Author: chameleo

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. ANDREA GIBSON: POETRY, GENDER NORMS, SOCIAL JUSTICE
Monday, Apr 25, 7:00pm, Haymarket Theater, Squires
Poet and activist Andrea Gibson discusses gender norms, social justice concerns, LGBTQA+ issues and obstacles. “Gibson has headlined prestigious performance venues coast to coast with powerful readings on war, class, gender, bullying, white privilege, sexuality, love, and spirituality. Her work has been featured on the BBC, Air America, C-SPAN, Free Speech TV and in 2010 was read by a state representative in lieu of morning prayer at the Utah State Legislature. Brought to you by Virginia Tech Union.

3. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Apr 26, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

4. GMOs AND YOU: A SCIENCE-BASED PANEL DISCUSSION ON GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS
Tuesday, Apr 26, 6:00-7:30pm, Litton Reaves Hall 1670 (main auditorium)
The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Graduate Student Council is hosting this panel on genetically modified organisms. Food and refreshments will be provided. Learn the facts from Virginia Tech faculty experts about how the use of genetically modified organisms affect your diet, animals, the environment, and social and economic health! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1722797324602671/. Posted on behalf of grad student Lily Yang.

5. COKIE ROBERTS LECTURE & BOOK SIGNING: CAPITAL DAMES – THE CIVIL WAR AND WOMEN OF WASHINGTON
Tuesday, Apr 26, 7:30-9:30pm, The Lyric
Join history grad student Kevin Caprice and Dr. Quigley for this free lecture sponsored by the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies. The lecture will be followed by a Q&A and book signing. For more information visit http://www.civilwar.vt.edu/wordpress/events/. Posted on behalf of Kevin Caprice, caprice3@vt.edu.

6. SHORT STATS COURSE FOR GRADS: ITRO TO MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE (MANOVA) IN JMP
Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00pm; 1100 Torgersen Hall
MANOVA is a way to test hypothesis on two or more dependent variables. Taught by Sumin Shen, the goal of this short course is to provide a guide to MANOVA for researches who are interested in multivariate method analysis. MANOVA is an extension of ANOVA in terms of the number of dependent variables. When there are more than one dependent variable, MANOVA is one of the methods to be considered. The JMP software will be used in this course. Visit http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses to learn more and register.

7. GSA BREAKZONE EVENT: FREE BOWLING, POOL, PING PONG, AND VIDEOGAMES
Tuesday, Apr 26, 5:00-8:00pm, BreakZone in Squires Student Center
Free event! Join the Graduate Student Assembly for a free night of bowling, pool, ping pong, and videogames! Bring your Hokie ID and enjoy unlimited play throughout BreakZone. This event is open to all VT graduate and undergraduate students. For more details, check out the Facebook event at https://www.facebook.com/events/177593815967752/ or email Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu.

8. GSA SPRING EVENT: PHD MOVIE & PHD MOVIE 2!
Wednesday, Apr 27, 7:00-10:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Love reading the PhD comics? Want to take a night off from study/research and laugh at how ridiculously hilarious graduate school can be at times? If yes, this event is for you! The GSA invites you to its showings of the PhD Movie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpZ5rS4KhOA) and PhD Movie 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb2y_a7hL5M). The first movie begins at 7pm with the second movie beginning approximately at 8:30pm. A short intermission will be held between the two movies. Admission is free. Contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu with questions.

9. TILAPA FILET SENSORY STUDY
Thursday, Apr 28, 10:00am-4:00pm, Sensory Lab, HABB 1 (1230 Washington Street)
VT food science researchers are conducting sensory evaluation to determine the consumer acceptability of healthier and nutritionally improved tilapia fillet. Participants must taste small portions of two different cooked tilapia fillets and determine how they prefer a sample over another, and whether one has stronger off-flavor than another. More than 60 people are needed to participate. Panels will take approximately 5-15 minutes to complete. Participants will receive free snacks after the completion. Must not have seafood sensitivity or known allergies to fish; must be 18 or older and regularly consumes white fish. For more information, email Hyun Sik S. Chu @ hyunsikc@vt.edu.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 28, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can.

11. LAST KIDS’ NIGHT OUT OF THE SEMESTER
Thursday, Apr 28, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center (206 Washington St)
Any 2-12-year-old  child of a VT student (must be toilet trained) pay participate. Games, snacks and activities provided! Contact Jessie Meltsner  (jmelts@vt.edu) for more information.

12. SURVIVING YOUR FIRST JOB OR INTERNSHIP
Thursday, Apr 28, 6:00-7:00pm, Room 110 Smith Career Center
Career Services hosts these workshops to share some not-so-obvious tips and advice on being professional, while incorporating real stories of employer feedback and previous Hokies who have had “unique” experiences on the job. Whether a job or internship has been secured or not — all students are welcome!

13. WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDIES CONFERENCE: DIGITAL FEMINISMS
Friday, Apr 29, 9:00am-5:00pm, 310 Kelly Hall
You are invited to the free Women’s and Gender Studies Conference – come support your fellow graduate students as they present original research on the topic of feminism in the digital age! Breakfast will be available beginning at 8 am, lunch is also provided. Full schedule at www.twitter.com/katrinapowell; www.facebook.com/wgsatvt. Posted on behalf of grad student Katie Ayers.

14. GRAD ART COUNCIL ART SHOWCASE
Friday, Apr 29, 8:00pm, Theatre 101 (200 College Ave–across from Gillie’s)
The Graduate Arts Council is proud to present its First Annual Art Showcase! This evening of live performance and diverse curated displays will feature graduate work in film, theatre, experimental performance and installation art, print media, 3D art, readings and paintings. There will even be a magic show! This event is free and open to the public and will be followed up with a display at the GLC.

15. GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH PICTURES NEEDED – 1st posting
The Graduate School is creating slideshows to display before and during commencement on the video boards in Cassell Coliseum. Photos are needed that show graduate students in action and shares your graduate student experience – anything from research to graduate student life. Email photographs to grads@vt.edu by Friday, Apr 29.

16. APPLICATIONS INVITED FOR GRAD HONOR SYSTEM CHIEF JUSTICE POSITION – 1st posting
The Graduate Honor System is searching for a new chief justice for the 2016-17 academic year. Applicants must meet the following criteria: (1) be a graduate student in good standing who has been in residence for a minimum of one semester; (2) be able to serve as Chief Justice for at least one year while enrolled full-time in the Blacksburg campus. Preferably applicants should have experience as a GHS investigator or panelist. To apply, submit a statement of interest, resume, and one letter of reference to gibsonm@vt.edu by Monday, May 16. The new Chief Justice will be selected by a committee and ratified by the Graduate Student Assembly and the Commission on Graduate Studies and Policies before final appointment by the president.

17. INTERLOPER SEEKING CONTRIBUTORS – 1st posting
The Interloper, Virginia Tech’s LGBT magazine, is looking for enthusiastic, hard-working contributors for its 5th issue. Editors, writers, artists, photographers, and designers are needed. If you are interested in getting involved, please email Maggie Nanney at theinterlopervt@gmail.com.

18. CALL FOR PLEDGES OF SUPPORT TO “GREEN GRADS OF VT” – 1st posting
If you would like to participate in the Office of Sustainability’s program “Green Graduates of Virginia Tech,” send a quick blurb of how you pledge to support a sustainable world and a photo of yourself (think “Humans of New York” project or just your standard selfie) to the “Green Graduates of Virginia Tech” facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Green-Graduates-of-Virginia-Tech-465341976985523/timeline or to kshepard@vt.edu and they will post the photo for you, along with your name, major(s), and college(s). Participants will receive a free green sustainability cord for graduation! Green cord pickup will be available Tue-Thu May 10-12, Squires Info Desk A  10:00am-2:00pm as well as at the Grad Bash on Wed May 11, 3:00-6:00pm. Posted on behalf of grad student Katy Shepard.

20. SUMMER AND FALL REGISTRATION OPEN FOR GRAD CHILD CARE COOP – 2nd posting
The Little Hokie Hangout cooperative child care center is now enrolling for Summer and Fall 2016. Spaces are limited for this summer term, and are expected to fill quickly, so please don’t wait! Students enrolled in Summer session have priority for Fall enrollment. Please email Marin Riegger, Child Care Coordinator, at mriegger@vt.edu with any questions or to schedule a tour.

21. CALL FOR NOMATIONS FOR ETD INNOVATION AND ETD LEADERSHIP AWARDS – 2nd posting
Nominations are accepted for both the ETD innovation award and the ETD Leadership award. Online nomination forms available at http://goo.gl/forms/LfISsu5ccl for ETD innovation and at http://goo.gl/forms/cRz6T1mf5O for ETD leadership. The innovation award is now available to current students working on a thesis or dissertation in hopes that the award can assist in the creation of innovative ETDs. For the complete criteria visit: http://www.ndltd.org/ndltd-awards/award-nominations. Deadline for nominations is May 31, 2016.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON MUSCLE METABOLISM & DIET – 1st posting
Volunteers are needed for a study examining how diet influences muscle metabolism. Must be: 18-40 years old; 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 up to $400 to compensate for your time.  If you meet the above requirements and are interested in participating, contact Mary Elizabeth Baugh or Elaina Marinik at the VT Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory: westerndiet@gmail.com  website: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_eKX222gpcgRqZLv.

23. TEENAGE PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR SURVEY ON ADOLESCENT STRESS – 1st posting
The VT Sibling Research Lab is conducting a survey on adolescent stress for teens (ages 12-18) who live at home with at least one brother or sister. The survey takes 15-20 minutes to complete and is accessible at https://redcap.vtc.vt.edu/surveys/?s=FXHFAPTFDF. Participants may receive an Amazon gift card. Contact Dr. Carolyn Shivers (shivercm@vt.edu) if you have any questions.

24. GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK SURVEY INVITATION FOR GRADS – 1st posting
Do you have great ideas for events that can be included in Graduate Education Week in the future? Did you participate in Graduate Education Week this semester and have useful suggestions or feedback for the Graduate School? Please help us plan for next year’s events by participating in our survey and giving us your valued ideas and feedback at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_e537pTqwa3EEN9z

25. FEMALE STEM GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT AS PRESENTERS FOR SUMMER CAMP IN ROANOKE – 1st posting
The Science Museum of Western Virginia (SMWV) in downtown Roanoke is hosting two summer camps for female students in grades K-5 to promote women in STEM fields. SMWV seeks women professionals actively involved in STEM disciplines as guest lecturers or presenters to provide a 45-60 minute presentation and hands on activity. Camp dates: Girls K-2 Jun 13-17; Girls grades 3-5 Jun 27-Jul 1. SMWV is seeking women who are willing to work with the museum’s educators to present topics in a way that would allow students to grasp the information, serve as female role models actively involved in a STEM field with a secondary goal of conveying the fundamentals of some STEM disciplines. If interested, contact Hannah Weiss, hweiss@smwv.org.

26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR INFO DISPLAY STUDY – 1st posting
The effects of different types of information display (i.e. paper-based system, head-down, and head-up display) on walking behaviors will be investigated. Participants will be asked to perform a cognitive task while walking on a treadmill. Different display types will be also used. Must be age 18-35; no current or recent history (1 year) of musculoskeletal problems; must have normal or corrected to normal vision; fluent in English; have a smartphone or experience in using smartphones. Participants will be asked to perform walking tasks with different information presentation methods in a laboratory setting in the ISE department. Two sessions (preliminary & data collection).         Compensation: $10/hr, ~ 30 min for preliminary session; ~2.5 hrs in experimental sessions. Call or email Mr. Alireza Sedighi if interested: 540-394-8441; sedighia@vt.edu.

27. ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION COMMUTER SURVEY STILL OPEN – 1st posting
The VT Alternative Transportation office is conducting a biennial Commuter Survey, the results of which will inform transportation decisions on the Blacksburg campus. Make your opinions and needs heard, take the survey and share it widely: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_9RmEIVGYUvFXyct. Send questions to gettingaround@vt.edu or call (540) 231 2701.

28. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON USER EXPERIENCE IN WEB-BASED IMMERSIVE ENVIRONMENT – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for a comparative pilot study on user experience for navigation and object selection in web-based immersive environment. The study involves one 60-min session per participant; 20 minutes for actual usability testing and 40 minutes for briefing, training and filling out required forms. Participants will have a chance to win a  $10 Campus Bookstore gift card (a winning chance of 1 in 10). Must be 18 years or older. For further information and scheduling, contact: Chandani Shrestha at chandani@vt.edu.

29. LIBRARY SURVEY INVITATION FOR GRADS – 3rd posting
Do you use the on-campus library? What about the Graduate Student Lounge on the 4th floor? Did you know it exists? The Library Committee is asking graduate students to respond to a very short survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1459363094757 to share how this space is used and how it can be improved. The survey will close on Apr 25.

30. STEM GRAD STUDENT TRAINING & CAREER OPPORTUNITIES STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 3rd posting
STEM grad students are invited to complete a survey to help researchers at Harvard figure out how training and employment goals of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students and postdoctoral fellows can be addressed through programs and job creation. The survey takes 10-20 minutes to complete and the survey is available at https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3wIMLGNvgeFfYUd&school=Virgina%20Tech. Participants may enter in a lottery for one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards through a link at the end of the survey. Information provided for the lottery will not be linked to your study responses and will be deleted after winners have been contacted. Researchers hope to publish survey results to help advise governments and education institutions regarding the creation of programs and jobs for STEM graduates like you. For more information contact Dr. Joey Pakes Nelson, pakes@fasmail.harvard.edu.

31. ANIMAL SUPPLIES AND ITEMS SOUGHT FOR VET SCHOOL FUNDRAISER – 3rd posting
Graduate student Stamps Scholars at the vet school are collecting animal supplies and new or gently used shoes to benefit the Giles Animal Rescue. Rabbit bedding and food, cat litter, litter boxes, leashes, collars, harnesses, towels, and paper towels can be dropped off in the vet school cafeteria or in front of the main office in CMMID through Apr 15. The shoes will be used as a fundraiser in partnership with funds2orgs (funds2orgs.com) and can be dropped off at designated bins at: the vet school cafeteria, the lobby of Life Sciences 1, the lobby of ILSB at the CRC, or the main hall at CMMID through May 15. For more information, or to arrange pick up of any of these items, contact Anne Nichols (annen@vt.edu).

UPCOMING EVENTS:

TECHNICAL SEMINAR WITH DIAVOLO – ARCHITECTURE IN MOTION
Wednesday, May 4, 1:30-2:30pm, Balcony Lobby, Moss Arts Center
Speak with the artists of Diavolo|Architecture in Motion as they lead an in depth discussion about the inspiration, design, construction, and mechanics of the elaborate architectural pieces at the center of their work. To register email Donna Thompson at tdonna27@vt.edu.

DIVERSITY SPOTLIGHT: DIVERSITY SCHOLARS PRESENTATIONS
Thursday, May 5, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The Graduate School is hosting the 6th Annual Diversity Spotlight event featuring Diversity Scholar projects. Lunch is provided so please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_eyrIV2bZEV6XfOR#sthash.KgxGLdCq.dpuf. Contact Dannette Beane at gomezds@vt.edu for more information.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. DIALOGUE WITH THE CREATORS OF “(BE)LONGING”
Monday, Apr 18, 2016, 5:30-7:00PM, Moss Arts Ctr, Merryman Family Learning Studio
Join guest artists Byron Au Yong (composer) and Aaron Jafferis (playwright) for this informal public dialogue and learn about their new project, (Be)longing, to be locally cast and presented by the center in March 2017. (Be)longing and related curricular and community activities will reflect on violence and school shootings and consider deeper ways to connect and build communities of safety and support. The team has conducted creative research in Blacksburg and in other locations for the past two years, with the center as a co-commissioner of the new work. Space for the Apr 18 dialogue is limited, so please register online at: http://tinyurl.com/belongingdialogue if you are planning to attend.

3. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Apr 19, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

4. TORGERSEN RESEARCH AWARD RECEPTION & PRESENTATIONS
Tuesday, Apr 19, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn about the latest cutting-edge research in the College of Engineering at the Torgersen Graduate Student Research Excellence Award Ceremony and ask the researchers all your questions. Poster presentations 2:00-4:30pm, followed by an open reception at 5:00. The official ceremony is carded for 5:30-7:30pm and includes presentations by keynote speaker Dr. Michael Friedlander, and the competition finalists. For more information see http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.html.

5. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 21, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can.

6. LIVING IN THE ANTHROPOCENE: SCIENCE SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIETY
Thursday, Apr 21, 4:45-5:45pm, The Lyric
Dr. Josh Tewksbury is an ecologist, conservation biologist, and planetary health scientist with experience in academia and civil society. His work is focused on major global change issues, including the impacts of climate change on biodiversity  and the impacts of species loss on ecosystem functions. This event is hosted by the Global Change Center at Virginia Tech. For more information contact Gloria Schoenholtz at schoeng@vt.edu.

7. VT PAWS SPECIAL EDITION @ GLC
Thursday, Apr 21, 6:30-7:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GLC Fellows invite you to come relieve some stress with the amazing VT PAWS Therapy animals. Students from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine will be there with their dogs and cats. Come hang out, spend some time with the animals, take a break from studying, and relax! To learn more about VT PAWS, visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/VTHelpingPAWS/?fref=ts or their website,  http://www.vetmed.vt.edu/vthelpingpaws/.  If you have any questions, contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu.

8. SPRING RETREAT: "TRANSITIONS: WALKING IN FAITH THROUGH LIFE’S CHANGES"
Friday, Apr 22, 8:00pm through Sunday, Apr 24, 11:00am near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $35 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. Hosted by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship. For more information and to register online, visit <http://goo.gl/forms/3VV35LcWq2>. Contact Robert Howe at robahowe@gmail.com with any questions.

9. MARTIAL ARTS COUNCIL AND HELP SAVE THE NEXT GIRL PRESENT: SELF DEFENSE SEMINAR
Sunday, Apr 24, 5:00-8:00pm, Dance Room in War Memorial Gym
The seminar will touch on awareness, avoidance, body and fight mechanics, self-defense techniques, legal considerations, and dealing with the aftermath. The course will be co-taught by instructors from Bujinkan Taijutsu, Kodokan Aikido, MMA, and TaeKwonDo clubs. Bring exercise clothes and a water bottle. Gobblerconnect event: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/mac/calendar/details/941804; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1524793471163795/. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Jacob Monzel, jmonzel@vt.edu.

10. SUMMER AND FALL REGISTRATION OPEN FOR GRAD CHILD CARE COOP – 1st posting
The Little Hokie Hangout cooperative child care center is now enrolling for Summer and Fall 2016. Spaces are limited for this summer term, and are expected to fill quickly, so please don’t wait! Students enrolled in Summer session have priority for Fall enrollment. Please email Marin Riegger, Child Care Coordinator, at mriegger@vt.edu with any questions or to schedule a tour.

11. CALL FOR NOMATIONS FOR ETD INNOVATION AND ETD LEADERSHIP AWARDS – 1st posting
Nominations are accepted for both the ETD innovation award and the ETD Leadership award. Online nomination forms available at http://goo.gl/forms/LfISsu5ccl for ETD innovation and at http://goo.gl/forms/cRz6T1mf5O for ETD leadership. The innovation award is now available to current students working on a thesis or dissertation in hopes that the award can assist in the creation of innovative ETDs. For the complete criteria visit: http://www.ndltd.org/ndltd-awards/award-nominations. Deadline for nominations is May 31, 2016.

12. CALL FOR PAPERS FOR SPECTRA – 2nd posting
SPECTRA: the ASPECT journal is currently seeking initial abstracts for Issue 5.2 with the theme "Crisis and Transformation." Submissions may include digitized paintings, photographs, collages, podcasts, poems, short stories, internet-hosted texts, comics, videos, and other media with which to broadly engage topics of crisis and transformation– as well as traditional essay abstracts. Initial project descriptions/samples due Friday, Apr 15. Details can be found here: https://spectrajournal.org/index.php/SPECTRA/announcement/view/14. Posted on behalf of ASPECT student Jordan Laney.

13. GA OPENING IN OOIA FOR 2016-17 – 2nd posting
The Office of Outreach and International Affairs is looking for a graduate student for the 2016-17 academic year to work up to 20 hrs/wk on implementing programs and projects that will support the vision of the associate VP for implementing international strategies, collaborations and programs, working collaboratively with a variety of individuals across the university. Preference given for a current master’s or doctoral student, excellent communication and writing skills; interest in international education administration, the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff and administrators; experience working with people of diverse cultures and nations; and the ability to organize, prioritize and leverage resources for multiple projects.  To view the full position description and apply, go to https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cCjLnm9UKlabkVv.  Applications are being accepted through Apr 22. 

14. PAID PRACTICUM/INTERNSHIP POSITION IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION – 3rd posting
The Department of Engineering Education is seeking applications for an advising practicum or internship student for the summer. Wage appointment. See minimum requirements, job duties and application details at: http://www.enge.vt.edu/_files/undergraduate/advising_internship.pdf. 

15. SUMMER INTERNSHIP OPENING IN MAOP – 3rd posting
The Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) is hiring 2 program assistants to provide support to the summer research internship program and work closely with MAOP staff. Assistants will also be assigned a group of interns to work with as first point of contact. Responsibilities:  Prepare notebooks for incoming interns; Transport students to and from the airport or bus station; assist with check in/out of residence hall; Ensure interns attend classes and workshops; Make presentations to interns about graduate; and more. Pay: $14/hr, approx. 20 hrs/wk plus additional programs. Must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents. Apply online at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5pQfheuNuHGPnyB. Contact Jody Thompson Marshall with questions at jodyt@vt.edu.

16. ICTAS LOOKING FOR PT WEB AND GRAPHIC DESIGN ASSISTANT – 3rd posting
This position will provide web and design support for energy and materials initiatives at ICTAS, reporting to the faculty director and working closely with the communications team. Responsibilities include creation and maintenance of websites; development of scientific graphics for proposals; some graphic design work on printed materials; and related duties as assigned. The design assistant will work with colleagues to ensure that all materials maintain consistent design standards, and are compliant with VT branding policies. Flexible hours based on project needs, max 20 hrs/wk, $10/hour. Must have experience with WordPress and similar content-management platforms; basic familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite programs; ability to meet tight deadlines; great attention to detail; strong proof-reading skills; and an interest in conveying scientific information in an accurate and compelling manner. If interested, submit current resumé and three samples of work (including at least one website) to Jennifer Cacciola at jcacciola@vt.edu.

17. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON USER EXPERIENCE IN WEB-BASED IMMERSIVE ENVIRONMENT – 1st posting
Participants are sought for a comparative pilot study on user experience for navigation and object selection in web-based immersive environment. The study involves one 60-min session per participant; 20 minutes for actual usability testing and 40 minutes for briefing, training and filling out required forms. Participants will have a chance to win a  $10 Campus Bookstore gift card (a winning chance of 1 in 10). Must be 18 years or older. For further information and scheduling, contact: Chandani Shrestha at chandani@vt.edu.

18. LIBRARY SURVEY INVITATION FOR GRADS – 2nd posting
Do you use the on-campus library? What about the Graduate Student Lounge on the 4th floor? Did you know it exists? The Library Committee is asking graduate students to respond to a very short survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1459363094757 to share how this space is used and how it can be improved. The survey will close on Apr 25.

19. STEM GRAD STUDENT TRAINING & CAREER OPPORTUNITIES STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
STEM grad students are invited to complete a survey to help researchers at Harvard figure out how training and employment goals of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students and postdoctoral fellows can be addressed through programs and job creation. The survey takes 10-20 minutes to complete and the survey is available at https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3wIMLGNvgeFfYUd&school=Virgina%20Tech. Participants may enter in a lottery for one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards through a link at the end of the survey. Information provided for the lottery will not be linked to your study responses and will be deleted after winners have been contacted. Researchers hope to publish survey results to help advise governments and education institutions regarding the creation of programs and jobs for STEM graduates like you. For more information contact Dr. Joey Pakes Nelson, pakes@fasmail.harvard.edu.

20. ANIMAL SUPPLIES AND ITEMS SOUGHT FOR VET SCHOOL FUNDRAISER – 2nd posting
Graduate student Stamps Scholars at the vet school are collecting animal supplies and new or gently used shoes to benefit the Giles Animal Rescue. Rabbit bedding and food, cat litter, litter boxes, leashes, collars, harnesses, towels, and paper towels can be dropped off in the vet school cafeteria or in front of the main office in CMMID through Apr 15. The shoes will be used as a fundraiser in partnership with funds2orgs (funds2orgs.com) and can be dropped off at designated bins at: the vet school cafeteria, the lobby of Life Sciences 1, the lobby of ILSB at the CRC, or the main hall at CMMID through May 15. For more information, or to arrange pick up of any of these items, contact Anne Nichols (annen@vt.edu).

21. GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY PARTICIPATION – 3rd posting
Current or past Virginia Tech GTAs are sought to complete this 20-minute online survey about Autism Spectrum Disorders. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. Access survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8AkFupnszC4wZkF. For more information, please contact Tyler Hassenfeldt at thassen@vt.edu. This message is posted on behalf of Reina Factor, rfactor@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Remaining Spring 2016 Schedule:
Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP. Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH GRAD CONNECT LUNCH – register now!
Monday, Apr 25, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
Attendees will be able to connect with other students, professionals and community members that either identify with an Asian and/or Pacific Islander population or appreciate the various Asian and/or Pacific Islander populations. Attendees will be able to make connections and celebrate cultural accomplishments at Virginia Tech and in the New River Valley. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Klv7KM4K9wpiLz before 5pm on Monday, Apr 18. For questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

GSA SPRING EVENT: PHD MOVIE & PHD MOVIE 2!
Wednesday, Apr 27, 7:00-10:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Love reading the PhD comics? Want to take a night off from study/research and laugh at how ridiculously hilarious graduate school can be at times? If yes, this event is for you! The GSA invites you to its showings of the PhD Movie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpZ5rS4KhOA) and PhD Movie 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb2y_a7hL5M). The first movie begins at 7pm with the second movie beginning approximately at 8:30pm. A short intermission will be held between the two movies. Admission is free. Contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu with questions.

SURVIVING YOUR FIRST JOB OR INTERNSHIP
Thursday, Apr 28, 6:00-7:00pm, Room 110 Smith Career Center
Career Services hosts these workshops to share some not-so-obvious tips and advice on being professional, while incorporating real stories of employer feedback and previous Hokies who have had “unique” experiences on the job. Whether a job or internship has been secured or not — all students are welcome!

VT INTERCOM FACILITATOR TRAINING: DIALOGUES FOR SOCIAL CHANGE – register by 4/18!
Thursday-Sunday, May 19-22, 9:00am-5:00pm daily
The Intercultural Engagement Center invites applications for skill-based facilitator training with VTInterCom, a program that provides group dialogue opportunities for the VT campus and surrounding community. Facilitators will gain knowledge, strategies, and practice at facilitating discussions around inclusion, equity, oppression, institutional discrimination, social inequalities, and a broad range of contemporary issues such as sexism, racism, trans*phobia, heterosexism, ableism, poverty, cultural intolerance, and more. Participants receive facilitator curriculum, mentoring from trainers, and will be invited to remain part of the VTInterCom facilitator collective. Apply online at http://tinyurl.com/zw4fwpv  by 12:00pm, Monday, Apr 18.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

 2. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Apr 12, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

3. GSA SPRING EVENT: PHD MOVIE & PHD MOVIE 2 SHOWINGS!
Tuesday, Apr 12, 7:00-10:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Love reading the PhD comics? Want to take a night off from study/research and laugh at how ridiculously hilarious graduate school can be at times? If yes, this event is for you! The GSA invites you to its showings of the PhD Movie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpZ5rS4KhOA) and PhD Movie 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb2y_a7hL5M). The first movie begins at 7pm with the second movie beginning approximately at 8:30pm. A short intermission will be held between the two movies. This event will be repeated on Apr 27. Admission is free. Contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu with questions and check out the facebook event for more information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1173974775954419/.

4. PARENT SUPPORT LUNCH
Wednesday, Apr 13, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room G
Participants will hear from Dr. Elena Serrano, an expert in food systems and how they impact our ability to feed our families. As always, children are more than welcome, and spaces are limited, so please register at www.SignUpGenius.com/go/20F0E4FABAA28A1FF2-april as soon as possible. If you have any questions, email childcare@vt.edu.

5. RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTS: DEBUNKING FOOD & FOOD-SAFETY MYTHS
101
5:30-6:30 pm in the Museum, 2062 Derring
While Mark Twain is credited with saying that, “[t]he secret of success in life is to eat what you like and let the food fight it out inside,” realistically speaking, foodborne pathogens have the horrifying capabilities of wreaking havoc on your insides, your livelihood, and your life. There is a lot of information out there about food, but what are actually truths and what are myths? In this interactive talk, food-science graduate student Lily Yang will discuss the common misconceptions, truths, and myths surrounding food and food safety in order to keep yourself and your loved ones safe! Come for the talk and stay for free ice cream! Posted on behalf of doctoral student Lisa Whalen, lashley@vt.edu.

6. FREE PLAY: "COCK" BY MIKE BARTLETT
Wednesday-Friday, Apr 13-15, 7:30pm, Theatre 101 (200 College Ave.)
Directed by MFA candidate Thomas Murray. When John takes a break from his longtime relationship with his boyfriend, he accidentally falls in love with a woman. Torn between the two, John doesn’t know which way to turn. As both his boyfriend and his girlfriend fight to keep him, this comedy around identity and sexuality ultimately asks, who is John? And what will his decision be? FREE tickets are available first-come, first-served nightly at Theatre 101.

7. TURN YOUR PRESENTATION INTO AN ARTICLE: A WRITER’S WORKSHOP
Thursday, Apr 14, 9:00-10:30am, 3310 TORG
Friday, Apr 15, 1:00-2:30pm, 3310 TORG
The Writing Center is hosting these workshops to help graduate students turn their conference presentations into a journal article. The workshop will explore the similarities and differences of presentations and journal articles. You will then have the opportunity to turn your presentation into an article draft with guided support. Bring your presentation and laptop ready to work! Spaces are limited, so register early by emailing to Becky Morrison beckymor@vt.edu.

8. TIE DYE AND TACOS
Thursday, Apr 14, 12:00-2:00pm, Graduate School Lawn
Join the GLC Fellows for tacos from Moe’s and tie-dye a shirt. Tacos and tie-dye materials will be provided but please bring your own shirt. If you are interested, register at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cxam6YWnUWz6wnj to help organizers plan the logistics more effectively. For any questions, contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu.

9. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 14, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can.

10. BRING YOUR KIDS TO SCHOOL DAY!
Friday, Apr 15, 8:00-11:00 various locations, 11:15-1:30 Grad School lawn to Drillfield
Help raise awareness of infant- and child-care needs on campus by taking your child(ren) to your office/lab/class or other work area (check with your department to ensure safe arrangements; departments have been invited to participate) in the morning, then join other participants on the Grad School lawn at 11:15 to march together to the Drillfield where the event will conclude in a family picnic and remark by Dr. Laura Sands. This event is sponsored by the Graduate School. Some festive supplies will be provided and participating children may leave their hand prints on a banner. Contact Marin Riegger at mriegger@vt.edu with any questions.

11. LOAN REPAYMENT INFO SESSION
Friday, Apr 15, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room D or F (depending on interest)
Graduating in May?  Have questions about student loan repayment? Stephanie Breeding from VT University Scholarships and Financial Aid will discuss the loan repayment process as well as information on different repayment plans. Attend this session to learn about your options and try to make the best plan for the repayment of your student loans!

12. INTERNATIONAL STREET FAIR
Sunday, Apr 17, 12:00-5:00pm, College Ave/Downtown Blacksburg
The International Street Fair is presented by Cranwell International Center and the Council of International Student Organizations.  It celebrates the diversity of cultures present in our community by offering the sights, sounds, and tastes of the countries of origin of Virginia Tech’s students and scholars.  Rain or shine, festivities will be on College Avenue, Draper Road, and Henderson Lawn.

13. VT POLO MATCH – 2ND ANNUAL MERCEDES CUP
Sunday, Apr 17, 1:00-5:00pm, Alphin-Stuart Livestock Arena
The Polo Club is hosting the 2nd Annual Mercedes Cup, an exhibition polo match and wine tasting. Watch the Hokies take on the University of Virginia Cavaliers; experience the fast and furious game of polo, local wine and beer, and a variety of student organizations. Tickets are $10 with the wine tasting, $5 without. Doors open at 1:00pm with the main match starting at 2:00. The Polo Club is proud of all that they have accomplished, and hopes they can share the sport they love with the Blacksburg community. http://vtpoloclub.weebly.com/mercedes-cup.html. This message is posted on behalf of grad student Alie Lyon, lyonad@vt.edu.

14. CALL FOR PAPERS FOR SPECTRA – 1st posting
SPECTRA: the ASPECT journal is currently seeking initial abstracts for Issue 5.2 with the theme "Crisis and Transformation." Submissions may include digitized paintings, photographs, collages, podcasts, poems, short stories, internet-hosted texts, comics, videos, and other media with which to broadly engage topics of crisis and transformation– as well as traditional essay abstracts. Initial project descriptions/samples due Friday, Apr 15. Details can be found here: https://spectrajournal.org/index.php/SPECTRA/announcement/view/14. Posted on behalf of ASPECT student Jordan Laney.

15. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS TO INTERDISCIPLINARY SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting applications for membership through Friday, Apr 8. IDR promotes and facilitates interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and IDR offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Food is served at meetings! Any students, grad or undergrad, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines are invited to apply. Detailed information about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of Membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

16. GA OPENING IN OOIA FOR 2016-17 – 1st posting
The Office of Outreach and International Affairs is looking for a graduate student for the 2016-17 academic year to work up to 20 hrs/wk on implementing programs and projects that will support the vision of the associate VP for implementing international strategies, collaborations and programs, working collaboratively with a variety of individuals across the university. Preference given for a current master’s or doctoral student, excellent communication and writing skills; interest in international education administration, the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff and administrators; experience working with people of diverse cultures and nations; and the ability to organize, prioritize and leverage resources for multiple projects.  To view the full position description and apply, go to https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cCjLnm9UKlabkVv.  Applications are being accepted through Apr 22. 

17. PAID PRACTICUM/INTERNSHIP POSITION IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION – 2nd posting
The Department of Engineering Education is seeking applications for an advising practicum or internship student for the summer. Wage appointment. See minimum requirements, job duties and application details at: http://www.enge.vt.edu/_files/undergraduate/advising_internship.pdf. 

18. GA OPENING IN GRAD SCHOOL OFFICE OF RECRUITMENT AND DIVERSITY INITIATIVES – 2nd posting
The ORDI in the Graduate School seeks a full time graduate assistant to manage tours, email in response to inquiries, and plan events. Must have evidence of delivering excellent customer service, experience in managing events, strong communication skills, valid driver’s license and eligibility to drive fleet services vehicles, a strong attention to detail. Must be able to work Fridays and be able to start no later than Aug 10, 2016. Send resume/CV and cover letter addressing the above mentioned requirements to dannette@vt.edu by Tuesday Apr 12. 

19. SUMMER INTERNSHIP OPENING IN MAOP – 2nd posting
The Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) is hiring 2 program assistants to provide support to the summer research internship program and work closely with MAOP staff. Assistants will also be assigned a group of interns to work with as first point of contact. Responsibilities:  Prepare notebooks for incoming interns; Transport students to and from the airport or bus station; assist with check in/out of residence hall; Ensure interns attend classes and workshops; Make presentations to interns about graduate; and more. Pay: $14/hr, approx. 20 hrs/wk plus additional programs. Must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents. Apply online at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5pQfheuNuHGPnyB. Contact Jody Thompson Marshall with questions at jodyt@vt.edu.

20. ICTAS LOOKING FOR PT WEB AND GRAPHIC DESIGN ASSISTANT – 2nd posting
This position will provide web and design support for energy and materials initiatives at ICTAS, reporting to the faculty director and working closely with the communications team. Responsibilities include creation and maintenance of websites; development of scientific graphics for proposals; some graphic design work on printed materials; and related duties as assigned. The design assistant will work with colleagues to ensure that all materials maintain consistent design standards, and are compliant with VT branding policies. Flexible hours based on project needs, max 20 hrs/wk, $10/hour. Must have experience with WordPress and similar content-management platforms; basic familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite programs; ability to meet tight deadlines; great attention to detail; strong proof-reading skills; and an interest in conveying scientific information in an accurate and compelling manner. If interested, submit current resumé and three samples of work (including at least one website) to Jennifer Cacciola at jcacciola@vt.edu.

21. LIBRARY SURVEY INVITATION FOR GRADS – 1st posting
Do you use the on-campus library? What about the Graduate Student Lounge on the 4th floor? Did you know it exists? The Library Committee is asking graduate students to respond to a very short survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1459363094757 to share how this space is used and how it can be improved. The survey will close on Apr 25.

22. STEM GRAD STUDENT TRAINING & CAREER OPPORTUNITIES STUDY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
STEM grad students are invited to complete a survey to help researchers at Harvard figure out how training and employment goals of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students and postdoctoral fellows can be addressed through programs and job creation. The survey takes 10-20 minutes to complete and the survey is available at https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3wIMLGNvgeFfYUd&school=Virgina%20Tech. Participants may enter in a lottery for one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards through a link at the end of the survey. Information provided for the lottery will not be linked to your study responses and will be deleted after winners have been contacted. Researchers hope to publish survey results to help advise governments and education institutions regarding the creation of programs and jobs for STEM graduates like you. For more information contact Dr. Joey Pakes Nelson, pakes@fasmail.harvard.edu.

23. ANIMAL SUPPLIES AND ITEMS SOUGHT FOR VET SCHOOL FUNDRAISER – 1st posting
Graduate student Stamps Scholars at the vet school are collecting animal supplies and new or gently used shoes to benefit the Giles Animal Rescue. Rabbit bedding and food, cat litter, litter boxes, leashes, collars, harnesses, towels, and paper towels can be dropped off in the vet school cafeteria or in front of the main office in CMMID through Apr 15. The shoes will be used as a fundraiser in partnership with funds2orgs (funds2orgs.com) and can be dropped off at designated bins at: the vet school cafeteria, the lobby of Life Sciences 1, the lobby of ILSB at the CRC, or the main hall at CMMID through May 15. For more information, or to arrange pick up of any of these items, contact Anne Nichols (annen@vt.edu).

24. GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY PARTICIPATION – 2nd posting
Current or past Virginia Tech GTAs are sought to complete this 20-minute online survey about Autism Spectrum Disorders. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. Access survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8AkFupnszC4wZkF. For more information, please contact Tyler Hassenfeldt at thassen@vt.edu. This message is posted on behalf of Reina Factor, rfactor@vt.edu.

25. INVITATION TO COMPLETE SURVEY ABOUT SHUTTLE BETWEEN BBURG AND NCR – 3rd posting The Office of Parking and Transportation in the Division of Administrative Services is asking all students, and employees, and community members to take a brief, five-question survey to help the university gauge interest in a shuttle from the Blacksburg campus to the National Capital Region. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b42QgNsos4Hkt1z.

 26. PARTICIPATE IN BIENNIAL COMMUTER SURVEY – 3rd posting
The Office of Alternative Transportation is conducting the second biennial Commuter Survey, the results of which will be used to inform alternative transportation decisions on the Blacksburg campus. It is critical that a significant portion of the VT community respond to this survey so that results can be regarded as statistically significant and thus viable expressions of wants and needs on campus. This is your opportunity to get your voice heard! Take the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_9RmEIVGYUvFXyct. Send questions to office of Alternative Transportation at gettingaorund@vt.edu or (540) 231 2116.

27. CHILDREN 8-12 WITH FREQUENT TEMPER OUTBURSTS SOUGHT FOR TREATMENT STUDY – 3rd  posting
Children ages 8-12 are currently being enrolled for a free treatment study for anger and frequent temper outbursts. The treatment is designed to teach children to regulate their emotions, and will be conducted in 13 weekly sessions. Families will also receive $70 for completing assessment sessions for the study. If interested in enrolling your child in this study, contact Amber at MoodReg@gmail.com or call 540-231-9735 for more information.

28. INTERNATIONAL FEMALE PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY – 3rd posting
Female international graduate students are sought for a VT IRB-approved research study regarding the individuals or groups that support you during the graduate school. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. The purpose of this study is to understand the communities of support for female international graduate students at VT.  Face-to-face interviews will be conducted in English and are expected to last between 45 and 60 minutes. If you are interested or have questions, contact graduate student Wejdan Almunive for more information at wejdan3@vt.edu or Dannette Beane at 540-231-6529.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

SURVIVING YOUR FIRST JOB OR INTERNSHIP

Monday, Apr 18, 11:00am-12:00pm, Room 110 Smith Career Center

Thursday, Apr 28, 6:00-7:00pm, Room 110 Smith Career Center

Career Services hosts these workshops to share some not-so-obvious tips and advice on being professional, while incorporating real stories of employer feedback and previous Hokies who have had “unique” experiences on the job. Whether a job or internship has been secured or not — all students are welcome!

 

DIALOGUE WITH THE CREATORS OF “(BE)LONGING”

Monday, Apr 18, 2016, 5:30-7:00PM, Moss Arts Ctr, Merryman Family Learning Studio

Join guest artists Byron Au Yong (composer) and Aaron Jafferis (playwright) for this informal public dialogue and learn about their new project, (Be)longing, to be locally cast and presented by the center in March 2017. (Be)longing and related curricular and community activities will reflect on violence and school shootings and consider deeper ways to connect and build communities of safety and support. The team has conducted creative research in Blacksburg and in other locations for the past two years, with the center as a co-commissioner of the new work. Space for the Apr 18 dialogue is limited, so please register online at: http://tinyurl.com/belongingdialogue if you are planning to attend.

 

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE

LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Remaining Spring 2016 Schedule:

Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;

Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP. Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

 

TORGERSEN RESEARCH AWARD RECEPTION & PRESENTATIONS

Tuesday, Apr 19, GLC Multipurpose Room

Learn about the latest cutting-edge research in the College of Engineering at the Torgersen Graduate Student Research Excellence Award Ceremony and ask the researchers all your questions. Poster presentations 2:00-4:30pm, followed by an open reception at 5:00. The official ceremony is carded for 5:30-7:30pm and includes presentations by keynote speaker Dr. Michael Friedlander, and the competition finalists. For more information see http://www.gsc.eng.vt.edu/PET.html.

 

LIVING IN THE ANTHROPOCENE: SCIENCE SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIETY

Thursday, Apr 21, 4:45-5:45pm, The Lyric

Dr. Josh Tewksbury is an ecologist, conservation biologist, and planetary health scientist with experience in academia and civil society. His work is focused on major global change issues, including the impacts of climate change on biodiversity  and the impacts of species loss on ecosystem functions. This event is hosted by the Global Change Center at Virginia Tech. For more information contact Gloria Schoenholtz at schoeng@vt.edu.

 

SPRING RETREAT: "TRANSITIONS: WALKING IN FAITH THROUGH LIFE’S CHANGES"

Friday, Apr 22, 8:00pm through Sunday, Apr 24, 11:00am near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)

All VT graduate students are welcome to join a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $35 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. Hosted by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship. For more information and to register online, visit <http://goo.gl/forms/3VV35LcWq2>. Contact Robert Howe at robahowe@gmail.com with any questions.

 

MARTIAL ARTS COUNCIL AND HELP SAVE THE NEXT GIRL PRESENT: SELF DEFENSE SEMINAR

Sunday, Apr 24, 5:00-8:00pm, Dance Room in War Memorial Gym

The seminar will touch on awareness, avoidance, body and fight mechanics, self-defense techniques, legal considerations, and dealing with the aftermath. The course will be co-taught by instructors from Bujinkan Taijutsu, Kodokan Aikido, MMA, and TaeKwonDo clubs. Bring exercise clothes and a water bottle. Gobblerconnect event:

https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/mac/calendar/details/941804; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/1524793471163795/. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Jacob Monzel, jmonzel@vt.edu.

 

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH GRAD CONNECT LUNCH – register now!

Monday, Apr 25, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G

Attendees will be able to connect with other students, professionals and community members that either identify with an Asian and/or Pacific Islander population or appreciate the various Asian and/or Pacific Islander populations. Attendees will be able to make connections and celebrate cultural accomplishments at Virginia Tech and in the New River Valley. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Klv7KM4K9wpiLz before 5pm on Monday, Apr 18. For questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

 

VT INTERCOM FACILITATOR TRAINING: DIALOGUES FOR SOCIAL CHANGE – register now!

Thursday-Sunday, May 19-22, 9:00am-5:00pm daily

The Intercultural Engagement Center invites applications for skill-based facilitator training with VTInterCom, a program that provides group dialogue opportunities for the VT campus and surrounding community. Facilitators will gain knowledge, strategies, and practice at facilitating discussions around inclusion, equity, oppression, institutional discrimination, social inequalities, and a broad range of contemporary issues such as sexism, racism, trans*phobia, heterosexism, ableism, poverty, cultural intolerance, and more. Participants receive facilitator curriculum, mentoring from trainers, and will be invited to remain part of the VTInterCom facilitator collective. Apply online at http://tinyurl.com/zw4fwpv  by 12:00pm, Monday, Apr 18.

 

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Monday-Tuesday, Apr 4-5
SEC & ACC Schools work together to bring you this great opportunity to interact via chat sessions and meet employers recruiting talent across all majors and degrees!  Registration and participation are free! More details and registration available at https://www.careereco.com/events/secacc.

3. INTL FULBRIGHT OPPORTUNITIES INFO SESSIONS
Monday, Apr 4, 6:00–7:30pm, GLC Room C
Tuesday, Apr 5, 3:00–4:30pm, GLC room B
Wednesday, Apr 6, 9:00–10:30am, GLC room C
The Fulbright program offers US citizens funding opportunities for independent research/study projects, graduate degree enrollment, and English teaching assistantships in more than 130 countries. The application cycle opens Mar 31.  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. Info sessions will be held For more information, contact Betty Watts (bettyw@vt.edu; 231-7220).

4. GLC MOVIE NIGHT: INCEPTION
Monday, Apr 4, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Lounge
Come to the April Movie Night to watch "Inception"! The Graduate Fellows will be hosting the night of your dreams (HA!) with this amazing movie along with food, fun, and laughs. If you have any questions, email Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu.

5. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Apr 5, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

6. MANAGING YOUR SCHOLARLY PUBLISHING CAREER
Tuesday, Apr 5, GLC 3:00-5:00pm, Room F
Learn the basics of scholarly research, writing and publishing. This workshop will cover a range of topics including data management, preparing a thesis or dissertation, getting published, and raising your scholarly profile. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cvWIsDL3DEIJAhv if you are planning to attend. Brought to you by VT Libraries, this event closes the Grad School’s spring professional development series.

7. HISPANIC/LATINO RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – register now to present and/or attend
Wednesday, Apr 6, 12:00pm-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The symposium features the research of Hispanic/Latino students and research topics that are related to Hispanic/Latino issues. Students, faculty, and staff attend and network around these topics and build a stronger sense of community. Refreshments available. Contact Dannette gomezds@vt.edu by Mar 30 if you’d like to present. Register to attend at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6llAMxdOQWNPhNb.

8. INVENTING YOUR FUTURE THROUGH YOUR PROFESSIONAL & PERSONAL BRAND
Wednesday, Apr 6, 6:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
Listen to and learn from experts in the fields of communications, marketing, and branding on how to develop your own brand and professional skills, no matter your field. For more information, visit www.career.vt.edu or call 540-231-6241.

9. LISTENING TO BELIEF: LIVING IN AN INTERFAITH SOCIETY
Wednesday, Apr 6, 7:15-8:30pm, McBryde 328
Join a dialogue about living in an interfaith society. Hosted by Freethinkers at Virginia Tech and co-sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 7, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can.

11. GRAD STUDENT PLAY: SETNET
Thursday-Saturday, Apr 7-9, Theater 101
See an original play written and directed by MFA student Naphtali Leyland Fields. Setnet is the story of the fishermen on Wolf Island in remote Alaska, who are trying to survive another salmon season and each other. It is a raucous adventure play that includes a cappella singing. Bossman has been fishing on Wolf Island for 40 years, but nothing prepared him for the events of last summer. A fire burned down his cabin and his wife ran away. He, his daughter, and their greenhorn crew have to keep fishing through a season of bad luck, difficult weather, and ominous signs that maybe the misfortune they are encountering is not as accidental as it seems. Tickets are free but donations of non-perishable food items for the Blacksburg Food Pantry are encouraged. Reserve your tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/myevent?eid=22220921374.

12. GSA SPRING BEER AND WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 8, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring beer and wine social, which will once again showcase local, national, and international beer and wine, while providing graduate students the opportunity to network among researchers and colleagues. Bring proper identification for those 21+ who wish to drink. Admission: $10 for general, $5 for GSA delegates, and $5 for non-drinking participants. This event is cash only and open to the public. Contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu with any questions. RSVPs are appreciated, though not required, at https://www.facebook.com/events/238875233115004/.

13. GRADS GOT TALENT
Friday Apr 8, 6:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Come out and cheer on your fellow graduate students as they perform their special talents. Acts range from singing to magic tricks. Snacks and refreshments will be available with a small donation. All proceeds will benefit Relay for Life so be sure to bring some cash to donate to this great cause! Students interested in performing can sign-up at the following link until Wednesday at 5pm: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1457624448088. For any questions, reach out to GLC Fellow Scarlet at scarlet7@vt.edu.

14. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS TO INTERDISCIPLINARY SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP – 2nd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting applications for membership through Friday, Apr 8. IDR promotes and facilitates interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and IDR offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Food is served at meetings! Any students, grad or undergrad, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines are invited to apply. Detailed information about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of Membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

15. PAID PRACTICUM/INTERNSHIP POSITION IN ENGINEERING EDUCATION – 1st posting
The Department of Engineering Education is seeking applications for an advising practicum or internship student for the summer. Wage appointment. See minimum requirements, job duties and application details at: http://www.enge.vt.edu/_files/undergraduate/advising_internship.pdf. 

16. GA OPENING IN GRAD SCHOOL OFFICE OF RECRUITMENT AND DIVERSITY INITIATIVES – 1st posting
The ORDI in the Graduate School seeks a full time graduate assistant to manage tours, email in response to inquiries, and plan events. Must have evidence of delivering excellent customer service, experience in managing events, strong communication skills, valid driver’s license and eligibility to drive fleet services vehicles, a strong attention to detail. Must be able to work Fridays and be able to start no later than Aug 10, 2016. Send resume/CV and cover letter addressing the above mentioned requirements to dannette@vt.edu by Tuesday Apr 12. 

17. SUMMER INTERNSHIP OPENING IN MAOP – 1st posting
The Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) is hiring 2 program assistants to provide support to the summer research internship program and work closely with MAOP staff. Assistants will also be assigned a group of interns to work with as first point of contact. Responsibilities:  Prepare notebooks for incoming interns; Transport students to and from the airport or bus station; assist with check in/out of residence hall; Ensure interns attend classes and workshops; Make presentations to interns about graduate; and more. Pay: $14/hr, approx. 20 hrs/wk plus additional programs. Must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents. Apply online at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5pQfheuNuHGPnyB. Contact Jody Thompson Marshall with questions at jodyt@vt.edu.

18. ICTAS LOOKING FOR PT WEB AND GRAPHIC DESIGN ASSISTANT – 1st posting
This position will provide web and design support for energy and materials initiatives at ICTAS, reporting to the faculty director and working closely with the communications team. Responsibilities include creation and maintenance of websites; development of scientific graphics for proposals; some graphic design work on printed materials; and related duties as assigned. The design assistant will work with colleagues to ensure that all materials maintain consistent design standards, and are compliant with VT branding policies. Flexible hours based on project needs, max 20 hrs/wk, $10/hour. Must have experience with WordPress and similar content-management platforms; basic familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite programs; ability to meet tight deadlines; great attention to detail; strong proof-reading skills; and an interest in conveying scientific information in an accurate and compelling manner. If interested, submit current resumé and three samples of work (including at least one website) to Jennifer Cacciola at jcacciola@vt.edu.

19. 2016-17 GRADUATE ASSISTANT OPENING IN NEWMAN LIBRARY – 3rd posting
Newman Library is seeking one graduate assistant to work at the 2nd-floor Reference Assistance desk. The GA will work an average of 20 hours/week and receive a tuition waiver. Stipend will be determined by University Libraries. Hours determined upon hire. Must be able to work weekends and weeknights (until 12:00 midnight). Applications must include an application, current resume and cover letter. Submit to Lori Lee at ljlee@vt.edu by 5:00pm on Apr 15, 2016. Interviews will be scheduled in late April/early May.  Mandatory training of finalist will take place Aug 15-19, 2016.  A job description and application are online: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/students.

20. 2016-17 REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 3rd posting
Newman Library is seeking 5-7 reference library assistants to work at the 2nd-floor Reference Assistance Desk. RLAs work an average of 8-12 hours per week at $15.00/hour. These wage positions do not include a tuition waiver. Hours will be determined upon hire. Must be able to work weekends and weeknights (until 12:00 midnight). Applications must include an application, current resume and cover letter. Submit to Lori Lee at ljlee@vt.edu by 5:00pm on Apr 15, 2016. Interviews will be scheduled in late April/early May. Mandatory training will take place August 15-19, 2016. A job description and application can be found here: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/students. 

21. GRAD INTERN POSITION OPENING – 3rd posting
Advanced Research Computing (ARC) is seeking a grad intern to work with ARC scientists and corporate partner, Engility, to develop models and algorithms to support failure prediction on current High Performance Computing clusters within ARC. The successful candidate will work closely with research teams to understand different failure modes and derive statistical models and methods to predict failures. Duties will span from working with raw data to performing complex data analytics. Candidate will be responsible for: learning and using COTs analytic software as well as developing small applications to review data; provide project status updates and meeting pre-established deadlines. Must be self-starter and be able to work independently on projects and assignments. Internship to run Jun-Aug 2016. If interested, apply online at: https://careers-engility.icims.com/jobs/19041/high-performance-computing-%28hpc%29-researcher-intern/job.

22. SENSORY PANEL PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR TILAPIA FILLET EVALUATION
Tuesday, Apr 5, 10:00am-4:00pm, Sensory Lab, HABB 1 (Washington Street)
VT food science researchers are conducting sensory evaluation to determine the consumer acceptability of healthier and nutritionally improved tilapia fillet. Participants must taste small portions of two different cooked tilapia fillets and determine how they prefer a sample over another, and whether one has stronger off-flavor than another. More than 60 people are needed to participate. Panels will take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Participants will receive free snacks after the completion. Must not have seafood sensitivity or known allergies to fish; must be 18 or older and regularly consumes white fish. For more information, email Hyun Sik S. Chu @ hyunsikc@vt.edu.

23. GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY PARTICIPATION – 1st posting
Current or past Virginia Tech GTAs are sought to complete this 20-minute online survey about Autism Spectrum Disorders. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. Access survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8AkFupnszC4wZkF. For more information, please contact Tyler Hassenfeldt at thassen@vt.edu. This message is posted on behalf of Reina Factor, rfactor@vt.edu.

24. INVITATION TO COMPLETE SURVEY ABOUT SHUTTLE BETWEEN BBURG AND NCR – 2nd posting The Office of Parking and Transportation in the Division of Administrative Services is asking all students, and employees, and community members to take a brief, five-question survey to help the university gauge interest in a shuttle from the Blacksburg campus to the National Capital Region. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b42QgNsos4Hkt1z.

25. PARTICIPATE IN BIENNIAL COMMUTER SURVEY – 2nd posting
The Office of Alternative Transportation is conducting the second biennial Commuter Survey, the results of which will be used to inform alternative transportation decisions on the Blacksburg campus. It is critical that a significant portion of the VT community respond to this survey so that results can be regarded as statistically significant and thus viable expressions of wants and needs on campus. This is your opportunity to get your voice heard! Take the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_9RmEIVGYUvFXyct. Send questions to office of Alternative Transportation at gettingaorund@vt.edu or (540) 231 2116.

26. CHILDREN 8-12 WITH FREQUENT TEMPER OUTBURSTS SOUGHT FOR TREATMENT STUDY – 2nd posting
Children ages 8-12 are currently being enrolled for a free treatment study for anger and frequent temper outbursts. The treatment is designed to teach children to regulate their emotions, and will be conducted in 13 weekly sessions. Families will also receive $70 for completing assessment sessions for the study. If interested in enrolling your child in this study, contact Amber at MoodReg@gmail.com or call 540-231-9735 for more information.

27. INTERNATIONAL FEMALE PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY – 2nd posting
Female international graduate students are sought for a VT IRB-approved research study regarding the individuals or groups that support you during the graduate school. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. The purpose of this study is to understand the communities of support for female international graduate students at VT.  Face-to-face interviews will be conducted in English and are expected to last between 45 and 60 minutes. If you are interested or have questions, contact graduate student Wejdan Almunive for more information at wejdan3@vt.edu or Dannette Beane at 540-231-6529.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Remaining Spring 2016 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:00-6:00 pm: Better Data Visualization in R Using the ggplot2 Package;
• Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;
• Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP.

Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

FULBRIGHT RECEPTION
Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:30–6:30 pm, University Club
The Office of the Provost and the Office of the VP for Outreach and International Affairs are hosting a Fulbright reception for all returned and current Fulbright scholars and students, as well as anyone interested in learning more about Fulbright opportunities. The Fulbright Program provides funding for US and foreign students, scholars, and professionals to undertake graduate study, advanced research, and teaching opportunities. The event is open to everyone but registration is required. Contact Betty Watts for more information or to RSVP by Friday, Apr 8 (bettyw@vt.edu), 231-7220.

GSA SPRING EVENT: PHD MOVIE & PHD MOVIE 2 SHOWINGS!
Tuesday, Apr 12, 7:00-10:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Love reading the PhD comics? Want to take a night off from study/research and laugh at how ridiculously hilarious graduate school can be at times? If yes, this event is for you! The GSA invites you to its showings of the PhD Movie (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpZ5rS4KhOA) and PhD Movie 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yb2y_a7hL5M). The first movie begins at 7pm with the second movie beginning approximately at 8:30pm. A short intermission will be held between the two movies. This event will be repeated on Apr 27. Admission is free. Contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu with questions and check out the facebook event for more information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1173974775954419/.

PARENT SUPPORT LUNCH
Wednesday, Apr 13, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room G
Participants will hear from Dr. Elena Serrano, an expert in food systems and how they impact our ability to feed our families. As always, children are more than welcome, and spaces are limited, so please register at www.SignUpGenius.com/go/20F0E4FABAA28A1FF2-april as soon as possible. If you have any questions, email childcare@vt.edu.

FREE PLAY: "COCK" BY MIKE BARTLETT
Wednesday-Friday, Apr 13-15, 7:30pm, Theatre 101 (200 College Ave.)
Directed by MFA candidate Thomas Murray. When John takes a break from his longtime relationship with his boyfriend, he accidentally falls in love with a woman. Torn between the two, John doesn’t know which way to turn. As both his boyfriend and his girlfriend fight to keep him, this comedy around identity and sexuality ultimately asks, who is John? And what will his decision be? FREE tickets are available first-come, first-served nightly at Theatre 101.

TIE DYE AND TACOS
Thursday, Apr 14, 12:00-2:00pm, Graduate School Lawn
Join the GLC Fellows for tacos from Moe’s and tie-dye a shirt. Tacos and tie-dye materials will be provided but please bring your own shirt. If you are interested, register at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cxam6YWnUWz6wnj to help organizers plan the logistics more effectively. For any questions, contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu.

BRING YOUR KIDS TO SCHOOL DAY!
Friday, Apr 15, 8:00-11:00 various locations, 11:15-1:30 Grad School lawn to Drillfield
Help raise awareness of infant- and child-care needs on campus by taking your child(ren) to your office/lab/class or other work area (check with your department to ensure safe arrangements; departments have been invited to participate) in the morning, then join other participants on the Grad School lawn at 11:15 to march together to the Drillfield where the event will conclude in a family picnic and remark by Dr. Laura Sands. This event is sponsored by the Graduate School. Some festive supplies will be provided and participating children may leave their hand prints on a banner. Contact Marin Riegger at mriegger@vt.edu with any questions.

LOAN REPAYMENT INFO SESSION
Friday, Apr 15, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room D or F (depending on interest)
Graduating in May?  Have questions about student loan repayment? Stephanie Breeding from VT University Scholarships and Financial Aid will discuss the loan repayment process as well as information on different repayment plans. Attend this session to learn about your options and try to make the best plan for the repayment of your student loans!

VT POLO MATCH – 2ND ANNUAL MERCEDES CUP
Sunday, Apr 17, 1:00-5:00pm, Alphin-Stuart Livestock Arena
The Polo Club is hosting the 2nd Annual Mercedes Cup, an exhibition polo match and wine tasting. Watch the Hokies take on the University of Virginia Cavaliers; experience the fast and furious game of polo, local wine and beer, and a variety of student organizations. Tickets are $10 with the wine tasting, $5 without. Doors open at 1:00pm with the main match starting at 2:00. The Polo Club is proud of all that they have accomplished, and hopes they can share the sport they love with the Blacksburg community. http://vtpoloclub.weebly.com/mercedes-cup.html. This message is posted on behalf of grad student Alie Lyon, lyonad@vt.edu.

ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH GRAD CONNECT LUNCH – register now!
Monday, Apr 25, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
Attendees will be able to connect with other students, professionals and community members that either identify with an Asian and/or Pacific Islander population or appreciate the various Asian and/or Pacific Islander populations. Attendees will be able to make connections and celebrate cultural accomplishments at Virginia Tech and in the New River Valley. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6Klv7KM4K9wpiLz before 5pm on Monday, Apr 18. For questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. UGANDA’S MELLOW MUSHROOM PERCENTAGE NIGHT
Monday, Mar 28, 5:00-9:00pm, Mellow Mushroom, Bburg
Come out to Mellow Mushroom and support the Uganda Project of Engineers Without Borders. All proceeds are going towards student travel this summer to work on solar panel systems at three site locations. You can dine in or get it to go, so no excuses; just tell them you’re participating in the EWB fundraiser! EWB-VT Uganda is a project that mainly focuses on solar power system installation in Central Uganda. Posted on behalf of grad student Tim Pierce, timomp13@vt.edu. See https://www.facebook.com/events/1678937005688618 for details.

3. DMV2GO MOBILE SERVICE ON CAMPUS
Tuesday, Wednesday, Mar 29-30, 9:00am-3:00pm, Litton Reeves parking lot
Take advantage of the DMV mobile unit coming to campus on Tuesday and Wednesday to get your DMV service needs taken care of without having to travel to Christiansburg.

4. ROANOKE GSA MEETING
Tuesday, Mar 29, 9:30am, VT Carilion Research Institute  R 3012
The Roanoke Graduate Assembly (RGSA) will be holding its first meeting on Tuesday at the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute (VTCRI) in the third floor conference room, R3012. If you are graduate student working and/or living in Roanoke, you are encouraged to attend. If you have question, email Cameron Varano at cburk05@vt.edu.

5. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Mar 29, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

6. FINDING THE RIGHT FIT: TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT ADVISOR AND MENTOR
Thursday, Mar 31, 12:15-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Facilitated by grad student ombudsperson Monique McKay, a panel of graduate students will discuss the ins and outs of finding the right advisor and mentor(s). Please register online at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/ (registration will open Monday afternoon) if you are planning to attend.

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 31, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can.

8. GRAPEVINE CONFERENCE: BEING BLACK IN WHITE SPACES
Thursday, Mar 31, 5:00pm, 335 Lavery Hall
The Grapevine Conference will host this student session with Dr. Stacey Pearson Wharton.  The program includes a light reception.  Please register at: http://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cAwX7fERni3yjch

9. FREE CIVIL WAR FILM SCREENING: THE RETRIEVAL
Saturday, Apr 2, 1:00-3:00pm, The Lyric
History grad student Kevin Caprice invites all grads to this civil war film screening, sponsored by the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies. Lear more about the event at http://www.civilwar.vt.edu/wordpress/events/. Contact Kevin at caprice3@vt.edu with any questions.

10. RECOVERY COMMUNITY AT VT PRESENTS: COSMIC BOWLING AND DINNER
Saturday, Apr 2, 8:00-10:00pm, Black Cultural Center and BREAKZone
Dinner from Moe’s will happen in the Black Cultural Center and bowling will follow in the BREAKzone. Please RSVP to vtrecovery@vt.edu. See details at https://drive.google.com/a/vt.edu/file/d/0B-d7QALF6SXYUmZLNkJib3pnVFU/view?usp=drive_web.

11. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS TO INTERDISCIPLINARY SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP – 1st posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting applications for membership through Friday, Apr 8. IDR promotes and facilitates interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and IDR offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Food is served at meetings! Any students, grad or undergrad, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines are invited to apply. Detailed information about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of Membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

12. GSA GRADUATION CAP & GOWN RENTAL PROGRAM – closes Apr 8
Are you graduating with a master’s or doctoral degree this spring? If yes, you might be eligible to borrow academic regalia from the GSA through this program that loans a limited number of graduation gowns and caps to graduate students. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA after the ceremonies. If interested, fill out a survey at https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/special-programs/gsa-graduation-gown-rental-program/ by Friday, Apr 8 at 5pm (EST) to be entered into a lottery. Rental recipients will be notified no later than Apr 13. All gowns have been dry cleaned but caps will not be cleaned due to their internal material. Questions? Contact GSA Events and Special Programs Chair Kisha Gresham kiwi@vt.edu.

13. NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED FOR CISO BOARD MEMBERSHIP – 2nd posting
Nominations are now open for Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) Board Members! To learn more about becoming a board member of CISO, the requirements, and to submit a nomination, visit: https://goo.gl/fbgLaz; nominations will be collected from Mar 14 through Apr 3. If you have any questions, contact Suzie Baker at sjbaker@vt.edu. 

14. GSA TRAVEL FUND SPRING CYCLE – deadline extended
If you’re planning to travel or have traveled to present your research at a scholarly conference between Jan 1 and Jun 30, 2016, consider applying for the Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP). Master’s/doctoral students and domestic/international travel are all eligible. Applications accepted for the spring cycle through Sunday, Apr 3, 2016, 11:59pm. Visit the TFP website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/ for details and to apply. Read all the eligibility requirements and the FAQ and check out the GSA’s other programs and opportunities while you’re there! New this year: you will be required to submit a certification letter signed by your advisor, or committee member or department head, replacing the ‘proof of peer review’ requirement in previous application cycles. The certification letter will be provided by the TFP and posted on the application site.  Contact Marie Stettler Kleine or Omchand Mahdu, TFP Co-Chairs at gradtravelfund1516@vt.edu with questions.

15. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE GLC WEEKLY APRIL-1 SPECIAL EDITION!
Here is your opportunity to 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, midnight. Send to gibsonm@vt.edu, with subject line: You are a fool.

16. 2016-17 GRADUATE ASSISTANT OPENING IN NEWMAN LIBRARY – 2nd posting
Newman Library is seeking one graduate assistant to work at the 2nd-floor Reference Assistance desk. The GA will work an average of 20 hours/week and receive a tuition waiver. Stipend will be determined by University Libraries. Hours determined upon hire. Must be able to work weekends and weeknights (until 12:00 midnight). Applications must include an application, current resume and cover letter. Submit to Lori Lee at ljlee@vt.edu by 5:00pm on Apr 15, 2016. Interviews will be scheduled in late April/early May.  Mandatory training of finalist will take place Aug 15-19, 2016.  A job description and application are online: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/students.

17. 2016-17 REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 2nd posting
Newman Library is seeking 5-7 reference library assistants to work at the 2nd-floor Reference Assistance Desk. RLAs work an average of 8-12 hours per week at $15.00/hour. These wage positions do not include a tuition waiver. Hours will be determined upon hire. Must be able to work weekends and weeknights (until 12:00 midnight). Applications must include an application, current resume and cover letter. Submit to Lori Lee at ljlee@vt.edu by 5:00pm on Apr 15, 2016. Interviews will be scheduled in late April/early May. Mandatory training will take place August 15-19, 2016. A job description and application can be found here: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/students. 

18. GRAD INTERN POSITION OPENING – 2nd posting
Advanced Research Computing (ARC) is seeking a grad intern to work with ARC scientists and corporate partner, Engility, to develop models and algorithms to support failure prediction on current High Performance Computing clusters within ARC. The successful candidate will work closely with research teams to understand different failure modes and derive statistical models and methods to predict failures. Duties will span from working with raw data to performing complex data analytics. Candidate will be responsible for: learning and using COTs analytic software as well as developing small applications to review data; provide project status updates and meeting pre-established deadlines. Must be self-starter and be able to work independently on projects and assignments. Internship to run Jun-Aug 2016. If interested, apply online at: https://careers-engility.icims.com/jobs/19041/high-performance-computing-%28hpc%29-researcher-intern/job.

19. INVITATION TO COMPLETE SURVEY ABOUT SHUTTLE BETWEEN BBURG AND NCR – 1st posting
The Office of Parking and Transportation in the Division of Administrative Services is asking all students, and employees, and community members to take a brief, five-question survey to help the university gauge interest in a shuttle from the Blacksburg campus to the National Capital Region. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b42QgNsos4Hkt1z.

20. PARTICIPATE IN BIENNIAL COMMUTER SURVEY – 1st posting
The Office of Alternative Transportation is conducting the second biennial Commuter Survey, the results of which will be used to inform alternative transportation decisions on the Blacksburg campus. It is critical that a significant portion of the VT community respond to this survey so that results can be regarded as statistically significant and thus viable expressions of wants and needs on campus. This is your opportunity to get your voice heard! Take the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_9RmEIVGYUvFXyct. Send questions to office of Alternative Transportation at gettingaorund@vt.edu or (540) 231 2116.

21. CHILDREN 8-12 WITH FREQUENT TEMPER OUTBURSTS SOUGHT FOR TREATMENT STUDY – 1st posting
Children ages 8-12 are currently being enrolled for a free treatment study for anger and frequent temper outbursts. The treatment is designed to teach children to regulate their emotions, and will be conducted in 13 weekly sessions. Families will also receive $70 for completing assessment sessions for the study. If interested in enrolling your child in this study, contact Amber at MoodReg@gmail.com or call 540-231-9735 for more information.

22. INTERNATIONAL FEMALE PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY – 1st posting
Female international graduate students are sought for a VT IRB-approved research study regarding the individuals or groups that support you during the graduate school. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. The purpose of this study is to understand the communities of support for female international graduate students at VT.  Face-to-face interviews will be conducted in English and are expected to last between 45 and 60 minutes. If you are interested or have questions, contact graduate student Wejdan Almunive for more information at wejdan3@vt.edu or Dannette Beane at 540-231-6529.

23. THE BIG EVENT GRADUATE COMMUNITY TEAM – 2nd posting
The Big Event on Saturday, Apr 9 is a student-run community service effort where everyone comes together to complete hundreds of community service projects throughout Blacksburg, Christiansburg and the New River Valley to give a big thanks to the local community that always supports our university. This year the graduate fellows are putting together a team just for graduate students. If you would like to spend the day volunteering and giving back to the local community while meeting new graduate students,  join the "GLC Graduate Community" team by registering online at https://registration.vtbigevent.org/signup/index/joingroup/code/33086-00148 by Mar 31. If you have any questions, contact Scarlet Soult at scarlet7@vt.edu.

24. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR VALIDATING DIETARY ASSESSMENT METHODS – 2nd posting
HNFE’s Dietary Assessment Laboratory is conducting a study to determine the validity of new dietary intake assessment methods (questionnaires and biomarkers). Must be 18 or older to participate. The study involves 3 visits (over 2-week period) to the VT campus. Each visit will be less than 60 minutes. The study will include one blood draw and two 24-hour urine collections. Participants will be compensated a total of $75 upon successful completion of all study visits. For more information contact Emily in the Dietary Assessment Laboratory at 540-231-4386 or eamyers@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Remaining Spring 2016 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Apr 5, 4:00-6:00 pm: Statistical Analysis Using R;
• Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:00-6:00 pm: Better Data Visualization in R Using the ggplot2 Package;
• Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;
• Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP.

Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

AFRICANA STUDIES PRELIM
Monday, Apr 4, 9:00-11:00am, 566 BcBryde
Doctoral student Devon Lee invites you to his prelim exam, open to the public, on Black: history, perspectives and disciplinary considerations for Africana Studies. Concepts such as Afrocentricity, paradigm, interdisciplinarity and diaspora will be the focus of exam questions. Feel free to bring questions and conversation on Black history, identity, sexual politics and activism. Contact Devon at devonlee@vt.edu with questions.

JEWISH CULTURAL MONTH CONNECT LUNCH
Monday, Apr 4, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
Attend this luncheon to celebrate Jewish culture on VT campus and enjoy a space where graduate students, faculty, staff and administrators can fellowship, network and connect with one another. Visit https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_eFg6HKObE6r9hB3 to register. Contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu with questions.

DISTILLING YOUR MESSAGE: 5 YEARS OF RESEARCH IN 30 SECONDS!
Monday, Apr 4, 1:00-2:30PM, GLC Room B
At this workshop you’ll be invited to think about how a quick response to "what do you do?" can convey your enthusiasm, engage people’s interest, and lead to more conversation. You will participate in exercises designed to help you distill years of work into a short and vivid summary. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3kJdMFs1tnHB189 if you are planning to attend. This event is part of the Graduate School’s spring professional development series.

VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Monday-Tuesday, Apr 4-5
SEC & ACC Schools work together to bring you this great opportunity to interact via chat sessions and meet employers recruiting talent across all majors and degrees!  Registration and participation are free! More details and registration available at https://www.careereco.com/events/secacc.

INTL FULBRIGHT OPPORTUNITIES INFO SESSIONS
Monday, Apr 4, 6:00–7:30pm, GLC Room C
Tuesday, Apr 5, 3:00–4:30pm, GLC room B
Wednesday, Apr 6, 9:00–10:30am, GLC room C
The Fulbright program offers US citizens funding opportunities for independent research/study projects, graduate degree enrollment, and English teaching assistantships in more than 130 countries. The application cycle opens Mar 31.  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. Info sessions will be held For more information, contact Betty Watts (bettyw@vt.edu; 231-7220).

GLC MOVIE NIGHT: INCEPTION
Monday, Apr 4, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Lounge
Come to the April Movie Night to watch "Inception"! The Graduate Fellows will be hosting the night of your dreams (HA!) with this amazing movie along with food, fun, and laughs. If you have any questions, email Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu.

MANAGING YOUR SCHOLARLY PUBLISHING CAREER
Tuesday, Apr 5, GLC 3:00-5:00pm, Room F
Learn the basics of scholarly research, writing and publishing. This workshop will cover a range of topics including data management, preparing a thesis or dissertation, getting published, and raising your scholarly profile. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cvWIsDL3DEIJAhv if you are planning to attend. Brought to you by VT Libraries, this event closes the Grad School’s spring professional development series.

HISPANIC/LATINO RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – register now to present and/or attend
Wednesday, Apr 6, 12:00pm-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The symposium features the research of Hispanic/Latino students and research topics that are related to Hispanic/Latino issues. Students, faculty, and staff attend and network around these topics and build a stronger sense of community. Refreshments available. Contact Dannette gomezds@vt.edu by Mar 30 if you’d like to present. Register to attend at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6llAMxdOQWNPhNb.

INVENTING YOUR FUTURE THROUGH YOUR PROFESSIONAL & PERSONAL BRAND
Wednesday, Apr 6, 6:00-7:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
Listen to and learn from experts in the fields of communications, marketing, and branding on how to develop your own brand and professional skills, no matter your field. For more information, visit www.career.vt.edu or call 540-231-6241.

GRAD STUDENT PLAY: SETNET
Thursday-Saturday, Apr 7-9, Theater 101
See an original play written and directed by MFA student Naphtali Leyland Fields. Setnet is the story of the fishermen on Wolf Island in remote Alaska, who are trying to survive another salmon season and each other. It is a raucous adventure play that includes a cappella singing. Bossman has been fishing on Wolf Island for 40 years, but nothing prepared him for the events of last summer. A fire burned down his cabin and his wife ran away. He, his daughter, and their greenhorn crew have to keep fishing through a season of bad luck, difficult weather, and ominous signs that maybe the misfortune they are encountering is not as accidental as it seems. Tickets are free but donations of non-perishable food items for the Blacksburg Food Pantry are encouraged. Reserve your tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/myevent?eid=22220921374.

GSA SPRING BEER AND WINE SOCIAL – register now!
Friday, Apr 8, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring beer and wine social, which will once again showcase local, national, and international beer and wine, while providing graduate students the opportunity to network among researchers and colleagues. Bring proper identification for those 21+ who wish to drink. Admission: $10 for general, $5 for GSA delegates, and $5 for non-drinking participants. This event is cash only and open to the public. Want to gain free admission? Volunteer to help with the event! If you are interested in volunteering, contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu. Registration is appreciated, though not required, at https://www.facebook.com/events/238875233115004/.

BRING YOUR KIDS TO SCHOOL DAY!
Friday, Apr 15, 8:00-11:00 various locations, 11:15-1:30 Grad School lawn to Drillfield
Help raise awareness of infant- and child-care needs on campus by taking your child(ren) to your office/lab/class or other work area (check with your department to ensure safe arrangements; departments have been invited to participate) in the morning, then join other participants on the Grad School lawn at 11:15 to march together to the Drillfield where the event will conclude in a family picnic and remark by Dr. Laura Sands. This event is sponsored by the Graduate School. Some festive supplies will be provided and participating children may leave their hand prints on a banner. Contact Marin Riegger at mriegger@vt.edu with any questions.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK 2016
Monday-Friday, Mar 21-15
The Graduate School salutes Virginia Tech’s outstanding graduate students, graduate advisors, and graduate and research faculty and staff for their contributions to quality graduate education. Check out the events of the week and attend what you can! http://graduateschool.vt.edu/GEW

3. INTERNATIONAL WEEK
Monday-Sunday, Mar 21-27
The Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) has partnered with VT’s international clubs to sponsor events and programs for this year’s International Week. Download the list of events at http://www.international.vt.edu/assets/docs/internationalweekposter.pdf.

4. GRAD STUDENT ART AND PHOTO CONTEST – all week
Vote on your favorite grad student art and photography displayed throughout the first floor of the GLC. Pick up voting sheets at the Welcome Desk. All members of the VT community may vote; grad student voters will receive a raffle ticket to win gift certificates to local restaurants and other great prizes.

5. REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW
Monday, Mar 21, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to format your electronic thesis/dissertation, use EndNote for citations, and what happens to your ETD after you submit it to the Graduate School. Bring your laptop and a pdf copy of your ETD.

6. THEOLOGY ON TAP: MORE THAN JUST HOLY SPIRITS
Monday, Mar 21, Sycamore Deli
Kick off event! From breweries to bible studies, small groups to socializing, how can you be radically faithful in the day to day? Don’t miss out on the Blacksburg area’s first Theology on Tap at Sycamore Deli – everything on the menu is $5! Talk begins at 7pm, arrive early for dinner and drinks, stay late for discussion. Chris Hitzelberger, Director of VT Catholic Campus Ministry will speak on how to integrate your faith with everyday life, followed by Q&A. For more information contact grad student Mary Claire Gibson (mcg226@vt.edu).

7. BREAKFAST SOCIAL AT NEWMAN LIBRARY – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Tuesday, Mar 22, 8:00-9:30am, Newman Library Multipurpose Room
Celebrate Graduate Education Week with Newman Library! Eat, relax, and meet dedicated librarians that can help with literature reviews, managing data, assessing scholarly impact, and using citation management software. Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_byi63kMBwDICV5r

8. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Mar 22, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

9. GRAD MOVIE NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: The Revenant– GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Tuesday, Mar 22, 7:00pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy 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.

10. ZUMBA
Tuesday, Mar 22, 7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Bring your dance moves, both good and bad, to this free workout class. Zumba features exotic rhythms set mostly to Latin and international beats.

11. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM & EXPO – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Wednesday, Mar 23, 9:00am-5:00pm, Keynote at 7:00pm, GLC
With over 190 poster, oral, panel, roundtable, and creative presentations representing more than 55 departments and programs, this is the largest GSA symposium to date. See the work of your fellow grads, and take part in 3 featured workshops offered by the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society, the Writing Center, and SafeZone. Then at 7pm attend the keynote address by Abhi Nemani, a writer, speaker, organizer, and technologist who most recently served as the first Chief Data Officer for the City of Los Angeles. More info on the presentations, keynote speaker, and workshop registration at https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/.

12. LINKED-IN LAB
Wednesday, Mar 23, 2:00-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby
Have a free professional headshot photo taken for your LinkedIn profile and learn about how you can use LinkedIn for your job search. Career Services staff will assist you with a review of your profile. Wear appropriate shirt/top for your photo.

13. LADIES’ NIGHT IN THE WEIGHT ROOM
Wednesday, Mar 23, 5:00-7:00pm, McComas Hall Small Weight Room
Free event for women to experience the weight room in a comfortable, educational, and open setting. Female personal trainers will be available to answer questions, guide workouts, and offer support. Stop by anytime. *Free shirt to first 100 people*

14. BROGA (MALE-ONLY YOGA) CLASS
Wednesday, Mar 23, 5:15-6:15pm, McComas Hall Fitness Studio B
Free event for men to enjoy an hour of flexibility and balance training led by male yoga instructors. *Free tank for attending*

15. THE HEART OF RESEARCH: A CONVERSATION FOR EMERGING SCHOLARS
Wednesday, Mar 23, 6:00-7:30pm, GLC Room G
What’s the heart of your research? Join this interdisciplinary dialogue about the relationship between who we are and what we study. A free dinner will be served, and all are welcome. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

16. TEACH-IN AGAINST HATE
Wednesday, Mar 23, 6:00pm, 3100 Torgersen
VT faculty will offer critical responses to Charles Murray’s controversial work and will facilitate and open forum for students to ask questions or comment. Posted on behalf of grad student Stephanie House-Niamke, stepha4@vt.edu

17. RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM KEYNOTE: ABHI NEMANI
Wednesday, Mar 23, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Abhi Nemani is a writer, speaker, organizer and technologist, who served as the first chief data officer for the city of Los Angeles.

18. GLC CAFÉ: GEW SPECIAL EDITION WITH GIFT RAFFLE
Thursday, Mar 24, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can. Gift raffle!

19. GRAD STUDENT GAME NIGHT
Thursday, Mar 24, 7:15-9:15pm, GLC Student Lounge
Join the GLC Fellows and other graduate students for a fun evening of games and snacks. Some games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite game(s) to share.

20. MOONLIGHT BOWLING
Thursday, Mar 24, 8:00-11:00pm, BreakZONE, Squires Student Center
Enjoy free Moonlight Bowling with your fellow graduate students at the BreakZONE. Food, games, and shoes will be provided, but bring some cash if you’d like to play billiards, foosball, or any of the other games in the center. If you have any questions, email Laura at lkkoehle@vt.edu; register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jONMVHooIFwvR3.

21. MINDFULNESS STRESS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES
Friday, Mar 25, 1:00-2:00pm, GLC Room B
Participate in an interactive introduction to mindfulness-based stress management techniques and enjoy light refreshments.  Sponsored by Cook Counseling Center. Register online at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e8Qen6uM5QWhxxb. Gift raffle!

22. BIG COOKOUT
Friday, Mar 25, 4:30-6:30pm, Graduate School Lawn and GLC Multipurpose Room
As is our tradition, Graduate Education Week will wrap with the annual favorite big cookout on the lawn. All graduate students and their families are invited to enjoy free food (vegetarian and meat options), music, and games. This year’s specials: bubble blowing, temporary tattoos, beach balls and more. Bring a blanket!

23. HOKIE WORLD GAMES FEATURING FENCING
Friday, Mar 25, 5:00-7:00pm, McComas Hall Basketball Courts
Free event that lets you try the internationally popular sport of fencing! Join the VT Fencing Team to learn more about the sport and try out some fencing skills!

24. NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED FOR CISO BOARD MEMBERSHIP – 1st posting
Nominations are now open for Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) Board Members! To learn more about becoming a board member of CISO, the requirements, and to submit a nomination, visit: https://goo.gl/fbgLaz; nominations will be collected from Mar 14 through Apr 3. If you have any questions, contact Suzie Baker at sjbaker@vt.edu. 

25. GRAD STUDENT ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS FOR 2016-17 – NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH MAR 24
If you are interested in leadership opportunities with the GSA, now is the time to nominate yourself or someone else for a position! Email Kasey Richardson, Admin Director (kasey@vt.edu) to do so electronically. Nominations received by 5pm 3/24 will appear on the ballot during the elections at the 4/28 meeting. Nominations received after deadline require approval of the assembly and must be written in. All graduate students are eligible to run for office. See position descriptions at http://tinyurl.com/gsa-elect. Posted on behalf of Stephanie Myrick and Daniel Wolozy, 2016 Elections Chairpersons.

26. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM OPENS FOR SPRING CYCLE – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open on Monday, Mar 14 and close on Sunday, Mar 27, 11:59PM. Apply during this period for funding to offset your costs for professional/conference travel between Jan 1–Jun 30, 2016. Final decisions will be emailed by April 30, 2016. If you have questions, contact Marie Stettler Kleine and Omchand Mahdu, GSA TFP Co-Chairs: gradtravelfund1516@vt.edu.

27. GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDING CYCLE NOW OPEN – 3rd posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program, which provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. PhD students can be awarded up to $1,000 and master’s students up to $750 to conduct their projects. The spring cycle for applications is Mar 21-Apr 1, 2016, with winners announced in early May.  Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Contact GRDP Chair Hannah Lane at hglane07@vt.edu with any questions.

28. GRADS GOT TALENT – SAVE THE DATE: APR 8 – 3rd posting
Grad students are invited to show off their talent(s)! The GLC Fellows are hosting a talent competition in early April. Mark your calendars, figure out your act, start practicing, and get ready for an awesome evening. To sign up to perform your talent, fill out the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1457624448088 For any questions, reach out to GLC Fellow Scarlet at scarlet7@vt.edu.

28 ½. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE GLC WEEKLY APRIL-1 SPECIAL EDITION!
Here is your opportunity to 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, midnight. Send to gibsonm@vt.edu, with subject line: You are a fool.

29. 2016-17 GRADUATE ASSISTANT OPENING IN NEWMAN LIBRARY – 1st posting
Newman Library is seeking one graduate assistant to work at the 2nd-floor Reference Assistance desk. The GA will work an average of 20 hours/week and receive a tuition waiver. Stipend will be determined by University Libraries. Hours determined upon hire. Must be able to work weekends and weeknights (until 12:00 midnight). Applications must include an application, current resume and cover letter. Submit to Lori Lee at ljlee@vt.edu by 5:00pm on Apr 15, 2016. Interviews will be scheduled in late April/early May.  Mandatory training of finalist will take place Aug 15-19, 2016.  A job description and application are online: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/students.

30. 2016-17 REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 1st posting
Newman Library is seeking 5-7 reference library assistants to work at the 2nd-floor Reference Assistance Desk. RLAs work an average of 8-12 hours per week at $15.00/hour. These wage positions do not include a tuition waiver. Hours will be determined upon hire. Must be able to work weekends and weeknights (until 12:00 midnight). Applications must include an application, current resume and cover letter. Submit to Lori Lee at ljlee@vt.edu by 5:00pm on Apr 15, 2016. Interviews will be scheduled in late April/early May. Mandatory training will take place August 15-19, 2016. A job description and application can be found here: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/students. 

31. GRAD INTERN POSITION OPENING – 1st posting
Advanced Research Computing (ARC) is seeking a grad intern to work with ARC scientists and corporate partner, Engility, to develop models and algorithms to support failure prediction on current High Performance Computing clusters within ARC. The successful candidate will work closely with research teams to understand different failure modes and derive statistical models and methods to predict failures. Duties will span from working with raw data to performing complex data analytics. Candidate will be responsible for: learning and using COTs analytic software as well as developing small applications to review data; provide project status updates and meeting pre-established deadlines. Must be self-starter and be able to work independently on projects and assignments. Internship to run Jun-Aug 2016. If interested, apply online at: https://careers-engility.icims.com/jobs/19041/high-performance-computing-%28hpc%29-researcher-intern/job.

32. THE BIG EVENT GRADUATE COMMUNITY TEAM
The Big Event on Saturday, Apr 9 is a student-run community service effort where everyone comes together to complete hundreds of community service projects throughout Blacksburg, Christiansburg and the New River Valley to give a big thanks to the local community that always supports our university. This year the graduate fellows are putting together a team just for graduate students. If you would like to spend the day volunteering and giving back to the local community while meeting new graduate students,  join the "GLC Graduate Community" team by registering online at https://registration.vtbigevent.org/signup/index/joingroup/code/33086-00148 by Mar 31. If you have any questions, contact Scarlet Soult at scarlet7@vt.edu.

33. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR VALIDATING DIETARY ASSESSMENT METHODS – 1st posting
HNFE’s Dietary Assessment Laboratory is conducting a study to determine the validity of new dietary intake assessment methods (questionnaires and biomarkers). Must be 18 or older to participate. The study involves 3 visits (over 2-week period) to the VT campus. Each visit will be less than 60 minutes. The study will include one blood draw and two 24-hour urine collections. Participants will be compensated a total of $75 upon successful completion of all study visits. For more information contact Emily in the Dietary Assessment Laboratory at 540-231-4386 or eamyers@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

UGANDA’S MELLOW MUSHROOM PERCENTAGE NIGHT
Monday, Mar 28, 5:00-9:00pm, Mellow Mushroom, Bburg
Come out to Mellow Mushroom and support the Uganda Project of Engineers Without Borders. All proceeds are going towards student travel this summer to work on solar panel systems at three site locations. You can dine in or get it to go, so no excuses; just tell them you’re participating in the EWB fundraiser! EWB-VT Uganda is a project that mainly focuses on solar power system installation in Central Uganda. Posted on behalf of grad student Tim Pierce, timomp13@vt.edu.

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Remaining Spring 2016 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Mar 29, 4:00-6:00 pm: Basics of R;
• Tuesday, Apr 5, 4:00-6:00 pm: Statistical Analysis Using R;
• Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:00-6:00 pm: Better Data Visualization in R Using the ggplot2 Package;
• Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;
• Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP.

Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

GRADUATE STUDENT WOMEN’S MONTH CONNECT LUNCH – Sign-up by 3/22!
Tuesday, Mar 29, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
Celebrate the achievements of women and female-identified individuals in our community and discuss our success and challenges on the Virginia Tech campus and in the New River Valley.  This lunch will be a space where graduate students, faculty, staff and administrators can fellowship, network, and connect with one another. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_81CuzSvBk4yWLCB by 5pm on Tuesday, Mar 22.  For questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT: TIPS FOR FINDING THE RIGHT ADVISOR AND MENTOR
Thursday, Mar 31, 12:15-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Facilitated by grad student ombudsperson Monique McKay, a panel of graduate students will discuss the ins and outs of finding the right advisor and mentor(s). Please register online at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/ (registration will open Monday afternoon) if you are planning to attend.

GRAPEVINE CONFERENCE: BEING BLACK IN WHITE SPACES
Thursday, Mar 31, 5:00pm, 335 Lavery Hall
The Grapevine Conference will host this student session with Dr. Stacey Pearson Wharton.  The program includes a light reception.  Please register at: http://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cAwX7fERni3yjch

CASCADES TRIP
Saturday, Apr 2, 10:00am-2:00pm, Pembroke, VA
Mark your calendars for a graduate student hike in early April. The GLC Fellows are planning to journey to the beautiful Cascades (pending good weather). In order to help organizers gauge interest and finalize the details of this event, fill out the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1457713639094. Transportation may be provided but will be first come, first served. If you have any questions, email Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu.

HISPANIC/LATINO RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – register now to present and/or attend
Wednesday, Apr 6, 12:00pm-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The symposium features the research of Hispanic/Latino students and research topics that are related to Hispanic/Latino issues. Students, faculty, and staff attend and network around these topics and build a stronger sense of community. Refreshments available. Contact Dannette gomezds@vt.edu by Mar 30 if you’d like to present. Register to attend at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6llAMxdOQWNPhNb.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/14/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30pm, Room A

2. OPEN EDUCATION WEEK 2016
Monday-Friday, Mar 14-18, Newman Library
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday events. Graduate students involved in teaching, the future professoriate, or those who want to share their original works with a wider audience without creating financial barriers for readers may be interested in attending the keynote, presentations and discussions. Keynote on Thursday, Mar 17, 12:30-1:45pm. More information and RSVP: http://www.lib.vt.edu/oer/oe-week/2016-oeweek.html.

3. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Mar 15, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

4. SHORT STATS COURSE FOR GRADS: COMPARING MEANS AND OTHER MEASURES OF LOCATION B/W TWO POPULATIONS BY SIGNIFICANCE TESTS & EFFECT SIZE
Tuesday, Mar 15, 4:00-6:00pm, 1100 Torg
Taught by Ting Guan, in this short course participants will compare averages and other measures of location using significance tests and effect size estimates. In classical hypothesis testing, significance tests assume the null hypothesis is true. Then the probability that data as extreme as or more extreme than those observed is calculated. If this probability is very low, then we reject the null hypothesis. The Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis provides these evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more.

 5. THE END OF GEOPOLITICS OF MIDDLE EAST OIL
Tuesday, Mar 15, 6:30-8:00pm, 146 Smyth Hall
Dr. Salehi-Isfahani, economics professor at Virginia Tech, will explore the economics and politics of oil in the Middle East and examine the future of the region based on the current oil situation. The event is sponsored by VT’s Economics Club, the Iranian Society, and Middle East Working Group. Posted on behalf of grad student Yousef Jalali.

6. UNDERSTANDING, NAVIGATING AND USING 4 EXISTING DATASETS (BLS, NCES, ASEE, Census) TO SUPPORT YOUR RESEARCH
Wednesday, Mar 16, 2:30-4:00pm, 207 Newman Library
Julia Ferrar will guest lecture and conduct a hands on session guiding you through 4 data bases. If you use or plan to use data from these data sources, you will find this session helpful. Seating is limited to the first 40 persons who register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1KNfwrlxNUCk8It.

7. RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTS: EARTH’S HEAT IS LEAKING OUT INTO THE OCEANS
Wednesday, Mar 16, 5:30-6:30pm, Museum, 2062 Derring
Earth has abundant heat that is dissipating ever since its formation. One mode of heat flow is through the oceans, especially at the spreading mid-ocean ridges. This talk will be about how measurements are made and what it means. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Lisa Whalen, lashley@vt.edu.

8. ARE YOU LINKED IN?
Wednesday, Mar 16, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room G
Learn how to use LinkedIn effectively to build your professional network and harness its potential as you map your career. Presented by Career Services as part of the Graduate School’s professional development series.

9. WOMEN’S ALLIANCE MEETING
Thursday, Mar 17, 12:00-1:00pm, 2400 North End Center
The Virginia Tech community is welcome to join the conversation about critical needs of women at Virginia Tech. This is a great opportunity to have your voice heard and be involved in creating change and a more inclusive environment. RSVP to clyles@vt.edu. 

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 17, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can.

 11. OUT AT WORK LGBTQ+ NETWORKING EVENT
Saturday, Mar 19, 4:00PM-6:00pm, Squires Brush Mountain A
Enjoy an afternoon of networking and hors d’oeuvres and listen to the keynote address by Christian Matheis, visiting assistant professor of Government and International Affairs.  This event connects students with professionals to explore topics related to LGBTQ+ issues in the workplace. Undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to attend. Please register in advance at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dcIJaocB48FT4wZ. The event is free; Business casual/professional attire requested.  Direct questions to Latanya Walker at latanya@vt.edu.

12. NOROOZ PERSIAN NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
Saturday, Mar 19, 7:00-11:00pm, Owens Banquet Hall
Norooz (Nowruz, also known as Persian new year) is celebrated on the first day of spring in different countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. Norooz means new day, which brings the sense of renewal along with rich customs. The VT Iranian Society invites all grad students to join an evening full of presentation, music, and dance. Dinner will be served buffet style 7 to 8 pm. More information at: http://www.campuslife.vt.edu/tickets/events_and_tickets/index.html. Posted on behalf of grad student Yousef Jalali.

13. SNEAK PEAK OF GRAD ED WEEK DESIGN – 2nd posting
See the final logo and slogan for this year’s Grad Ed Week t-shirts and preview the upcoming programs at https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC/ or http://graduateschool.vt.edu/GEW.

14. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM OPENS FOR SPRING CYCLE – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open on Monday, Mar 14 and close on Sunday, Mar 27, 11:59PM. Apply during this period for funding to offset your costs for professional/conference travel between Jan 1–Jun 30, 2016. Final decisions will be emailed by April 30, 2016. If you have questions, contact Marie Stettler Kleine and Omchand Mahdu, GSA TFP Co-Chairs: gradtravelfund1516@vt.edu.

15.  DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR PROPOSALS FOR GRAD ART COUNCIL’S ART SHOWCASE
Are you a graduate student with an interest in the arts? Do you make sculptures out of recyclables, play the banjo, or write comedic poetry? 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 Virginia Tech) invites you to participate in its First Annual Art Showcase! The showcase, to be held on Ap 28 (time and location TBA), will feature exciting live performances as well as a diverse exhibit of artwork to peruse. This curated event is free and open to the public and will be followed up with a gallery display running from Apr 28-May 2. Submit proposals by Mar 21 at http://goo.gl/forms/1ZdGAq0nzE. Contact Ana-Christina Acosta at acostaa@vt.edu with any questions.

16. JUMR MEMBER REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN – APPLY BY MAR 21
The Journal for Undergraduate Materials Research (see http://www.jumr.mse.vt.edu/) is a student-run online and print journal. The leadership is made up of mostly graduate students from all disciplines. Positions open to support the publication of Volume 6 include Layout Designer, Marketing and Finance, Staff Writers, Technical Editors and Support Staff positions. A listing of positions and descriptions along with a short application can be found at Organizational Structure for JUMR <https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1VNaoSI4Gu8U2JTMFpSbzlmVFE/view?usp=sharing>  and Volume 6 Application for JUMR https://kmcnabb.typeform.com/to/yXkabX. Posted on behalf of grad student Kelly Stinson-Bagby.

17. JOIN THE WELLNESS PROGRAM, FITEX!
Help VT continue as the fittest college in America! Fit-Ex is an 8-week, online-facilitated healthy eating and physical activity program. Serve as a team captain and recruit 5 other people to join your team and together make goals to improve your health.  The overall goal of the program is for teams to “walk” across Virginia.  15 minutes of physical activity is equivalent to 1 FitEx “mile.” Progress is tracked weekly and participants can see how they match up against other teams. Nine evidence-based weekly newsletters help provide tips, motivation, fun recipes, and at-home exercises.  Registration opens March 20, 2016. The program will run Apr 3-May 28, 2016; http://www.fit-ex.org. Posted on behalf of HNFE grad student Alicia Everette.

18. GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDING CYCLE TO OPEN SOON – 2nd posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program, which provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. PhD students can be awarded up to $1,000 and master’s students up to $750 to conduct their projects. The spring cycle for applications is Mar 21-Apr 1, 2016, with winners announced in early May.  Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Contact GRDP Chair Hannah Lane at hglane07@vt.edu with any questions.

19. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – deadline 3/16!
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 21-25) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.  Submission deadline: Wednesday, Mar 16, 2016.

20. GRADS GOT TALENT – SAVE THE DATE: APR 8 – 3rd posting
Grad students are invited to show off their talent(s)! The GLC Fellows are hosting a talent competition in early April. Mark your calendars, figure out your act, start practicing, and get ready for an awesome evening. To sign up to perform your talent, fill out the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1457624448088 For any questions, reach out to GLC Fellow Scarlet at scarlet7@vt.edu.

21. 2016-2017 GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 3rd posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2016-17 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, resume and letter of recommendation, and fully complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8j2LrGqsi4kv4cB. Information about cover letter requirements is detailed in the survey and the full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu.  Apply by midnight on Sunday, Mar 27, 2016. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Caraline Moholland at cmoholla@vt.edu  if you have questions.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT MENSTRUAL CYCLE AND FOOD CRAVINGS – 3rd posting
Participants between the ages of 18-30 years, female, not currently taking hormonal birth control, not pregnant, have self-reported “regular” menstrual cycles are currently being sought for an IRB approved study on the relationship between the menstrual cycle and food cravings using the phone app Clue. Participants will be entered to receive $20 Kroger gift card in compensation. To participate or for more information contact Meredith Young at mjyoung@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT VIDEO CONFERENCING – 3rd posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved study about video as a medium of communication, and specifically from the perspective of the feedback image. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. If you are interested, please contact grad student Shiwani Dewal for more information at shiwanid@vt.edu.

24. GRAD STUDENTS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BIG EVENT – 3rd posting
John Tedesco and Tristen Asrejadid, co-directors of Student Outreach for VT’s The Big Event, invite graduate students to participate. The Big Event is a student-run community service effort that has grown into the second largest event of its kind in the nation. This year the event will be on Apr 9, and organizers set out a goal to recruit 10,000 volunteers. This is a great way to get involved and have fun with other graduate students (or undergrads!) while also working to help the local Blacksburg community. To make a team, go to http://vtbigevent.org/volunteer and follow the steps to create a team. Once the team is set up, you can share the name of your team (or the provided access code) with the rest of your friends or fellow graduate students for them to join. Contact the organizers at studentoutreach@vtbigevent.org with any questions.

25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SCISSOR DESIGN STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a study on the "Impact of Different Scissor Designs on Physical Demands and Performance." The experiment involves two sessions (one training ~1 hr, and one data collection ~2 hrs), and participants will be compensated $10/hr. Requirements: 18 -35 years old, right-handed only, must have normal or corrected to normal vision, and no current or recent (past 1 year) musculoskeletal injuries or other health conditions. For further information and scheduling, contact 786-450-0509 or aanuolu@vt.edu.

26. SURVEY PARTICIPATION NEEDED FOR PILOT TO EASE PARKING AT VT – 3rd posting
Student researchers are trying to prototype a mobile application to ease the Commuter/Student parking on Virginia Tech campus. Please fill this 15 seconds survey to help with the process. Link: http://goo.gl/forms/vsVsqG41qf. For more information contact master’s student Namitha at snamitta@vt.edu.

 UPCOMING EVENTS:

CREATE YOUR OWN BEACHY TERRARIUM – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Monday, Mar 21, 2pm, Horticulture Gardens
Learn about the VT Horticulture program while you create an easy-to-care-for miniature garden for your home or office.  Registration is limited so sign-up soon! https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_29OLJKFZWbwMus5

THEOLOGY ON TAP: MORE THAN JUST HOLY SPIRITS
Monday, Mar 21, Sycamore Deli
Kick off event! From breweries to bible studies, small groups to socializing, how can you be radically faithful in the day to day? Don’t miss out on the Blacksburg area’s first Theology on Tap at Sycamore Deli – everything on the menu is $5! Talk begins at 7pm, arrive early for dinner and drinks, stay late for discussion. Chris Hitzelberger, Director of VT Catholic Campus Ministry will speak on how to integrate your faith with everyday life, followed by Q&A. For more information contact grad student Mary Claire Gibson (mcg226@vt.edu).

BREAKFAST SOCIAL AT NEWMAN LIBRARY – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Tuesday, Mar 22, 8:00-9:30am, Newman Library Multipurpose Room
Celebrate Graduate Education Week with Newman Library! Eat, relax, and meet dedicated librarians that can help with literature reviews, managing data, assessing scholarly impact, and using citation management software. Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_byi63kMBwDICV5r

 SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Spring 2016 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Mar 22, 4:00-6:00 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
• Tuesday, Mar 29, 4:00-6:00 pm: Basics of R;
• Tuesday, Apr 5, 4:00-6:00 pm: Statistical Analysis Using R;
• Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:00-6:00 pm: Better Data Visualization in R Using the ggplot2 Package;
• Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;
• Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP.
  Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

GRAD MOVIE NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: The Revenant– GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Tuesday, Mar 22, 7:00pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy 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.

VT BLACK BEAR RESEARCH CENTER TOUR – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Wednesday, Mar 23, 8:15 and 9:00am, Meet in GLC Lobby
Take a tour of the VT Black Bear Research Center and learn how data is taken from the
bears. A van will leave the GLC at 8am and 8:45am and take students to the center and will also bring them back to the GLC. The tours start at 8:15 and 9:00 and are expected to last 30 minutes. Space is limited to 8-10 people per tour and registration is required. Register for the 8:15am tour here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4T8Ijm0bhFk3nOB and the 9:00am tour here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8pklX4CCmGB2RFz

GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM & EXPO – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Wednesday, Mar 23, 9:00am-5:00pm, Keynote at 7:00pm, GLC
With over 190 poster, oral, panel, roundtable, and creative presentations representing more than 55 departments and programs, this is the largest GSA symposium to date. See the work of your fellow grads, and take part in 3 featured workshops offered by the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society, the Writing Center, and SafeZone. Then at 7pm attend the keynote address by Abhi Nemani, a writer, speaker, organizer, and technologist who most recently served as the first Chief Data Officer for the City of Los Angeles. More info on the presentations, keynote speaker, and workshop registration at https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/.

MOONLIGHT BOWLING – GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Thursday, Mar 24, 8:00-11:00pm, BreakZONE in Squires Student Center
Join fellow grad students for Moonlight Bowling to celebrate Graduate Education Week! Enjoy reserved lanes at the BreakZONE. Food, games, and shoes will be provided, but bring some cash if you’d like to play billiards, foosball, or any of the other games in the center. Register for the event at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jONMVHooIFwvR3. If you have any questions, email Laura Koehler at lkkoehle@vt.edu.

MINDFULNESS STRESS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES- GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK EVENT
Friday, Mar 25, 1:00pm, GLC Room B
Participate in an interactive introduction to mindfulness-based stress management techniques and enjoy light refreshments.  Sponsored by Cook Counseling Center.  There will be a gift raffle! Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_e8Qen6uM5QWhxxb

GRADUATE STUDENT WOMEN’S MONTH CONNECT LUNCH
Tuesday, Mar 29, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room G
Celebrate the achievements of women and female-identified individuals in our community and discuss our success and challenges on the Virginia Tech campus and in the New River Valley.  The Connect Lunch will be a space where graduate students, faculty, staff and administrators can fellowship, network, and connect with one another.  Registration will close at 5pm on Tuesday, March 22, 2016.  For questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu. To register, please visit
https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_81CuzSvBk4yWLCB.

BEING BLACK IN WHITE SPACES
Thursday, Mar 31, 5:00pm, 335 Lavery Hall
The Grapevine Conference will host this student session with Dr. Stacey Pearson Wharton.  The program includes a light reception.  Please register at: http://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cAwX7fERni3yjch

CASCADES TRIP
Saturday, Apr 2, 10:00am-2:00pm, Pembroke, VA
Mark your calendars for a graduate student hike in early April. The GLC Fellows are planning to journey to the beautiful Cascades (pending good weather). In order to help organizers gauge interest and finalize the details of this event, fill out the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1457713639094. Transportation may be provided but will be first come, first served. If you have any questions, email Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu.

 

 

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/7/16

• Career Services advising: on hiatus during spring break
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: on hiatus during spring break
• Writing assistance: on hiatus during spring break

2. DATA MANAGEMENT BOOTCAMP THIS WEEK – register now!
Faculty, graduate students, administrators, and staff interested in learning more about data management issues and best practices are invited to participate in a Data Management Bootcamp sponsored by seven Virginia institutions, Mar 9-10, 2016. This free collaborative event will feature experts from across the state and will provide opportunities for local, hands-on practical experience. Register now at https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/12xvvL6faceMT0ggvdihhXTzlvhKKM_lL8WA7S1k_kJc/viewform?c=0&w=1. For more info contact Andi Ogier at alop@vt.edu.

3. GAME NIGHT
Wednesday, Mar 9, 6:30-9:00pm, GLC Lobby
It is spring break, but for many grad students that just means more time for research and a better parking spot. But you are not alone! Attend a game night in the GLC Lobby area, hosted by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Renee Pietsch, rpietsch@vt.edu.

4. GLC CAFÉ: SPRING BREAK EDITION WITH HOME-MADE COOKIES
Thursday, Mar 10, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can. Celebrate spring break with home-made cookies (bring some of your favorites if you want to share!).

5. SPRING BREAK SUNDAES WITH LIVE MUSIC!
Friday, Mar 11, 2:00-3:30pm, Grad School lobby and lawn
You are not alone! Join others who are working through spring break and enjoy some ice cream sundaes and live music by your fellow grads. We bring the ice cream and toppings, you bring the music! If you have an instrument and willingness to share your talent, come and jam on the Grad School patio! Register online at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1457382328731.

6. SNEAK PEAK OF GRAD ED WEEK DESIGN – 1st posting
See the final logo and slogan for this year’s Grad Ed Week t-shirts and preview the upcoming programs at https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC/ or http://graduateschool.vt.edu/GEW.

7. LUNCH WITH PRESIDENT SANDS – APPLY BY MAR 11
The Graduate Representative to the Board of Visitors invites members of the graduate student community to have lunch with President Sands to engage in a conversation around graduate education and the graduate student experience. This is a unique opportunity to ask questions and get answers directly from VT leaders. If you are interested in attending a lunch on Thursday, Mar 17, complete this survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1447790241698 by Friday, Mar 11. If you have any questions, contact Mohammed Seyam at seyam@vt.edu.

8. GRAD RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDING CYCLE TO OPEN SOON – 1st posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program, which provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. PhD students can be awarded up to $1,000 and master’s students up to $750 to conduct their projects. The spring cycle for applications is Mar 21-Apr 1, 2016, with winners announced in early May.  Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Contact GRDP Chair Hannah Lane at hglane07@vt.edu with any questions.

9. GLOBAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS INVITED – 3rd posting
Virginia Tech’s Global Education Office is now accepting need-based scholarship applications for study abroad program participation in Summer and Fall semester 2016.  Visit www.globaleducation.vt.edu for more information on deadlines and the application process. 

10. 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 21-25) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.  Submission deadline: Wednesday, Mar 16, 2016.

11. BBURG MEN’S RUGBY CLUB LOOKING FOR PLAYERS – 2nd posting
The Blacksburg Men’s Rugby Club is looking for new and experienced players. The Blacksburg Rugby Football Club (Blacksburg RFC) is a rugby union club that primarily draws players from the Blacksburg/Christiansburg/Radford region and competes at the Men’s Division III club level within the Capital Rugby Union. Players range broadly in terms of playing experience, athletic background, age, and level of commitment, so all interested players are very welcome to participate. If you are interested in seeing if the club would be right for you, contact president@blacksburgrugby.com and someone will get back in touch with you. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Sebastien Corner, scorner@vt.edu.

12. GRADS GOT TALENT – SAVE THE DATE: APR 8 – 2nd posting
Grad students are invited to show off your talent(s)! The GLC Fellows are hosting a talent competition in early April. Mark your calendars, figure out your act, start practicing, and get ready for an awesome evening. For any questions, reach out to GLC Fellow Scarlet at scarlet7@vt.edu.

13. GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS FOR 2016-2017: INQUIRE NOW!
If you are interested in student leadership and service, professional preparation, and networking opportunities outside your discipline, consider running for office in the Graduate Student Assembly! The GSA is the student government organization that advocates for all 7000+ graduate and professional students and provides representation to university leadership, small grants funding, an annual competitive research symposium, and social programming. Previous experience with the GSA is not required, and any main campus graduate student is eligible to run for office. If interested, you must declare your candidacy in person at the 3/17/16 meeting. Elections will be held during the 4/28/16 mtg. Officers begin their terms on 6/1/16. For a list of Executive Board positions/descriptions, times/dates of information sessions with current Officers, and more, visit http://tinyurl.com/gsa-elect. Contact gsa@vt.edu with questions.

14. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER LISTSERV REGISTRATION – 3rd posting
The Campus Peace Corps Recruiter is currently updating the Returned Peace Corps listserv for the NRV. If you or anyone you know served in the Peace Corps and is living in the area, please have them fill out the following form so they will be invited to events in the area and might be able to serve on a panel to answer questions for new applicants: http://goo.gl/forms/wfm2xMdCKj or contact Cathie Bukowski, RPCV Honduras 2006-2009 at peacecorps@vt.edu.

15. 3-MONTH WAGE POSITION OPENINGS FOR NEWS ANALYSTS – 1st posting
News analysts are responsible for reading news articles and extracting information from them. The list of news articles along with the guidelines for information extraction will be provided, and analysts will be trained on how to record the extracted information. Articles will be in Russian, Turkish, Arabic, Chinese and English languages, focusing specifically on political and national news. Read the full job posting and application requirements at http://dac.cs.vt.edu/job-opening/3-month-wage-position-as-news-analyst/. Apply by Mar 11. Contact Parag at parang@cs.vt.edu with questions.

16. 2016-2017 GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 2nd posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2016-17 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, resume and letter of recommendation, and fully complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8j2LrGqsi4kv4cB. Information about cover letter requirements is detailed in the survey and the full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu.  Apply by midnight on Sunday, Mar 27, 2016. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Caraline Moholland at cmoholla@vt.edu  if you have questions.

17. TWO-YEAR GRA OPENING IN GENDER RESEARCH – 3rd posting
Applications are invited for a two-year Graduate Research Assistantship position beginning fall 2016 for a master’s student to support gender research in an international agricultural research project. The student must be accepted by the Graduate School and the Geography Department or the School of Public and International Affairs; must have background in social sciences; and be a US citizen. Application deadline: Apr 8. See details at: http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-listings/GraduateResearchAsst-WGD-JobListing2016.html.

18. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT MENSTRUAL CYCLE AND FOOD CRAVINGS – 2nd  posting
Participants between the ages of 18-30 years, female, not currently taking hormonal birth control, not pregnant, have self-reported “regular” menstrual cycles are currently being sought for an IRB approved study on the relationship between the menstrual cycle and food cravings using the phone app Clue. Participants will be entered to receive $20 Kroger gift card in compensation. To participate or for more information contact Meredith Young at mjyoung@vt.edu.

19. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT VIDEO CONFERENCING – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved study about video as a medium of communication, and specifically from the perspective of the feedback image. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. If you are interested, please contact grad student Shiwani Dewal for more information at shiwanid@vt.edu.

20. GRAD STUDENTS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BIG EVENT – 2nd posting
John Tedesco and Tristen Asrejadid, co-directors of Student Outreach for VT’s The Big Event, invite graduate students to participate. The Big Event is a student-run community service effort that has grown into the second largest event of its kind in the nation. This year the event will be on Apr 9, and organizers set out a goal to recruit 10,000 volunteers. This is a great way to get involved and have fun with other graduate students (or undergrads!) while also working to help the local Blacksburg community. To make a team, go to http://vtbigevent.org/volunteer and follow the steps to create a team. Once the team is set up, you can share the name of your team (or the provided access code) with the rest of your friends or fellow graduate students for them to join. Contact the organizers at studentoutreach@vtbigevent.org with any questions.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SCISSOR DESIGN STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a study on the "Impact of Different Scissor Designs on Physical Demands and Performance." The experiment involves two sessions (one training ~1 hr, and one data collection ~2 hrs), and participants will be compensated $10/hr. Requirements: 18 -35 years old, right-handed only, must have normal or corrected to normal vision, and no current or recent (past 1 year) musculoskeletal injuries or other health conditions. For further information and scheduling, contact 786-450-0509 or aanuolu@vt.edu.

22. SURVEY PARTICIPATION NEEDED FOR PILOT TO EASE PARKING AT VT – 2nd posting
Student researchers are trying to prototype a mobile application to ease the Commuter/Student parking on Virginia Tech campus. Please fill this 15 seconds survey to help with the process. Link: http://goo.gl/forms/vsVsqG41qf. For more information contact master’s student Namitha at snamitta@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT SOCIAL JUSTICE THINKING – 3rd posting
Graduate students who are self-proclaimed social justice thinkers are invited to share their insights for an important study. Participation consists of a one-hour, confidential interview at the location of your choice. To participate in this study, please contact Veronica van Montfrans at vanmonv@vt.edu. Participants must be 18 years or older.

24. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DIGITAL MEMORIALIZATION CONCEPT STUDY – 3rd  posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved survey for a study on the concept of digital memorialization. What happens to digital artifacts after the owners or the originators have passed away? How can one best make use of the Internet to preserve the memories of loved ones? Digital artifacts may include social networking profiles, e-mail exchanges, blog posts, photographs, or even online repositories of scholarly work. If interested, access the survey online: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8qUmQXks6SdQDMV.  Responses are completely confidential. Some questions might be personal in nature. You may choose to skip the questions that you are not comfortable with. The investigators for this project are Dr. Deborah Tatar (dtatar@cs.vt.edu) and Amna Rafiq (amna@vt.edu).

UPCOMING EVENTS:

OPEN EDUCATION WEEK 2016
Monday-Friday, Mar 14-18, Newman Library
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday events. Graduate students involved in teaching, the future professoriate, or those who want to share their original works with a wider audience without creating financial barriers for readers may be interested in attending the keynote, presentations and discussions. Keynote on Thursday, Mar 17, 12:30-1:45pm. More information and RSVP: http://www.lib.vt.edu/oer/oe-week/2016-oeweek.html.

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. This semester all courses will also be available via WebEx for distance attendees. Spring 2016 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Mar 15, 4:00-6:00 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
• Tuesday, Mar 22, 4:00-6:00 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
• Tuesday, Mar 29, 4:00-6:00 pm: Basics of R;
• Tuesday, Apr 5, 4:00-6:00 pm: Statistical Analysis Using R;
• Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:00-6:00 pm: Better Data Visualization in R Using the ggplot2 Package;
• Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;
• Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP.

 Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

UNDERSTANDING, NAVIGATING AND USING 4 EXISTING DATASETS (BLS, NCES, ASEE, Census) TO SUPPORT YOUR RESEARCH
Wednesday, Mar 16, 2:30-4:00pm, 207 Newman Library
Julia Ferrar will guest lecture and conduct a hands on session guiding you through 4 data bases. If you use or plan to use data from these data sources, you will find this session helpful. Seating is limited to the first 40 persons who register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1KNfwrlxNUCk8It.

ARE YOU LINKED IN?
Wednesday, Mar 16, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room G
Learn how to use LinkedIn effectively to build your professional network and harness its potential as you map your career. Presented by Career Services as part of the Graduate School’s professional development series.

WOMEN’S ALLIANCE MEETING
Thursday, Mar 17, 12:00-1:00pm, 2400 North End Center
The Virginia Tech community is welcome to join the conversation about critical needs of women at Virginia Tech. This is a great opportunity to have your voice heard and be involved in creating change and a more inclusive environment. RSVP to clyles@vt.edu. 

OUT AT WORK LGBTQ+ NETWORKING EVENT
Saturday, Mar 19, 4:00PM-6:00pm, Squires Brush Mountain A
Enjoy an afternoon of networking and hors d’oeuvres and listen to the keynote address by  Christian Matheis, visiting assistant professor of Government and International Affairs.  This event connects students with professionals to explore topics related to LGBTQ+ issues in the workplace. Undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to attend. Please register in advance at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_dcIJaocB48FT4wZ. The event is free; Business casual/professional attire requested.  Direct questions to Latanya Walker at latanya@vt.edu.

NORUUZ PERSIAN NEW YEAR CELEBRATION
Saturday, Mar 19, 7:00-11:00pm, Owens Banquet Hall
Norooz (Nowruz, also known as Persian new year) is celebrated on the first day of spring in different countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. Norooz means new day, which brings the sense of renewal along with rich customs. The VT Iranian Society invites all grad students to join an evening full of presentation, music, and dance. Dinner will be served buffet style 7 to 8 pm. More information at: http://www.campuslife.vt.edu/tickets/events_and_tickets/index.html. Posted on behalf of grad student Yousef Jalali.

 

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/25/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

 2. LGBTQ+ENGINEERING CONNECT LUNCH
Tuesday, Mar 1, 12:00pm, Kelly Hall’s Café X
Join for a catered lunch and free-form dialogue on the LGBTQ+ experience in the College of Engineering with Dean DePauw, Vice President and Dean for Graduate Education, and Dr. Pratt-Clarke, Vice Provost for Inclusion and Diversity and Vice President for Strategic Affairs. Come to connect, share, and learn more about engineering specific initiatives from out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (oSTEM) and Queer Grads, Professionals and Allies (QGPA). Discretion and privacy respected. Location has single occupancy restrooms. All undergrads, grads, faculty, and staff welcomed. Sponsored by the College of Engineering Diversity Committee. Questions about the event, dietary offerings, and/or accessibility? Email: oSTEM.vt@gmail.com. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/events/1514745195487367/.

3. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Mar 1, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth B in front of Au Bon Pain at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Contact grad student Haitham Elmarakeby (marakeby@vt.edu) for more information.

4. ADULTS WITH ADHD SUPPORT GROUP
First Tuesdays, Mar 1, 4:30-5:30pm, McComas Hall Rec Sports Classroom 198
Hokie Wellness is hosting a support group for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The group is held on the first Tuesday of the month. This group is available to VT undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty/staff.

5. FREE ANXIETY/OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays, Mar 1, Apr 5, May 3, 6:30-7:30pm, GLC Room A
The Psychological Services Center is providing a free support group with monthly meetings for those struggling with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30-7:30pm. This group is available for undergraduate and graduate students.  Call the Psychological Services Center at 540-231-6914 with any questions.

6. THESIS THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 8:30am-3:30pm
Need a quiet space to work on your thesis, dissertation, or course work? Gotta study for exams? Absolutely have to get that article out, like, yesterday? Thesis Thursday is your answer! This weekly gathering is for grad students who want to keep accountable to a regular work time and need a guaranteed quiet place to work. Meet each Thursday just a few blocks off campus at 107 Church Street – 2nd floor of the State Farm office (entrance on Church Street). Free coffee and wi-fi, plus multiple spots to sit and study alone or in groups. Stop in any time during study hours. Limited parking available. For more details, contact grad student Morgan Franke at fmorg14@vt.edu.

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 3, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, get caffeinated. Bring your own mug if you can. Celebrate the arrival of March with some special cookies this week!

8. GRADUATE ARTS COUNCIL PRESENTS: MIXER IN THE CUBE!
Thursday, Mar 3, 6:00-9:00pm, Moss Arts Center
Stop by the Moss Arts Center for some free food and music! The evening will be DJ’d by one of our very own, Ryan McHugh, spatialized over 134 loudspeakers in the Cube! Master’s students from various graduate programs will be there. Feel free to bring a friend. This is a great opportunity to explore the Cube, and also meet MFA colleagues and expand your network of friends and potential future collaborators.

9. KIDS NIGHTS OUT– NOTE TEMPORARY NEW LOCATION!
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30pm, Luther Memorial Church classroom, 600 Prices Fork Rd
If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO is held every Thursday throughout the semester when classes are in session.  Park in the lower parking lot (on Prices Fork Road) and go up the stairs. Enter the building through the door (with “Little Hokie Hangout” sign) at the top of the hill with the long access ramp. Children should wash their hands in the bathroom before entering the room. Until renovations are completed at the Women’s Center, KNO will meet at the new location.  For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

10. SPRING 2016 APPLICATION FOR DEGREE DEADLINE MAR 1
Spring 2016 graduates must electronically submit the Degree or Certificate Conferral Request online (in HokieSpa under Degree Menu) by Mar 1, 2016 for your name to appear in the Commencement Bulletin. PhD and EdD students must also include their dissertation title when submitting the Degree or Certificate Conferral Request for their name to appear in the bulletin. Without this title, your name will not be listed. The information entered electronically is used to order your diploma, so please ensure that the information is correct. A Degree or Certificate Conferral Request fee ($25.00) will be assessed to your student account after you submit your application for degree.

11. GSA GRADUATION CAP & GOWN RENTAL PROGRAM – closes Apr 8
Are you graduating with a master’s or doctoral degree this spring?  If yes, you might be eligible to borrow a free graduate cap and gown from the GSA! This program loans a limited number of graduation gowns and caps to graduate students participating in Spring 2016 graduation ceremonies. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA after the ceremonies. Interested students should fill out a survey at https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/special-programs/gsa-graduation-gown-rental-program/ by Friday, Apr 8 at 5pm (EST) to be entered into a lottery. Rental recipients will be notified no later than Apr 13. Please note that all gowns have been dry cleaned but caps will not be cleaned due to their internal material. Contact GSA Events and Special Programs Chair Kisha Gresham at kiwi@vt.edu with questions.

12. GLOBAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS INVITED – 2nd posting
Virginia Tech’s Global Education Office is now accepting need-based scholarship applications for study abroad program participation in Summer and Fall semester 2016.  Visit www.globaleducation.vt.edu for more information on deadlines and the application process. 

13. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – 2nd posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 21-25) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.  Submission deadline: Wednesday, Mar 16, 2016.

14. VOTE ON YOUR FAVORITE SLOGAN FOR GRAD ED WEEK 2016!
Vote on your favorite slogan or submit a new one at https://www.facebook.com/events/1677127289236409/. The slogan may appear on limited edition Graduate Education Week 2016 t-shirts and in other GEW advertisement materials.

15. BBURG MEN’S RUGBY CLUB LOOKING FOR PLAYERS – 1st posting
The Blacksburg Men’s Rugby Club is looking for new and experienced players. The Blacksburg Rugby Football Club (Blacksburg RFC) is a rugby union club that primarily draws players from the Blacksburg/Christiansburg/Radford region and competes at the Men’s Division III club level within the Capital Rugby Union. Players range broadly in terms of playing experience, athletic background, age, and level of commitment, so all interested players are very welcome to participate. If you are interested in seeing if the club would be right for you, contact president@blacksburgrugby.com and someone will get back in touch with you. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Sebastien Corner, scorner@vt.edu.

16. GRADS GOT TALENT – SAVE THE DATE: APR 8 – 1st posting
Grad students are invited to show off your talent(s)! The GLC Fellows are hosting a talent competition in early April. Mark your calendars, figure out your act, start practicing, and get ready for an awesome evening. For any questions, reach out to GLC Fellow Scarlet at scarlet7@vt.edu.

17. GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS FOR 2016-2017: INQUIRE NOW!
If you are interested in student leadership and service, professional preparation, and networking opportunities outside your discipline, consider running for office in the Graduate Student Assembly! The GSA is the student government organization that advocates for all 7000+ graduate and professional students and provides representation to university leadership, small grants funding, an annual competitive research symposium, and social programming. Previous experience with the GSA is not required, and any main campus graduate student is eligible to run for office. If interested, you must declare your candidacy in person at the 3/17/16 meeting. Elections will be held during the 4/28/16 mtg. Officers begin their terms on 6/1/16. For a list of Executive Board positions/descriptions, times/dates of information sessions with current Officers, and more, visit http://tinyurl.com/gsa-elect. Contact gsa@vt.edu with questions.

18. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER LISTSERV REGISTRATION – 2nd posting
The Campus Peace Corps Recruiter is currently updating the Returned Peace Corps listserv for the NRV. If you or anyone you know served in the Peace Corps and is living in the area, please have them fill out the following form so they will be invited to events in the area and might be able to serve on a panel to answer questions for new applicants: http://goo.gl/forms/wfm2xMdCKj or contact Cathie Bukowski, RPCV Honduras 2006-2009 at peacecorps@vt.edu.

19. PERFORMANCES INVITED FOR INTERNATIONAL STREET FAIR IN APR – 3rd posting
The performance sign up for the International Street Fair is now open! The Fair will be held on Sunday, Apr 17, 12:00-5:00pm. Please complete this online survey to sign up to perform:  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1TwSxhmjTprEpmt.

20. INVITATION TO ACROSSBORDERS@VT INTL LGBTQ+ GROUP – 3rd posting
AcrossBorders@VT is a group of international LGBTQ+ students/faculty/affiliates of Virginia Tech. The aim of the group is to provide a friendly space for the international LGBTQ+ population to discuss concerns about their sexuality and coming out, and support one another. Given that the international population comes from cultures different from the one(s) in the USA, the group aims to provide a more customized support to the international LGBTQ+ population. The group also ensures confidentiality and privacy of all members. If you are interested in attending meetings and/or events, or have questions, contact acrossborders.vt@gmail.com. Email us to join the secret Facebook group to connect with other international LGBTQ+ people.

21. 2016-2017 GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 1st posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2016-17 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, resume and letter of recommendation, and fully complete the following survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8j2LrGqsi4kv4cB. Information about cover letter requirements is detailed in the survey and the full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu.  Apply by midnight on Sunday, Mar 27, 2016. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Caraline Moholland at cmoholla@vt.edu  if you have questions.

22. TWO-YEAR GRA OPENING IN GENDER RESEARCH – 2nd posting
Applications are invited for a two-year Graduate Research Assistantship position beginning fall 2016 for a master’s student to support gender research in an international agricultural research project. The student must be accepted by the Graduate School and the Geography Department or the School of Public and International Affairs; must have background in social sciences; and be a US citizen. Application deadline: Apr 8. See details at: http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-listings/GraduateResearchAsst-WGD-JobListing2016.html.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT MENSTRUAL CYCLE AND FOOD CRAVINGS – 1st posting
Participants between the ages of 18-30 years, female, not currently taking hormonal birth control, not pregnant, have self-reported “regular” menstrual cycles are currently being sought for an IRB approved study on the relationship between the menstrual cycle and food cravings using the phone app Clue. Participants will be entered to receive $20 Kroger gift card in compensation. To participate or for more information contact Meredith Young at mjyoung@vt.edu.

24. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT VIDEO CONFERENCING – 1st posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved study about video as a medium of communication, and specifically from the perspective of the feedback image. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. If you are interested, please contact grad student Shiwani Dewal for more information at shiwanid@vt.edu.

25. GRAD STUDENTS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BIG EVENT – 1st posting
John Tedesco and Tristen Asrejadid, co-directors of Student Outreach for VT’s The Big Event, invite graduate students to participate. The Big Event is a student-run community service effort that has grown into the second largest event of its kind in the nation. This year the event will be on Apr 9, and organizers set out a goal to recruit 10,000 volunteers. This is a great way to get involved and have fun with other graduate students (or undergrads!) while also working to help the local Blacksburg community. To make a team, go to http://vtbigevent.org/volunteer and follow the steps to create a team. Once the team is set up, you can share the name of your team (or the provided access code) with the rest of your friends or fellow graduate students for them to join. Contact the organizers at studentoutreach@vtbigevent.org with any questions.

26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SCISSOR DESIGN STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a study on the "Impact of Different Scissor Designs on Physical Demands and Performance." The experiment involves two sessions (one training ~1 hr, and one data collection ~2 hrs), and participants will be compensated $10/hr. Requirements: 18 -35 years old, right-handed only, must have normal or corrected to normal vision, and no current or recent (past 1 year) musculoskeletal injuries or other health conditions. For further information and scheduling, contact 786-450-0509 or aanuolu@vt.edu.

27. SURVEY PARTICIPATION NEEDED FOR PILOT TO EASE PARKING AT VT – 1st posting
Student researchers are trying to prototype a mobile application to ease the Commuter/Student parking on Virginia Tech campus. Please fill this 15 seconds survey to help with the process. Link: http://goo.gl/forms/vsVsqG41qf. For more information contact master’s student Namitha at snamitta@vt.edu.

28. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT SOCIAL JUSTICE THINKING – 2nd  posting
Graduate students who are self-proclaimed social justice thinkers are invited to share their insights for an important study. Participation consists of a one-hour, confidential interview at the location of your choice. To participate in this study, please contact Veronica van Montfrans at vanmonv@vt.edu. Participants must be 18 years or older.

29. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DIGITAL MEMORIALIZATION CONCEPT STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved survey for a study on the concept of digital memorialization. What happens to digital artifacts after the owners or the originators have passed away? How can one best make use of the Internet to preserve the memories of loved ones? Digital artifacts may include social networking profiles, e-mail exchanges, blog posts, photographs, or even online repositories of scholarly work. If interested, access the survey online: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8qUmQXks6SdQDMV.  Responses are completely confidential. Some questions might be personal in nature. You may choose to skip the questions that you are not comfortable with. The investigators for this project are Dr. Deborah Tatar (dtatar@cs.vt.edu) and Amna Rafiq (amna@vt.edu).

30. VIOLINIST SOUGHT FOR GRAD STUDENT BAND – 3rd posting
A band made of a group of graduate students is looking for a violinist with experience with modern music. The band meets up every Thursday at 6:30pm and practices for a couple of hours. This band consists of a vocal, a drummer, a bass player and a key player; it does not adhere to any genre and members welcome all inputs as to what to jam next. Requirement: Must be able to meet every Thursday at 6:30pm; must have some experience with modern music; experience with improvisation is preferred; it would be even better if you have an electric violin. If interested, contact Ethan Smith, ethands@vt.edu.

31. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT ABOUT INVOLVEMENT IN STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS – 3rd posting
Would you like the chance to win a $25.00 gift card? Take this survey at http://tinyurl.com/Precareer for your chance to win!  A VT faculty member is seeking to know more about what activities you and other VT students choose to participate in.  In taking this survey you are helping with the extensive research of how your activities affect your life after college.  Any student in any major at VT can respond to the survey.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA – SPRING SCHEDULE
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. These two-hour courses teach practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more.
Spring 2016 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Mar 15, 4:00-6:00 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
• Tuesday, Mar 22, 4:00-6:00 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
• Tuesday, Mar 29, 4:00-6:00 pm: Basics of R;
• Tuesday, Apr 5, 4:00-6:00 pm: Statistical Analysis Using R;
• Tuesday, Apr 12, 4:00-6:00 pm: Better Data Visualization in R Using the ggplot2 Package;
• Tuesday, Apr 19, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Web Scraping in R;
• Tuesday, Apr 26, 4:00-6:00 pm: Introduction to Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) in JMP.

Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! Learn more at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

SOME SPRING BREAK EVENT FOR GRADS
One day next week, Mar 7-11, sometime between 8:00am-5:00, somewhere in or around the GLC
Next week is spring break, not that grad students will notice it much, other than for easier parking. But maybe you should take at least 30 minutes to an hour to relax and have fun with your grad student colleagues. What should the event be? Send your ideas and requests to Monika at gibsonm@vt.edu by Friday, Mar 4, and she will make something happen.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/25/16

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: ThF 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
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. LGBTQ+ RESTORATIVE SPACE WITH JORDAN HARRISON
Wednesdays, Feb 24, Mar 16, Mar 30, Apr 13, Apr 27, 4:00-5:00pm, Squires 140 Conference Room
These drop-in hours are presented by the Cook Counseling Center and the Intercultural Engagement Center.

3. GLC MOVIE NIGHT
Wednesday, Feb 24, 7:45-9:45 PM, GLC Room F
Need some time to unwind before midterms? Take a break and come watch the newest Disney classic, Inside Out! The Graduate Fellows will provide snacks to enjoy during the movie so get there early to grab some snacks and secure your seat! If you have any questions, email Scarlet Soult at scarlet7@vt.edu.

4. THESIS THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 8:30am-3:30pm
Need a quiet space to work on your thesis, dissertation, or course work? Gotta study for exams? Absolutely have to get that article out, like, yesterday? Thesis Thursday is your answer! This weekly gathering is for grad students who want to keep accountable to a regular work time and need a guaranteed quiet place to work. Meet each Thursday just a few blocks off campus at 107 Church Street – 2nd floor of the State Farm office (entrance on Church Street). Free coffee and wi-fi, plus multiple spots to sit and study alone or in groups. Stop in any time during study hours. Limited parking available. For more details, contact grad student Morgan Franke at fmorg14@vt.edu.

5. CAMEO ENGINEERING CAREER FAIR
Thursday, Feb 25, 10:00am-4:00pm, Squires Commonwealth Ballroom
Safran is recruiting software engineers at the Cameo Engineering Career Fair. For more info on the Career Fair visit http://cameovt.wix.com/cameo#!careerfair/cpfc. For more info on Safran employment opportunities, see http://usa.morpho.com/talent. Posted on behalf of grad student Heather Lyne.

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Feb 25, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, get caffeinated. Bring your own mug if you can.

7. KIDS NIGHTS OUT– NOTE TEMPORARY NEW LOCATION!
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30pm, Luther Memorial Church classroom, 600 Prices Fork Rd
If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO is held every Thursday throughout the semester when classes are in session.  Park in the lower parking lot (on Prices Fork Road) and go up the stairs. Enter the building through the door (with “Little Hokie Hangout” sign) at the top of the hill with the long access ramp. Children should wash their hands in the bathroom before entering the room. Until renovations are completed at the Women’s Center, KNO will meet at the new location.  For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

8. FAFSA HELP ON FRIDAYS
Friday, Feb 26, 3:00-7:00pm, Student Services Building
Students who need assistance with filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are invited to take advantage of University Scholarships and Financial Aid extended hours to file the FAFSA (open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents only). More information is also available online at www.finaid.vt.edu. 

9. NEW YOU IN THE NRV
Saturday, Feb 27, 12:00-3:00pm, Blacksburg Rec Ctr, 725 Patrick Henry Drive
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. invites you to their event that provides free (1) health screenings, including blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI; (2) fitness classes, including boot camp, Zumba and yoga; (3) smoothie demonstration; (4) treatment and consultation from certified and licensed massage therapist, chiropractor and acupuncturist; (5) health related giveaways! For more info contact bacdst@yahoo.com or visit www.bacdst13.org. Posted on behalf of BSE grad student Teneil Sivells.

10. ROTARACT GALA AND FUNDRAISER
Saturday, Feb 27, 12:00-4:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Win cash prizes at bingo (games begin at 1 and 2pm); stop by the raffle booth for a chance to win – final drawing at 3:30pm, $1 raffle tickets. Gift card auction!  Learn more about Rotaract at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/rotaractvt/about.

11. SPRING 2016 APPLICATION FOR DEGREE DEADLINE MAR 1
Spring 2016 graduates must electronically submit the Degree or Certificate Conferral Request online (in HokieSpa under Degree Menu) by Mar 1, 2016 for your name to appear in the Commencement Bulletin. PhD and EdD students must also include their dissertation title when submitting the Degree or Certificate Conferral Request for their name to appear in the bulletin. Without this title, your name will not be listed. The information entered electronically is used to order your diploma, so please ensure that the information is correct. A Degree or Certificate Conferral Request fee ($25.00) will be assessed to your student account after you submit your application for degree.

12. GLOBAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS INVITED – 1st posting
Virginia Tech’s Global Education Office is now accepting need-based scholarship applications for study abroad program participation in Summer and Fall semester 2016.  Visit www.globaleducation.vt.edu for more information on deadlines and the application process. 

13. 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 21-25) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.  Submission deadline: Wednesday, Mar 16, 2016.

14. VOTE ON YOUR FAVORITE SLOGAN FOR GRAD ED WEEK 2016!
Vote on your favorite slogan or submit a new one at https://www.facebook.com/events/1677127289236409/. The slogan may appear on limited edition Graduate Education Week 2016 t-shirts and in other GEW advertisement materials.

15. RETURNED PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER LISTSERV REGISTRATION
The Campus Peace Corps Recruiter is currently updating the Returned Peace Corps listserv for the NRV. If you or anyone you know served in the Peace Corps and is living in the area, please have them fill out the following form so they will be invited to events in the area and might be able to serve on a panel to answer questions for new applicants: http://goo.gl/forms/wfm2xMdCKj or contact Cathie Bukowski, RPCV Honduras 2006-2009 at peacecorps@vt.edu.

16. PERFORMANCES INVITED FOR INTERNATIONAL STREET FAIR IN APR – 2nd posting
The performance sign up for the International Street Fair is now open! The Fair will be held on Sunday, Apr 17, 12:00-5:00pm. Please complete this online survey to sign up to perform:  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_1TwSxhmjTprEpmt.

17. INVITATION TO ACROSSBORDERS@VT INTL LGBTQ+ GROUP – 2nd posting
AcrossBorders@VT is a group of international LGBTQ+ students/faculty/affiliates of Virginia Tech. The aim of the group is to provide a friendly space for the international LGBTQ+ population to discuss concerns about their sexuality and coming out, and support one another. Given that the international population comes from cultures different from the one(s) in the USA, the group aims to provide a more customized support to the international LGBTQ+ population. The group also ensures confidentiality and privacy of all members. If you are interested in attending meetings and/or events, or have questions, contact acrossborders.vt@gmail.com. Email us to join the secret Facebook group to connect with other international LGBTQ+ people.

18. CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR GRADUATE ART COUNCIL’S ART SHOWCASE – 3rd posting
Are you a graduate student with an interest in the arts? Do you make sculptures out of recyclables, play the banjo, or write comedic poetry? 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 Virginia Tech) invites you to participate in its First Annual Art Showcase! The showcase, to be held on Ap 28 (time and location TBA), will feature exciting live performances as well as a diverse exhibit of artwork to peruse. This curated event is free and open to the public and will be followed up with a gallery display running from Apr 28-May 2. Submit proposals by Mar 14 at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ua9GFDZ2U7Ft058WtO778PIZqJODsmnxXynkpdFqdVE/viewform?c=0&w=1. Contact Ana-Christina Acosta at acostaa@vt.edu with any questions.

19. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS INVITED – still 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 Engagement recognition.  If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website, http://graduateschool.vt.edu/gs/tge/cse. Applications are due Mar 14.  For more information, email Shelby Ward, shelby08@vt.edu.

20. TWO-YEAR GRA OPENING IN GENDER RESEARCH – 1st posting
Applications are invited for a two-year Graduate Research Assistantship position beginning fall 2016 for a master’s student to support gender research in an international agricultural research project. The student must be accepted by the Graduate School and the Geography Department or the School of Public and International Affairs; must have background in social sciences; and be a US citizen. Application deadline: Apr 8. See details at: http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-listings/GraduateResearchAsst-WGD-JobListing2016.html.

21. Don’t look for it here. 21 is under a pile of snow. Maybe it will be back next week if the snow piles finally melt?

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT SOCIAL JUSTICE THINKING – 1st posting
Graduate students who are self-proclaimed social justice thinkers are invited to share their insights for an important study. Participation consists of a one-hour, confidential interview at the location of your choice. To participate in this study, please contact Veronica van Montfrans at vanmonv@vt.edu. Participants must be 18 years or older.

23. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DIGITAL MEMORIALIZATION CONCEPT STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved survey for a study on the concept of digital memorialization. What happens to digital artifacts after the owners or the originators have passed away? How can one best make use of the Internet to preserve the memories of loved ones? Digital artifacts may include social networking profiles, e-mail exchanges, blog posts, photographs, or even online repositories of scholarly work. If interested, access the survey online: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8qUmQXks6SdQDMV.  Responses are completely confidential. Some questions might be personal in nature. You may choose to skip the questions that you are not comfortable with. The investigators for this project are Dr. Deborah Tatar (dtatar@cs.vt.edu) and Amna Rafiq (amna@vt.edu).

24. VIOLINIST SOUGHT FOR GRAD STUDENT BAND – 2nd posting
A band made of a group of graduate students is looking for a violinist with experience with modern music. The band meets up every Thursday at 6:30pm and practices for a couple of hours. This band consists of a vocal, a drummer, a bass player and a key player; it does not adhere to any genre and members welcome all inputs as to what to jam next. Requirement: Must be able to meet every Thursday at 6:30pm; must have some experience with modern music; experience with improvisation is preferred; it would be even better if you have an electric violin. If interested, contact Ethan Smith, ethands@vt.edu.

25. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT ABOUT INVOLVEMENT IN STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS – 2nd posting
Would you like the chance to win a $25.00 gift card? Take this survey at http://tinyurl.com/Precareer for your chance to win!  A VT faculty member is seeking to know more about what activities you and other VT students choose to participate in.  In taking this survey you are helping with the extensive research of how your activities affect your life after college.  Any student in any major at VT can respond to the survey.

26. GRADUATE TEACHING ASSISTANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY PARTICIPATION – 3rd posting
Current or past VT GTAs are sought to complete a 20-minute online survey about Autism Spectrum Disorders. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. Access survey here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8AkFupnszC4wZkF. For more information contact Tyler Hassenfeldt at thassen@vt.edu.

27. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH ON LANGUAGE TRENDS – 3rd posting
Participants ages 18 to 75, male or female, and native English speakers (international students whose first language is not English will not be considered) are currently being sought for an IRB approved study on how well general populations can identify and define current language trends and determine when this language is being used in a threatening manner. No prior knowledge of language trends is required. By clicking on the link and taking the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_esuRrqQKdNhhlid, you are consenting to use of your answers in a master’s thesis. If you have any questions, please contact Natalie Richoux at nchambe7@vt.edu

UPCOMING EVENTS:

LGBTQ+ENGINEERING CONNECT LUNCH
Tuesday, Mar 1, 12:00pm, Kelly Hall’s Café X
Join for a catered lunch and free-form dialogue on the LGBTQ+ experience in the College of Engineering with Dean DePauw, Vice President and Dean for Graduate Education, and Dr. Pratt-Clarke, Vice Provost for Inclusion and Diversity and Vice President for Strategic Affairs. Come to connect, share, and learn more about engineering specific initiatives from out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (oSTEM) and Queer Grads, Professionals and Allies (QGPA). Discretion and privacy respected. Location has single occupancy restrooms. All undergrads, grads, faculty, and staff welcomed. Sponsored by the College of Engineering Diversity Committee. Questions about the event, dietary offerings, and/or accessibility? Email: oSTEM.vt@gmail.com. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/events/1514745195487367/.

MINGLE LIKE YOU MEAN IT
Tuesday, Mar 1, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room B
This workshop will teach you the nuances of professional networking in informal but professional settings, such as large receptions, conferences, etc. Registration is required and seats are limited, so sign up online at  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_87frWjscurcySIl. Email Laura Koehler at lkkoehle@vt.edu if you have any questions. This event is part of the Graduate School’s Professional Development Series.

ADULTS WITH ADHD SUPPORT GROUP
First Tuesdays, Mar 1, 4:30-5:30pm, McComas Hall Rec Sports Classroom 198
Hokie Wellness is hosting a support group for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The group is held on the first Tuesday of the month. This group is available to VT undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty/staff.

GRADUATE STUDENT & ADVISOR SOCIAL
Tuesday, Mar 1, 5:00-6:30pm, University Club
Graduate students and their advisors are invited to this social, jointly hosted by the Graduate School and the University Club. Enjoy good conversation and network with colleagues over a glass of wine or beer and light refreshments. Please register online at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1455231081691. For information about this event contact Monika Gibson, gibsonm@vt.edu.

FREE ANXIETY/OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays, Mar 1, Apr 5, May 3, 6:30-7:30pm, GLC Room A
The Psychological Services Center is providing a free support group with monthly meetings for those struggling with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30-7:30pm. This group is available for undergraduate and graduate students.  Call the Psychological Services Center at 540-231-6914 with any questions.