friday, Mar 17. You will be notified by Tuesday, Mar 21 whether your proposal was accepted. Contact VT Engage with questions at engage@vt.edu <mailto:engage@vt.edu>  or 540-231-9798.

17. MARCH MADNESS BRACKET CHALLENGE – 2nd posting
Join the GLC Fellows in the March Madness Bracket Challenge! A prize will be awarded to the top bracket at the end of the tournament. The GLC Fellows will be screening Virginia Tech vs. Wisconsin game this Thursday, Mar 16 in the GLC TV Lounge, as well as the tournament final! (Times/Dates TBD). Brackets must be filled out by tip-off of the first game on Mar 16. Contact Julia Vasquez at juliav@vt.edu <mailto:juliav@vt.edu>  with any questions. To join the ESPN bracket group, go to: https://tinyurl.com/h793q3m.

18. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW – 2nd re-posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar Award. If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar Project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website:  http://graduateschool.vt.edu/transformative-graduate-education-experience/citizen-scholar-engagement/program-requirements.html. Applications are due 5 p.m. on Monday, March 13, 2017. For more information, email Helen Kamandhari at helen74@vt.edu.

19. FAIR USE WEEK CONTEST SUBMISSIONS INVITED – 2nd posting
VT Libraries invites grad students for this contest. See guidelines & entry form at http://guides.lib.vt.edu/fairuseweek/contest. VT students, staff, & faculty are eligible to submit entries. Prizes are Amazon Gift Cards: 1st – $100; 2nd – $75; 3rd – $50. Submit your entry by Mar 13, 2017 in any format (from an art piece or blog post draft to an audio work, essay, or educational material: (1) create something to inform or engage others in thinking about Fair Use, or (2) share an example of how you’ve benefited from Fair Use along with a Fair Use Analysis. Get support to develop your submission: fairuseweek-g@vt.edu or sign up to attend a Submission Development Workshop: https://goo.gl/forms/5sx7QizMkRk8mFUv1. Posted on behalf of Ginny Pannabecker, vpannabe@vt.edu.

20. GSA GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED – MAR 14-22 – 2nd  posting
Do you have a research idea that deserves funding? The GSA Graduate Research Development Program provides research grant funds to support graduate research. PhD students may be awarded up to $1,000 and master’s students up to $750 to support their projects. The application is now open and will close on March 22 at 11:59pm. The application and more information may be found at tinyurl.com/vtgrdp <http://tinyurl.com/vtgrdp> . If you have questions, contact GRDP Chair Adwoa Baah-Dwomoh at gsaGRDP@gmail.com .

21. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – 3rd posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 27-31) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. This year’s theme: Live. Learn. Explore. Globally. Learn more at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate-life-center/glc-art-and-photo-contest.html  Submission deadline: Thursday, Mar 22, 2017.

22. CALL FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY MEMBERS – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (Iota Delta Rho – IDR) invites applications for full or associate membership. IDR creates a thriving community of scholars across VT who work to integrate different disciplines, theories, methods, etc. Show how you integrate interdisciplinary research! Both graduate and undergraduate students who are heading their own projects are accepted.​ Apply by Apr 2, 2017. Learn more about IDR at: http://www.idrsociety.org/category/news/ The application can be found at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8qwNOiSqY8KJffL. Contact Melissa Kenny (mck66@vt.edu) with questions.​​

23. UNION INNOVATION CHALLENGE 2017 – 3rd posting
Students are invited to submit proposals for the challenge to be help on Apr 6, 2017. Build an epic team, put your enterprising minds together and come up with an innovation tht could net you $7,500 to fund your project in an area such as equipment, fan engagement, stadium experience, security/safety, services, training, food & nutrition, wearables, and wellness applications. This year’s theme:  Sports and Fitness. Learn more and submit at:  http://www.apexcie.vt.edu/unionchallenge/.

24. NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED FOR GSA ELECTIONS 2017-18 – 3rd posting
Nominations for executive position in the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) are due by 12pm on Mar 23, 2017. Candidates must self-nominate by emailing GSA Parliamentarian Steve Haring at sharing@vt.edu <mailto:sharing@vt.edu>  and are encouraged to attend the Mar 23 General Assembly meeting. Nominations received by the deadline will appear on the official ballot during the elections at the Apr 20 meeting, and candidates will have their written statements distributed to delegates in advance of elections. Nominations received after the deadline require majority approval of the assembly, and must be written in during the election. All current graduate students are eligible to run for office. Involvement with GSA leadership is a great way to build service credit for your CV, get involved with a cross-disciplinary community of graduate students, and meet students from across the university. Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/GSA-elections-2017. Email questions to sharing@vt.edu. Posted on behalf of the GSA Judicial and Electoral Affairs Committee.

25. BOV GRAD REP HOSTS PRESIDENT’S LUNCHEON: APPLY NOW! – 3rd posting
The graduate student representative to the Board of Visitors will be hosting a luncheon with President Sands, Provost Rikakis, and Dean DePauw on Mar 16 at noon at The Inn in Preston’s. If you are interested in participating, please fill out a brief survey at http://tinyurl.com/bovpreslunch. An email confirmation will be sent to you if selected to attend. Posted on behalf of current BOV grad rep Tara Reel, tdreel@vt.edu.

26. INTEREST POLL FOR SCIENTISTS’ MARCH ON WASHINGTON – 3rd posting
Are you interested in attending the Scientist’s March on Washington, Apr 22, 2017? Students are attempting to arrange a bus from VT campus to Washington DC, leaving campus at 5 am on the morning of April 22. If you are interested in riding the bus and attending the event, fill out the doodle poll at http://doodle.com/poll/kcp2nagd6wv5hpha so that organizers can gauge interest. Posted on behalf of grad student Allison Pekkanen, apekk@vt.edu.

27. GRADUATE RESIDENTIAL FELLOW OPENINGS IN WEST AJ – 2nd posting
VT residential college is seeking three graduate residential fellows for 2017-18. This is not a graduate assistantship, but it provides free housing and a free on-campus meal plan, so it can be supplemental to traditional funding. Graduate fellows are expected to add to the intellectual/ academic life of the Residential College at West AJ. All disciplines are encouraged to apply. More information about the position at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OwssvFS6ezbKx6uctmnOpawxPy0U8Ov-qPXT8jC2vc8/edit?usp=sharing. Posted on behalf of faculty principal of residential college at West AJ Matthew Gabriel.

28. GA OPPORTUNITY IN OIRED FOR 2017-18 – 2nd posting
The Women and Gender in International Development (WGD) program at the Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) (www.oired.vt.edu/wgd <http://www.oired.vt.edu/wgd> ) is seeking a Graduate Assistant to support organizing events and other administrative aspects, literature searches, writing and editing, and managing media posts surrounding WGD activities. The WGD program ensures a gender-sensitive approach to all projects and raises awareness at VT about gender and international development issues. Academic-year funding including tuition and stipend. Must have a background in geography, sociology, agricultural economics, gender studies, or a related field; demonstrated interest in international development and gender issues; and research experience. Only the most qualified applicants will be contacted. See http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-opportunities/wgd-ga/ for details.

29. GRAD STUDENT WAGE OPENING IN OIRED – 3rd posting
The Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is looking for a graduate student (wage) to work up to 20 hours per week on projects and other initiatives, including providing support to project development and efforts to identify and respond to project funding opportunities. The graduate student will contribute to proposal preparation and help with the due diligence and preparation (research) that goes into responses to funding opportunities. S/he will support on-going project work as appropriate. Preference is for a student with experience and/or demonstrated interest in working internationally. If interested, submit resume and cover letter to Patricia S. Hughes at Tish50@vt.edu before Mar 22, 2017.

30. 2017-2018 GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENING – 3rd posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking a motivated graduate student who is committed to building graduate community for a GLC Fellow position for the 2017-18 academic year. An ideal candidate would have previous residence life and/or event planning experience, though it is not a requirement. Applicants must submit a formal cover letter and resume, and fully complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_08rf9GDR6uKdG0B. Information about cover letter requirements is detailed in the survey and the full job description is at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate-life-center.html. Apply by midnight on Monday, Mar 13, 2017. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu <mailto:lkeister@vt.edu>  or Sam Harbison at samlh@vt.edu <mailto:samlh@vt.edu>   if you have questions.

31. STUDENTS SOUGHT TO ASSIST WITH PRE-DEPARTURE ORIENTATION PROGRAMS – 1st posting
Grad students who has spent time in the following countries or are international students from: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, South Africa, South Korea, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Sweden or Thailand are sought by VT Global Education to assist with pre-departure orientation programs scheduled for Tuesday, Apr 18, Goodwin Hall, 8:00pm – 9:30pm for students who will be leaving soon to study abroad in Summer/Fall 2017.  A vital part of this program is hearing from students who are from or familiar with the above listed countries during break-out sessions, which are often the most helpful and enjoyable part of the event. Contact Laura Castle if you are willing to help: lecastle@vt.edu.

32. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – MAR 29 – 1st posting
The GSA Research Symposium is coming up on Mar 29 with the theme of FUSION – Diversifying, connecting and amalgamating perspectives across disciplines. All volunteers will receive food and drink on the day of the event and free entry to the GSA Beer and Wine Social. Please fill out the survey at the following link by Wednesday, Mar 15: tinyurl.com/GSARSvolunteer <http://tinyurl.com/GSARSvolunteer>  to apply. Posted on behalf of Gary Nave, gknave@vt.edu.

33. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR 15-MIN ONLINE SURVEY – 2nd posting
Are you or have you recently been in a relationship with someone you met online? If so, VT researcher would love to hear from you. Grad student Dana Riger is conducting research on the stories people tell about meeting their partners online. Participants must be 18 or older and currently (or within the past 5 years) in a relationship with someone they met online. In the context of this study, online may include traditional dating sites, apps, and online personal ads, as well as online gaming or social media.  In exchange for your time, you may enter a drawing to win one of three $50 Amazon gift cards (with a 1 in 20 odds). If interested, take this anonymous 15-minute survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6DtIq7rBfU57asZ. Posted on behalf of Dana Riger, driger@vt.edu.

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

Upcoming events:

EXPLORE THE ART OF TEACHING: FORUM WITH ELIZABETH COLEMAN
Tuesday, Mar 21, 7:30pm, Moss Arts Center
Hosted by the Academy of Teaching Excellence, this event features Elizabeth Coleman, a visionary educator and former president of Bennington College, who will present a talk on the noble art of teaching. See details at http://liberalarts.vt.edu/college-news/elizabeth-coleman.html.

UPLIFTING BLACK MEN CONFERENCE – register now!
Friday, Mar 24, 8:30am- 5:30pm, The Inn and Skelton Conference Center
Grad students are invited to the 2nd Annual Uplifting Black Men Conference hosted by the VT Black Male Excellence Network. This year the focus is on empowering Black men through the sharing of stories of persistence from several successful Virginia Tech alumni. All ethnic groups are welcome with the goal of providing insight into lived experience of Black males to a multitude of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Registration is free but required for attendance; see conference website: https://vtbmen.com/2017-conference/. With questions contact Carley Wilson, carlmw1@exchange.vt.edu or Mordecai Harvey, mordie02@vt.edu.

INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP SPRING RETREAT
Friday, Mar 24, 8:00pm – Sunday, Mar 26, 11:00am near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a restful weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $35 (scholarships are available). For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/spring-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) with any questions.

GLC LASER TAG AT PANDAPAS POND (OUTDOOR)
Saturday, Mar 25, 12:30pm-4:30pm
It is time for bonding fun, teamwork collaboration, and stress relief physical activity. Rain or shine, run around outdoors and…laser tag, ‘nuff said! Join your fellow grad students on a free trip to Pandapas Pond. This event is hosted by your GLC fellows and LCAT: Laser Tag Club at Virginia Tech. Fill out this survey to sign up: http://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_7WJs8kad2VVOe1L. Contact GLC fellow Erik Fendik at ef@vt.edu if you have any questions.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK 2017: Mar 27-31
Attend professional development events and GSA research symposium, watch a free movie at the lyric, enjoy a free breakfast with the dean or coffee and tea from around the world, and finish the week with the big cook out on the Grad School lawn. See http://graduateschool.vt.edu/student-life/graduate-education-week.html for a full schedule of events. Some may require registration.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming events:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. FAIR USE WEEK EVENTS IN THE LIBRARY
Monday-Friday, Feb 20-24, various times and locations
Fair Use Week Festivities start today at VT University Libraries! Join intriguing conversations and get ready to submit your entry for the Fair Use Week Contest. NLI credit is available for several of the week’s events. Learn how to preserve and share disappearing government information; listen in on a panel discussion about fair use and copyright in academic research, publishing and teaching; watch a film screening on information guerilla warefare; and more. Details online at http://guides.lib.vt.edu/fairuseweek.

3. DINING ETIQUETTE – register by 6pm today!
Tuesday, Feb 21, 5:30-7PM, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to conduct yourself during a formal meal in a professional setting, whether the dinner is part of an interview, a conference, or other engagement. The program will include a presentation, helpful props and tips, and an informal meal during which you can network with graduate students and VT staff. Pizza or other similar food will be served; unfortunately we are unable to entertain dietary restrictions beyond meat/vegetarian. Must register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_727wBQbvoa3ranP to attend.

4. CONVERSATION WITH AND FOR WOMEN DOCTORAL STUDENTS
Wednesday, Feb 22, 8:30am, Owens Banquet Hall
The VT Women’s Alliance and the VP for Strategic Affairs/Vice Provost for Inclusion and Diversity, invite you to a conversation with and for women doctoral students. The conversation will provide an opportunity to share ideas and suggestions related to promoting and enhancing the success of women at VT. Your perspectives will inform the development of specific follow up strategies. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Gv0YeazTkuemJn if planning to attend.

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

6. APPALACHIAN STUDENT GROUP INTEREST MEETING
Wednesday, Feb 22, 11:30am-12:30pm, Multicultural Center, Squires
Are you a student from Appalachia? Are you the first person in your family to attend college or graduate school? Would you like to share your experiences, exchange ideas, and network with others in contributing to a greater appreciation of Appalachian cultures at Virginia Tech? Bring your lunch and join a “brown bag” interest meeting to establish an Appalachian student gathering. Discuss fun things you can do as a group on campus (and beyond) and tips for navigating potential problems sometimes faced by students from Appalachia. For more information, contact grad student Amanda Halliburton at ahallibu@vt.edu.

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

8. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE PRESENTS: WAYS OF PRACTICING SELF CARE
Wednesday, Feb 22, 6:15-8:00pm, GLC Room G
February is self-care month in the academy, some events are coming up that will help GTAs examine their current self-care practices and learn some new ones. Explore Massage will give a short demo on massaging techniques from 6:15-6:45 after which they will stick around to offer some free massages until 7:30! There will be a brown bag discussion on wellness from 7:00-8:00pm.

 

9. OPT WORKSHOP FOR F-1 STUDENTS

Wednesday, Feb 22, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room

Learn about the OPT application process, including eligibility requirements, timing of application and other important details. This workshop is most relevant to F-1 students who are expecting to graduate in May or this summer. Presented by IGSS immigration advisors, igss@vt.edu, 231-8486.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Feb 23, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

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

12. DISSERTATION BOOT CAMP
Sundays, Feb 26 and Mar 19, 2:00-6:00pm, Writing Center
This workshop series provides three separate 4-hour sessions in the Writing Center for PhD students working on their dissertations. During these meetings, students will have their own quiet space to work, and grad-level Writing Center coaches will be present to provide assistance. Free coffee and carbs provided! Brought to you by the Writing Center and the Graduate School.

13. NOMINATIONS FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARDS (USLA) NOW OPEN – 1st posting
The USLAs are sponsored by Student Engagement & Campus Life. These awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Virginia Tech campus and community. The USLAs celebrate accomplishments of undergraduate and graduate clubs, organizations, programs, individuals, and service projects. More information about awards, criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://campuslife.vt.edu/Student_Orgs/Awards_and_Honors/USLA.html. Submit nominations by Mar 3,  5:00pm.

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

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

16. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT GRANTS – 2nd posting
Through the generosity of many donors, the John E. Dooley Student Engagement Grant funds highly motivated students or student teams planning to implement community-based civic engagement projects. Up to $1,500 is available in this year’s cycle. Either two awards of $750 or one $1,500 award will be granted. Learn more at http://engage.vt.edu/programs/grants_awards.html and apply by Mar 24. Contact Catherine Cotrupi with questions regarding JEDSEG at cotrupi@vt.edu or 540-231-9186.

17. VT ENGAGE POSTER SHOWCASE – 2nd posting
Are you doing a project in the community that aligns with VT Engage’s core values (see http://engage.vt.edu/about/mission.html)? Individuals or teams of students are invited to submit a poster proposal at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bmvLBnC8U8JELd3 that showcases their work in the areas of service learning, community-engaged learning, community outreach, and group service projects. Proposal submission deadline: Friday, Mar 17. If you submit before the deadline, you will be notified within two weeks of submission whether or not your proposal has been accepted. If you submit on or close to the deadline, you will be notified by Tuesday, Mar 21. Contact VT Engage with questions regarding the event at engage@vt.edu or 540-231-9798.

18. SIGN UP FOR “INTERNATIONAL VOICES” – 2nd posting
The Cranwell International Center is launching International VOICES (Valuable Opportunities for Intercultural Communication, Education, and Sharing) to showcase VT’s global diversity and facilitate opportunities for international students to share their culture, global perspectives, and life experiences with the broader community. International students are matched with campus and community partners who wish to invite speakers for presentations, small group conversations, and panel discussions. The program provides international students with opportunities to: talk to interested audiences; help break down stereotypes and prejudices; improve public-speaking skills; form relationships with people on campus and in the community; contribute to open and accepting campus and community; help prepare global citizens; and add a meaningful experience to their resume. Public-speaking training and support provided as needed. Learn more and sign up at http://international.vt.edu/advocacyandsupport/international-voices-.html. Direct questions to Cranwell Intl Ctr, 540.231.6527 or international@vt.edu.

19. APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR EARLY CAREER DATA SHARE FELLOWSHIP – 2nd posting
The US region of the Research Data Alliance (RDA/US) invites applications from doctoral students and postdocs for its Early Career Data Share fellowship program. Successful Fellows will engage with RDA through carrying out self-proposed projects with RDA groups and through extensive networking and communication with the RDA community. Data Services in VT University Libraries is involved with the RDA and would welcome the opportunity to work with you in support of this fellowship. Contact dataservices@vt.edu for assistance. Application deadline: Mar 7. Details and applications:  http://us.rd-alliance.org/2017-2018-rdaus-call-fellows. Posted on behalf of Jonathan Petters, Data Services, University Libraries.

20. GA POSITION FOR 2017-18 FOR GRADUATE LIFE CENTER OPERATIONS – 2nd posting
Student Engagement and Campus Life is looking for a full-time graduate student to serve as a Graduate Assistant for GLC Operations. This nine-month position begins in August.  Primary duties include personnel management and supervision of GLC student staff, assisting with daily management of GLC building operations, event services assistance and collaboration with GLC partners. Full position description available at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/content/dam/graduateschool_vt_edu/grad_assistant_graduate_life_center.pdf. To apply, submit a resume and cover letter by Mar 3 to Steve Buchner, Operations Coordinator, satlbuch@vt.edu.

21. GA POSITION TO SUPPORT GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY FOR 2017-18 – 3rd posting
Student Engagement and Campus Life and the Graduate School are looking for a full-time graduate student to support the GSA during the 2017-18 academic year. This 12-month position begins in May. Primary duties include advising members of the GSA Executive Board and Executive Council, providing logistics support for GSA events and operation,  and assisting with small- and large-scale event planning throughout the year. Full position description available at http://gsa.vt.edu/how-to-get-involved/gsa-graduate-assistant/. Apply by Feb 21 at 5pm by sending a letter of interest and CV in PDF format to jedens@vt.edu. Email questions to kasey@vt.edu.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BIOFEEDBACK STUDY – 1st posting
VT researchers are inviting participants for a research project to gain information from biofeedback collected by galvanic skin response(GSR)* and electroencephalogram(EEG)** sensors while using an information system. Participants will have a headset that has EEG sensors and two finger bands that have GSR sensors to wear while using an information system. The experiment will be recorded by two video cameras. The recorded footage will be used for analyzing participants’ physical movements. Participants will also answer a questionnaire regarding their experience during the experiment. The total amount of time for participation is around 60 minutes. There is no direct benefit from participating in the study. The study will be published and participation is voluntary and confidential. Contact Kibong Song at gibbs@vt.edu for more information.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF AUGMENTED REALITY – 1st posting
The Information Technology and Security Lab is conducting research on augmented reality and how it can assist cybersecurity professionals and improve the cybersecurity industry. Seeking volunteers 18 or older who are willing to use mobile augmented reality applications to perform investigative tasks and answer questions about their experiences. Tasks involve moving between four buildings and moving throughout the second floor of Newman Library. The entire survey will not take longer than 30 minutes. Volunteers are assured that personal information will remain confidential and will never be published in any way.  If interested, contact Brendan Mattina at mbrend15@vt.edu, 603-953-7060. 

Upcoming events:

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. NAVIGATING YOUR PHD PROGRAM: CREATE A PERSONAL PLAN FOR WRITING
Monday, Feb 13, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
These interactive writing workshops are designed to help grad students create a personal plan for writing, with particular attention to comprehensive exams and dissertations/theses. The Feb 13 session is targeted for students in the latter stage of their doctoral studies. Brought to you by the Writing Center.

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

4. PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Feb 15, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
Join the next parent support lunch and enjoy food, meet other grad student parents, and have a good discussion about parenting. This month participants will be hearing from Candy Beers-Kim, an expert in pediatric sleep. Learn some tips on mindful parenting and relaxation that will help you and baby get more sleep! Children are welcome. Register at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-february and remember that in a room full of hungry graduate students, the food goes fast. Posted on behalf of Marin Riegger, child care coordinator, mriegger@vt.edu.

5. OVER-30 GRADS INTEREST MEETING
Wednesday, Feb 15, 3:00-4:30pm, GLC Room D
Join other over-30 grads for some light refreshments and conversation and build your network of potentially like-minded students and colleagues. Fill out the survey to indicate your interest in attending this event and about your future availability for regularly scheduled events: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5bfugffqiMt6Ebr.  Join a google group to stay in touch: https://groups.google.com/a/vt.edu/d/forum/vt-grads-over-30-g. Posted on behalf of grad student Mahi Abdelbar, mohelmi@vt.edu <mailto:mohelmi@vt.edu> .

6. GSA TOWN HALL: FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ACTIONS AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON HIGHER EDUCATION
Wednesday, Feb 15, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Guests will include Dean Karen DePauw, Kay Heidbreder of University Legal Counsel, and Diana Miller of Student Legal Services. Topics of discussion include any and all matters pertaining to graduate student realities in the current administration, including the immigration ban, impacts of EPA funding, academic freedom, public perceptions of the liberal arts and sciences, the Affordable Care Act and student health care, Planned Parenthood, Title IX and campus sexual assault, and the future of public education.

7. GLC CAFÉ: CUBICLE FARM TIRAMISU EDITION
Thursday, Feb 16, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Cubicle farm tiramisu will be back by popular demand. Stop by to experience the pinnacle of junk food you can make out of things from vending machines! Bring your own mug if you can.

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

9. DISSERTATION BOOT CAMP
Sundays, Feb 19, 26 and Mar 19, 2:00-6:00pm, Writing Center
This workshop series provides three separate 4-hour sessions in the Writing Center for PhD students working on their dissertations. During these meetings, students will have their own quiet space to work, and grad-level Writing Center coaches will be present to provide assistance. Brought to you by the Writing Center.

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

11. VT ENGAGE POSTER SHOWCASE – 1st posting
Are you doing a project in the community that aligns with VT Engage’s core values (see http://engage.vt.edu/about/mission.html)? Individuals or teams of students are invited to submit a poster proposal at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bmvLBnC8U8JELd3 that showcases their work in the areas of service learning, community-engaged learning, community outreach, and group service projects. Proposal submission deadline: Friday, Mar 17. If you submit before the deadline, you will be notified within two weeks of submission whether or not your proposal has been accepted. If you submit on or close to the deadline, you will be notified by Tuesday, Mar 21. Contact VT Engage with questions regarding the event at engage@vt.edu <mailto:engage@vt.edu>  or 540-231-9798.

12. SIGN UP FOR “INTERNATIONAL VOICES” – 1st posting
The Cranwell International Center is launching International VOICES (Valuable Opportunities for Intercultural Communication, Education, and Sharing) to showcase VT’s global diversity and facilitate opportunities for international students to share their culture, global perspectives, and life experiences with the broader community. International students are matched with campus and community partners who wish to invite speakers for presentations, small group conversations, and panel discussions. The program provides international students with opportunities to: talk to interested audiences; help break down stereotypes and prejudices; improve public-speaking skills; form relationships with people on campus and in the community; contribute to open and accepting campus and community; help prepare global citizens; and add a meaningful experience to their resume. Public-speaking training and support provided as needed. Learn more and sign up at http://international.vt.edu/advocacyandsupport/international-voices-.html. Direct questions to Cranwell Intl Ctr, 540.231.6527 or international@vt.edu <mailto:intenraitonal@vt.edu> .

13. APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR EARLY CAREER DATA SHARE FELLOWSHIP – 1st posting
The US region of the Research Data Alliance (RDA/US) invites applications from doctoral students and postdocs for its Early Career Data Share fellowship program. Successful Fellows will engage with RDA through carrying out self-proposed projects with RDA groups and through extensive networking and communication with the RDA community. Data Services in VT University Libraries is involved with the RDA and would welcome the opportunity to work with you in support of this fellowship. Contact dataservices@vt.edu <mailto:dataservices@vt.edu>  for assistance. Application deadline: Mar 7. Details and applications:  http://us.rd-alliance.org/2017-2018-rdaus-call-fellows. Posted on behalf of Jonathan Petters, Data Services, University Libraries.

14. RESEARCH A LA MODE INVITES SPEAKER APPLICATIONS – 3rd posting
Want to give a talk on your research? Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. This is an opportunity to practice communicating your research to an audience unfamiliar with your discipline, and help you cut down on reliance on jargon and simplify and clarify your points and delivery. Use RALM to become better teachers, researchers and communicators!Talks are usually around 30 minutes. Email LASHLEY@VT.EDU <mailto:LASHLEY@VT.EDU>  if interested in joining the ranks of RALM presenters.

15. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW – 3rd posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar Award. If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar Project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website:  http://graduateschool.vt.edu/transformative-graduate-education-experience/citizen-scholar-engagement/program-requirements.html. Applications are due 5 p.m. on Monday, March 13, 2017. For more information, email Helen Kamandhari at helen74@vt.edu <mailto:helen74@vt.edu> .

16. GA POSITION FOR 2017-18 FOR GRADUATE LIFE CENTER OPERATIONS – 1st posting
Student Engagement and Campus Life is looking for a full-time graduate student to serve as a Graduate Assistant for GLC Operations. This nine-month position begins in August.  Primary duties include personnel management and supervision of GLC student staff, assisting with daily management of GLC building operations, event services assistance and collaboration with GLC partners. Full position description available at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/content/dam/graduateschool_vt_edu/grad_assistant_graduate_life_center.pdf. To apply, submit a resume and cover letter by Mar 3 to Steve Buchner, Operations Coordinator, satlbuch@vt.edu <mailto:satlbuch@vt.edu> .

17. GA POSITION TO SUPPORT GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY FOR 2017-18 – 2nd posting
Student Engagement and Campus Life and the Graduate School are looking for a full-time graduate student to support the GSA during the 2017-18 academic year. This 12-month position begins in May. Primary duties include advising members of the GSA Executive Board and Executive Council, providing logistics support for GSA events and operation,  and assisting with small- and large-scale event planning throughout the year. Full position description available at http://gsa.vt.edu/how-to-get-involved/gsa-graduate-assistant/. Apply by Feb 21 at 5pm by sending a letter of interest and CV in PDF format to jedens@vt.edu <mailto:jedens@vt.edu> . Email questions to kasey@vt.edu <mailto:kasey@vt.edu> .

18. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MUSCLE METABOLISM STUDY – 3rd posting
Volunteers needed for a study examining how diet influences muscle metabolism. Must be:
Between ages 18-40; females must be on monophasic oral contraceptive and not pregnant; not currently taking any medications (other than above); non-smokers; without any major medical problems; willing to eat a high fat diet for 5 days. Participants will receive extensive health information and may receive up to $400 in compensation. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, contact the VT Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory at westerndiet@gmail.com <mailto:westerndiet@gmail.com> . website: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_eKX222gpcgRqZLv.

Upcoming events:

DINING ETIQUETTE – register now!
Tuesday, 2/21, 5:30-7PM, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to conduct yourself during a formal meal in a professional setting, whether the dinner is part of an interview, a conference, or other engagement. The program will include a presentation, helpful props and tips, and an informal meal during which you can network with graduate students and VT staff. Pizza or other similar food will be served; unfortunately we are unable to entertain dietary restrictions beyond meat/vegetarian. Must register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_727wBQbvoa3ranP to attend.

CONVERSATION WITH AND FOR WOMEN DOCTORAL STUDENTS
Wednesday, Feb 22, 8:30am, Owens Banquet Hall
The VT Women’s Alliance and the VP for Strategic Affairs/Vice Provost for Inclusion and Diversity, invite you to a conversation with and for women doctoral students. The conversation will provide an opportunity to share ideas and suggestions related to promoting and enhancing the success of women at VT. Your perspectives will inform the development of specific follow up strategies. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Gv0YeazTkuemJn if planning to attend.

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

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

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

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

2. NAVIGATING YOUR PHD PROGRAM: CREATE A PERSONAL PLAN FOR WRITING
Monday, Feb 6, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
Monday, Feb 13, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
These interactive writing workshops are designed to help grad students create a personal plan for writing, with particular attention to comprehensive exams and dissertations/theses. Session is designed for students in the early stages of their program; session 2 is targeted for students in the latter stage of their doctoral studies. Brought to you by the Writing Center.

3. CAREER FAIR PREPARATION
Tuesday, Feb 7, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room G
Learn the ins and outs of how to approach a career fair. This event will be excellent practice for those attending the Career and Professional Development Connection Job Fair the week of Feb 20 or other career fairs. Led by a Career & Professional Development Career Advisor. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6D9gmNz6m4tdFmB. This event is part of the Graduate School’s professional development series. 

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

5. INFO SESSION ON RECENT EXECUTIVE ORDER ON IMMIGRATION
Wednesday, Feb 8, 4:30-6:00pm, Haymarket Theater, Squires Student Center
The Graduate School, Division of Student Affairs and Outreach and International Affairs will hold an open information session for the larger graduate community and Virginia Tech faculty, staff and students on the recent executive order on immigration and travel. Virginia Tech experts will be on hand to provide accurate information and updates and answer questions about the executive order and its impact on university students, employees and visitors. The event will be live-streamed; watch it online at http://gs.vt.edu/live.

6. GROCERY BINGO
Wednesday, Feb 8, 5:30pm, GLC Room G
Compete against other graduate students in Bingo for a chance to win free grocery items.  Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5pr4TTnet8d23qJ. Brought to you by Graduate Student Services.

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

8. H-1B (WORK VISA) AND PERMANENT RESIDENCY WORKSHOP FOR INTL GRAD STUDENTS
Thursday, Feb 9, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn about work visa and employment-based permanent residency options at this workshop presented by immigration attorneys. This workshop is most relevant for international students in F-1 status who are planning to graduate this spring and seek OPT and/or H-1B employment after graduation.

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

10. “GLC CARES” CALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Many of our graduate students are struggling as a result of the executive order put in place last Friday. Some students are unable to travel, unable to conduct research, and are afraid to speak to officials.  Through Wednesday, Feb 8, the Graduate Life Center will display flags of the countries our international students represent and a banner to show support for our colleagues. There are sticky notes at the GLC Welcome Center you can use to leave a message attached to the banner. You may also record and affirming message with the camera set up in the lobby. Please contact Dannette Gomez Beane at gomezds@vt.edu <mailto:gomezds@vt.edu>  if you have any questions.

11. RESEARCH A LA MODE INVITES SPEAKER APPLICATIONS – 2nd posting
Want to give a talk on your research? Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. This is an opportunity to practice communicating your research to an audience unfamiliar with your discipline, and help you cut down on reliance on jargon and simplify and clarify your points and delivery. Use RALM to become better teachers, researchers and communicators!Talks are usually around 30 minutes. Email LASHLEY@VT.EDU <mailto:LASHLEY@VT.EDU>  if interested in joining the ranks of RALM presenters.

12. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS OPEN NOW – 2nd posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar Award. If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar Project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website:  http://graduateschool.vt.edu/transformative-graduate-education-experience/citizen-scholar-engagement/program-requirements.html. Applications are due 5 p.m. on Monday, March 13, 2017. For more information, email Helen Kamandhari at helen74@vt.edu <mailto:helen74@vt.edu> .

13. GA POSITION TO SUPPORT GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY FOR 2017-18 – 1st posting
Student Engagement and Campus Life and the Graduate School are looking for a full-time graduate student to support the GSA during the 2017-18 academic year. This 12-month position begins in May. Primary duties include advising members of the GSA Executive Board and Executive Council, providing logistics support for GSA events and operation,  and assisting with small- and large-scale event planning throughout the year. Full position description available at http://gsa.vt.edu/how-to-get-involved/gsa-graduate-assistant/. Apply by Feb 21 at 5pm by sending a letter of interest and CV in PDF format to jedens@vt.edu <mailto:jedens@vt.edu> . Email questions to kasey@vt.edu <mailto:kasey@vt.edu> .

14. GA POSITION FOR SPRING 2017 IN LEARNING EXPERIENCE DESIGN – 3rd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED) in TLOS is seeking a graduate assistant for Spring 2017 to provide assistance with programming and data management associated with the development of digital and web-based learning objects, assessment matrices, and machine-directed learning.  Programing and data management include knowledge of Python and Java, Google analytics, programming for ‘hot spots’ linking to information and resources, and programming for user interfaces and interactivity.  Personalized, machine-directed learning include data point identification, algorithm development and application, data mining and analysis, data visualization, and system interoperability. To apply, submit a resume and cover letter to Dr. Lujean Baab, Senior Director, lbaab@vt.edu <mailto:lbaab@vt.edu> . Review of applications will begin immediately.  Position to be filled as soon as possible.

15. GA OPENING IN INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH FOR SPRING 2017 – 3rd posting
The Institutional Research & Effectiveness office is seeking a GA to carry out data analysis and web applications/visualizations development. Applicants must have strong and verifiable programming skills; knowledge of scripting languages: Javascript, jQuery, Python, SQL, HTML, and CSS with ability to translate mockups to working code; knowledge of open source visualization tools like D3, Charts.js etc; demonstrated evidence in web application programming;  experience in collaborative work environments; creativity and innovation; good communication skills. Preferred: experience in Javascript, JQuery, D3, Python, SQL, open source visualization libraries; knowledge of SAS statistical software; software application development experience. To apply, email CV with links to supplementary materials such as sample websites/applications, software projects in code repositories to: Daniel Hung @ chung@vt.edu <mailto:chung@vt.edu> . Position open until filled.

16. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MUSCLE METABOLISM STUDY – 2nd posting
Volunteers needed for a study examining how diet influences muscle metabolism. Must be:
Between ages 18-40; females must be on monophasic oral contraceptive and not pregnant; not currently taking any medications (other than above); non-smokers; without any major medical problems; willing to eat a high fat diet for 5 days. Participants will receive extensive health information and may receive up to $400 in compensation. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, contact the VT Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory at westerndiet@gmail.com <mailto:westerndiet@gmail.com> . website: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_eKX222gpcgRqZLv.

Upcoming events:

BICYCLE DOCUDRAMA: "THE RIGHT OF WAY"
Saturday, Feb 11, 2:00pm, Theatre 101 (200 College Ave.)
Written and directed by MFA candidate Thomas Murray. In 2013, 28 year-old Hector Avalos was riding his bicycle home from work when he was struck and killed by a drunk driver on Chicago’s West Side. Composed from interviews with Avalos’s family, transportation experts, urban planners, lawyers, automobile historians, and bicycling activists, this documentary play asks who really has the right of way on city streets – and how those ideas may be changing. Event is FREE.

OVER-30 GRADS INTEREST MEETING
Wednesday, Feb 15, 3:00-4:30pm, GLC Room D
Join other over-30 grads for some light refreshments and conversation and build your network of potentially like-minded students and colleagues. Fill out the survey to indicate your interest in attending this event and about your future availability for regularly scheduled events: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5bfugffqiMt6Ebr.  Join a google group to stay in touch: https://groups.google.com/a/vt.edu/d/forum/vt-grads-over-30-g. Posted on behalf of grad student Mahi Abdelbar, mohelmi@vt.edu

SPEED INTERVIEWING – register now!
Wednesday, Feb 15, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Looking to practice your interviewing skills? Take advantage of the opportunity to practice interviewing in a low-key environment and receive immediate feedback from career advisors and VT staff. Every 6 minutes you rotate from one interviewer to the next, answering a different question each time. Register for a one-hour time slot: 5:30–6:30pm or 6:30–7:30pm online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6yxL3D3NRXSjAQR. Space is very limited; only register if you are committed to come! Accepted registrations and time slots will be confirmed by email. If you cannot attend after registering, please email to marge12@vt.edu <mailto:marge12@vt.edu>  so that your spot can be reassigned to a fellow grad on wait list.

DISSERTATION BOOT CAMP
Sundays, Feb 19, 26 and Mar 19, 2:00-6:00pm, Writing Center
This workshop series provides three separate 4-hour sessions in the Writing Center for PhD students working on their dissertations. During these meetings, students will have their own quiet space to work, and grad-level Writing Center coaches will be present to provide assistance. Brought to you by the Writing Center.

DINING ETIQUETTE
Tuesday, 2/21, 5:30-7PM, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to conduct yourself during a formal meal in a professional setting, whether the dinner is part of an interview, a conference, or other engagement. The program will include a presentation, helpful props and tips, and an informal meal during which you can network with graduate students and VT staff. Pizza or other similar food will be served; unfortunately we are unable to entertain dietary restrictions beyond meat/vegetarian. Must register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_727wBQbvoa3ranP to attend.

CONVERSATION WITH AND FOR WOMEN DOCTORAL STUDENTS
Wednesday, Feb 22, 8:30am, Owens Banquet Hall
The VT Women’s Alliance and the VP for Strategic Affairs/Vice Provost for Inclusion and Diversity, invite you to a conversation with and for women doctoral students. The conversation will provide an opportunity to share ideas and suggestions related to promoting and enhancing the success of women at VT. Your perspectives will inform the development of specific follow up strategies. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Gv0YeazTkuemJn if planning to attend.

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

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 1/17/2017

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

2. PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Jan 18, 12:00-1:30, GLC Room F
Join the next Parent Support Luncheon meeting for a free lunch and an opportunity to discuss things like sleep habits, food preferences, pre-natal and post-partum care, and other topics with an expert, as well as with fellow graduate students! RSVP at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-january1. Partners/spouses and children are always welcome!

3. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Jan 19, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow graduate students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax!

4. INAUGURATE RESISTANCE
Friday, Jan 20, 10:00am-4:00pm, The Lyric Theater
Join fellow students, faculty, local activists and performers for a day of teaching, learning, organizing, and preparing in the face of dangers to communities and planet posed by the new administration. Panels will cover: climate/environment/energy, communities under threat, foreign policy/trade/globalization, economic inequality/labor/jobs, sexuality/reproductive rights/violence against women, and building a movement. Find more at Facebook @ Inaugurate Resistance. Posted on behalf of grad student Anthony Szczurek, anthos9@vt.edu.

5. WELLFEST 2017
Friday, Jan 20, 1:30-5:00pm, McComas Hall
WellFest, the 2017 Student Health and Wellness Fair offered by RecSports, gives you the opportunity to explore your overall wellbeing. Exhibitors from on and off campus will be available to help you learn ways to thrive. Free massages, giveaways and a chance to win prizes such as an apple watch, amazon echo, chacos, eno hammock, beats headphones, and more! Learn more at http://www.recsports.vt.edu/announcements/wellfest17.html .

6. INAUGURATE RESISTANCE VIGIL
Friday, Jan 20, 5:00pm
Following the program at The Lyric, gather at the corner of N. Main and College St. at 4:30 for a vigil, to be followed at 5:00 PM with a march through downtown Blacksburg and campus. Bring your signs, your voices, and dress warm! Let’s build a community! Posted on behalf of grad student Anthony Szczurek, anthos9@vt.edu.

7. QGPA WELCOME BACK GAME NIGHT
Friday, Jan 20, 5:30-7:300pm, GLC Room B
Join Queer Grads, Professionals and Allies (QGPA) for their first game night of the semester. Feel free to bring your favorite game. Snacks will be provided. Questions? Email qgpaVT@gmail.com.

8. WELLNESS COOKING CLASSES – REGISTER NOW!
Enjoy the hands-on experience of preparing easy, nutritious meals for yourself, improve your cooking skills, learn new techniques, and develop healthy cooking and eating strategies – all in a fun, social environment. All classes are 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm and only $5- this includes a meal and recipe booklet- in Wallace 405. Sign up at https://connect.recsports.vt.edu/  is required and spaces are limited. Cooking themes and dates for Spring 2017 are (1) Date Night Dinners: Feb 1 or 2; (2) Healthier Comfort Foods: Mar 15 or 16; (3) Multicultural Night: Apr 19 or 20. Posted on behalf of RecSports.

9. HAPPINESS GROUPS – 1st posting
Happiness Groups are practical and empowering programs based on the book “The How of Happiness: A New Approach to Getting the Life You Want” by Sonja Lyubomirsky. The concepts in this book are based on years of groundbreaking scientific research about what does and does not make people truly (and sustainably) happy. If you are interested in joining, register at:  https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd93gZ8KfDYJ8Q7B7O40c7VBGvegQAJACxaMSwIgvcW0JQnVw/viewform . Posted on behalf of RecSports.

10. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR SOCIOLOGY UGRAD/GRAD RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – 1st posting
Paper and poster submissions are invited that address issues in sociology and related fields. Direct inquiries to Megan Nanney (mnanney@vt.edu) and Talitha Rose (tkrose@vt.edu). Abstracts are due Friday, Feb 24, 5pm and may be submitted at https://goo.gl/forms/O2BQZMbC16Q9cCRf2 . The symposium will be held on Friday, Mar 17, in McBryde 655 with the theme “Interrogating Inequalities, Transgressing Boundaries” to highlight undergraduate and graduate student research and provide a venue for students to practice their presentation skills.

11. ABSTRACT SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium and Expo on Mar 29 is a unique opportunity for graduate students and advanced undergraduate students to bring together ideas and research findings from different disciplines and showcase their scholarly pursuits and achievements. This year’s theme: Fusion — Diversifying, Connecting and Amalgamating Perspectives Across Disciplines. Submit abstracts and proposals for poster presentations, talk presentations and creative installations (e.g., performances or showcases) at http://tinyurl.com/jfa9xsm from Jan 17 through  Feb 1, 11:59 pm EST. Submissions from graduate and advanced undergraduate students (final year of undergraduate study) are welcome. Questions? Email: gsasymp@gmail.com <mailto:gsasymp@gmail.com>  .

12. CONTRIBUTIONS SOUGHT FOR INTERLOPER MAGAZINE  – 1st posting
The Interloper, VT’s LGBTQ magazine, is looking for enthusiastic, hard-working contributors for its 6th issue. Need editors, writers, artists, photographers, and designers. If interested in getting involved, email Megan Nanney at theinterlopervt@gmail.com <mailto:theinterlopervt@gmail.com>  . Also check out information regarding open positions for the magazine on Facebook. There will be a general interest meeting on Sunday, Jan 29 at 4:00pm in the Intercultural Engagement Center in Squires. Bring your friends and learn how you can get involved in the magazine!

13. APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FOR BOV GRAD REP POSITION – 1st posting
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 10, 2017. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply <http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply>  .

14. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – 1st posting
A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination with your advisor/department for any of the following awards:

• Outstanding Dissertation in (1) STEM fields (1) social sciences/business/humanities
• Preston Society Master’s Thesis Awards (3)
• GTA Excellence (1) instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
• Graduate Student Service Excellence
• Graduate Student of the Year (up to three)
• Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs.

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/about/awards/student.html .

15. NOMINATE OUTSTANDING FACULTY MENTOR(S) FOR MENTOR AWARD – 1st posting
The Graduate School is introducing this new award to recognize one faculty member from each college for their role in supporting, encouraging, and promoting a positive and inclusive scholarly and teaching environment, and for contributing to professional and personal development of graduate students within or outside their research or degree programs. Learn more about the award and nomination process at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/about/awards/outstanding-mentor-award.html

16. CALL FOR THINK-TANK PARTICIPANTS: POLITICS + DESIGNED PRODUCTS – 1st posting
Ever used a product or piece of technology that felt like it wasn’t designed with you in mind? Have ideas for educational resources or strategies to help science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) students learn that their work has social and political impact? If you are interested in discussing these ideas with others over the course of 2-3 meetings this semester, email grad student Darren (dmaczka@vt.edu <mailto:dmaczka@vt.edu> ). Exact dates to be decided, but expect lunch to be provided.

17. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR STUDENT BLOG REFLECTIONS AND EXPLORATIONS – 1st posting
Graduate students are invited to submit writing to the student blog RE: Reflections and Explorations. Past articles have focused on issues linked to democratic policy, society, and governance (see https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/reflectionsandexplorations/). Submissions encouraged from all disciplines with critical reflections and explorations of current events, ideologies, acts of resistance and oppression, and beyond. The RE column appears weekly and everyone who signs up is responsible for writing one article during the spring semester. Your entry will be a topic of your choosing and total approximately 1,000 words. The first article will appear on Jan 26.Complete doodle poll at http://doodle.com/poll/ecf3reyx9ksu82ig to sign up for a week. Slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Posted on behalf of grad student Mary Ryan, maryryan@vt.edu <mailto:maryryan@vt.edu>  .

18. GERMAN SCHOLARSHIPS & RESEARCH INTERNSHIPS IN SCI & ENGR – 1st posting
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers scholarships for research internships in science and engineering. More information and application details can be found here: https://www.daad.de/rise/en/rise-professional/. Deadline to apply is Jan 31.

19. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR ACADEMY FOR GRAD TEACHING EXCELLENCE – 2nd posting
VTGrATE (Academy for Graduate Teaching Assistant Excellence) welcomes applications for Member, Associate, and Fellow in its learning community. VTGrATE provides advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies and provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to all graduate and professional students. Apply at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cJfV4Y4ZXU6cK6p ; faculty nomination/recommendation form is at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_7VBTYNmHD7YRSWF.  Everything is due by 11:59pm on Saturday, Jan 28. Contact Nicole J. Johnson at nicj712@vt.edu <mailto:nicj712@vt.edu>  with questions.

20. AETNA STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE OPEN ENROLLMENT – 2nd posting
Spring enrollment is open for new students starting in Spring 2017 and students who didn’t enroll in the fall. Deadline: Jan 31, 2017. Contact the Student Medical Insurance office with questions at smi@vt.edu, 231-6226. Visit their website at http://risk.controller.vt.edu/studentmedicalinsurance.html for more info.

21. SPRING COURSE OPEN: GRAD 5304 – PREPARING CAREER PROFESSIONALS – 2nd posting
Learn about leadership, communication, team building and collaboration, ethics and professional standards, management strategies, and more in industrial settings in this interdisciplinary course offered by the Graduate School every spring. Speakers from different fields, including company CEOs and vice presidents, faculty members and alumni who started successful businesses, and others who have had different experiences, will share their insights and tips with graduate students. Sign up now!

22. SPRING COURSE OPEN 2: GRAD 5404 RESEARCH IN INTERNATIONAL CONTEXTS – 2nd posting
Offered by the Graduate School, this course gives students different perspectives through discussions of opportunities, challenges and contexts for participation in international research. Topics include international aspects of intellectual property and copyright law, trade law, export control, research ethics, research funding, protection of human and animal subjects. Through discussions and presentations by faculty members from disciplines and who have worked on international initiatives in many different countries, students learn of cultural dimensions of collaboration including work requirements, varying systems of higher education and research, and work-life expectations and logistics for research abroad. Sign up now!

23. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR EXHIBITION OF CULTURES – 2nd posting
Virginia Tech is proud of the rich variety of multi-cultural and international experiences and perspectives students bring and share. To celebrate our multi-cultural environment and learn more about one another, the College of Architecture and Urban Studies is hosting an exhibit of traditional clothing and accessories associated with New Year celebrations around the world. Items will be showcased in a week-long exhibition accentuated by a fashion show held during the opening reception. Register by Jan 30. Exhibition will be held in the Art + Architecture Library Feb 13-17. To share  clothing, artifacts, accessories, etc associated with New Year from your culture, or for more information, visit: https://goo.gl/ij2yVE . Submissions will be reviewed and examples will be selected for the exhibit. If your submission is selected, you will receive additional info. Contact Shabnam Kavousi at Shabnamk@vt.edu with questions.

24. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR COMMUNITY CHANGE ONLINE JOURNAL – 3rd posting
Community Change, an online, peer-reviewed, graduate student journal that seeks to explore multiple approaches to democratic community development and change is accepting applications for its inaugural issue. Issues will feature scholarly refereed articles, book reviews, essays, interviews and other work, including multimedia and artwork. Interdisciplinary work is strongly encouraged. In addition to manuscripts relating to new developments, submissions that re-examine or challenge the questions and assumptions underpinning current theoretical and practical approaches to community development and change are also welcome. Submission deadline: Feb 6, 2017. For more information, visit www.communitychange.ipg.vt.edu <http://www.communitychange.ipg.vt.edu>  . Posted on behalf of D’Elia Chandler, delia3@exchange.vt.edu <mailto:delia3@exchange.vt.edu> .

25. STUDENT INSTRUCTORS SOUGHT FOR CULINARY CLASSES – 1st posting
Do you want to teach how to cook food from your country? Student instructors are sought for culinary classes offered through a Diversity Scholars project. The class duration will be about two hours, and supplies and help will be offered. If interested, please contact Soo at soojeong@vt.edu <mailto:soojeong@vt.edu>  by Jan 31.

26. VT HELPING PAWS IS RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS – 1st posting
VT Helping PAWS (Pet Assisted Wellness Service) is a therapy-animal program that provides an opportunity for students/faculty/staff and their pets to bring companionship and animal-assisted therapy to the VT and greater community. The group visits Squires Student Center, GLC, local nursing homes, libraries, and other places on a regular basis. Join the organization and become a therapy team through Pet Partners, a national pet therapy organization.  Teams with a variety of pets including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, mini horses, and more are welcome to join through Pet Partners.  Volunteers who do not have their own pet are still welcome to help with training classes and at events!  There will be an interest meeting at the Blacksburg Library on Monday, Jan 23 at 6 PM. Please RSVP at www.tinyurl.com/vthpaws <http://www.tinyurl.com/vthpaws> .  Contact vthelpingpaws@vt.edu with questions. Posted on behalf of Sara Boyle, petluv15@vt.edu.

27. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DIETARY STUDY IN HNFE – 1st posting
VT researchers are conducting a study to determine the validity of an updated dietary intake assessment method (questionnaire). You may be eligible to participate if you are 18 or older. The study involves 3 visits (over a one month period) to the VT Campus. Each visit is less than 30 minutes and will include 3 urine samples to measure hydration status and a short demographics survey. Participants will complete several questionnaires on beverage intake frequency, leisure-time physical activity, and health literacy level. The study will also include 2 dietary recalls by phone, each lasting 10-15 min. Compensation: $15 upon successful completion of all visits. Contact Anna in the Dietary Assessment Laboratory at 540-231-4386 or annalg16@vt.edu <mailto:annalg16@vt.edu>   for more info. 

28. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON TRACKING MOTIONS OF HUMAN HAND – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for a study on tracking a set of human hand motions. Participants will perform a set of tasks involving basic hand motions and surgical motions including motions with a scalpel handle (without blade) and wearing a non-latex medical glove. Must be 18-35 years old, right-handed, no current or recent history (within 3 months) of musculoskeletal problems, not allergic to double sided tape. Experiments will take about 3 hours (2 sessions with ~1.5h for each) and will be conducted in the Occupational Ergonomics and Biomechanics Lab in the ISE department. Participation is voluntary and confidential. Compensation: $10/hr plus an additional $20 for completing the study. If interested, contact Anqi Wang at anqiw93@vt.edu <mailto:anqiw93@vt.edu>  or phone at (540) 998-8965.

Upcoming events:

OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO CLUB AT VT OPEN WORKOUT
Monday, Jan 23, 8:00pm-9:00pm, 915 Hethwood Boulevard
Ever wanted to try a martial art? Need a break from working on you research and thesis? Now’s your chance! The Olympic Taekwondo Club is holding an open workout for anyone who is interested in trying taekwondo. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome. For more information, contact grad student Casey Denham at cldenham@vt.edu <mailto:cldenham@vt.edu> .

LUNCH WITH THE DEAN
Tuesday, Jan 24, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
Meet Graduate School Dean Dr. Karen DePauw and graduate student leaders at a free lunch.  Learn about the latest in graduate education and share your perspectives in a casual setting. Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_afRjZ87dsfCCNkp

WRITING A WINNING RESUME
Tuesday, Jan 24, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room G
Having a well-polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview.  Start early to be ready for spring career fairs and on-campus interviews. Email Katie Beach at katieatc@vt.edu if you have questions.