Author: sjkass

Events
1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– Ask the Academy: GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesday and Wednesday, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. HOKIES MARCH AGAINST WHITE SUPREMACY
Monday, Nov 6, 5:00-6:15pm, in front of Burruss Hall
Grad student Brynne Farrell invites you to attend this event. For more information, you can go to the Facebook event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/740793496120843/

3. ASK THE ACADEMY: GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday & Wednesday, Nov 7 & Nov 8, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided; bring your own mug if you can.

4. MENTORING: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Tuesday, November 7, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
Are you a student looking for a mentor? Or do you already have one, but you have trouble communicating what you need?  Or are you a faculty member who wants to learn about being more approachable to advising and mentoring students?  Our panel of faculty and staff members will discuss their experiences with mentoring, and tips for making the mentorship process better. Sign-up here.

5. WRITING AN ABSTRACT
Tuesday, November 7, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Room C
Academic abstracts are not only a vital part of getting involved in conferences and journals, but also offer you an opportunity to describe and explain your work to broader audiences. At this writing workshop, we will explore the purpose, components, and organizational structure of academic abstracts. This workshop is best suited for students who are interested in composing an abstract about a current research project. If you would like detailed feedback on your writing, please bring a short draft of your research statement and your abstract to the workshop. Register here.

6. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Nov 8, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Meets every Wednesday. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

7. PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Nov 8, 12:00pm, GLC Room F.
This month, come listen to a pediatric sleep specialist and enjoy lunch together. RSVP is required, and will fill up fast, so don’t wait! As always, spouses and children are welcome.

8. US STUDENT FULBRIGHT INFO SESSIONS
Wednesday, November 8, GLC Room B: 1:00 – 2:00; 2:30 – 3:30; 4:00 – 5:00
These interactive workshops introduce participants to the Fulbright program that offers US citizens funding opportunities to research, study, or teach abroad in more than 140 countries. For more information or to make an individual advising appointment, contact Betty Anderson (betty.anderson@vt.edu)

9. GLC CAFÉ: WEDNESDAY EDITION
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and snacks.  Join your fellow graduate students and GLC staff.  Socialize and relax!   Bring your own mug if you can.

10. “AN INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS”
Thursday, Nov 9, 11:00am – 12:00pm, GLC Room F
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) presents its first IDR speaker spotlight lecture of this semester. Dr.  Stephanie DeLuca will be speaking about her research and the process of collaboration and crossing disciplinary bridges. Dr. DeLuca is a developmental psychologist who works to advance both adult and pediatric rehabilitation through the development of innovative neurorehabilitation treatment techniques.
 
11. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Nov 9, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room       
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and snacks.  Join your fellow graduate students and GLC staff.  Socialize and relax!   Bring your own mug if you can.

12. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
Thursday, Nov 9, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg
On a trial basis Kids’ Night Out (KNO) is going to try a system of preregistering. Each week there will be a link on the home page (www.womenscenter.vt.edu) where parents can sign kids up. The aim is to have the link posted to the website by Monday afternoon each week. There will a “Doodle Poll” with a limited number of spots and when that is full, additional children for that week will no longer be accepted. Because of this, the following is requested: 1) Please only register if you are sure you are going to be able to make it; 2) so that everyone can have a chance to utilize KNO, if you have been coming regularly, perhaps wait until later in the week to see if there are still spots available. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

13. THRIVING AS AN INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDENT
Friday, Nov 10, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room C
This seminar will provide opportunity to discuss strategies for adjusting to a new culture/educational system, managing academic and other demands and for developing productive relationship with your advisor. If interested, please sign up here.

14. INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: SUDAN
Friday, Nov 10, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by Aljaliya Al-Sudaniya (the Sudanease Student Organization). For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

15. DANCE OF NATIONS
Friday, Nov 10, 8:00pm, GLC Auditorium
As part of its annual event series, the Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) is organizing ‘Dance of the Nations’, an international dance night, where talented artist groups and individuals showcase dance performances from various countries across the world ranging from belly dancing to flamenco. The night will entail an hour long fusion of dance, culture and musical magic, blended with the talented artistry of international students at Virginia Tech. Grad student Jeena Sajimon, CISO Public Relations Officer, invites all graduate students to this event. The event is free and open to all. See https://www.facebook.com/VTCISO/ for regular updates about the performance or go to the event link https://www.facebook.com/events/244637702732138.

Administrative Announcements
16. NOMINATIONS AND APPLICATIONS FOR 2017-2018 DIVERSITY SCHOLARS INVITED – 1st posting
Diversity scholars are graduate students who specialize in and advocate for the awareness, knowledge, and skills associated with diversity and inclusion in the Graduate School and greater community. Diversity scholars propose, design, and implement projects that enhance the quality of life at Virginia Tech. Nominations are due by Friday, December 1st (self-nominations accepted). Applications are due by Friday, December 15th, and must include: 1) A recent copy of your C.V./Resume. 2) A brief proposal (overview/extended abstract). 3) A one-page, draft timeline of the steps required to carry out the project. Additional information and instructions available at the Application website: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eJ3zc4T21iUnORL. Contact Christian Matheis at matheisc@vt.edu for more info.

17. GSA "DR. RICH" CAP & GOWN LOTTERY – 1st posting
If you are graduating this fall and/or participating in commencement ceremonies, you are eligible to borrow a graduate cap and gown from the GSA for $10! Note that the $10 fee helps us to keep the program running. The "Dr. Rich" Cap & Gown Lottery loans a limited number of gowns and caps to grad students participating in Fall 2017 graduation ceremonies via a lottery. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA in acceptable condition for cleaning and use by future graduating students. The lottery will open on November 15th, and close on November 29th. Those chosen in the lottery will be notified no later than December 6th, and must still purchase their own hoods, tassels, and any other required regalia. All items are used, but gowns have been dry cleaned and steamed, and caps have been disinfected. Email GSA Director of Programs Brittany Boribong at boribong@vt.edu with questions.

18. EPORTFOLIO STUDENT SHOWCASE – 1st posting
As part of the ePortfolio initiative at Virginia Tech, the Libraries and its partners invite you to participate in the Fall 2017 Showcase. There will be 3 cash awards for graduate students: $500 for the 1st place, $250 for the second place, and $100 for the third place. Participating is pretty simple: Join the Portfolium network, add at least 5 samples of your work, and reflect on the learning in each one of these entries. For more information, visit eportfolios.vt.edu/showcase or email Miko Nino (mnino@vt.edu).

19. JOIN THE NANOTECHNOLOGY ENTREPRENEURSHIP CHALLENGE – 1st posting
NanoEarth, an NSF center on earth and environmental nanotechnology housed here at VT-ICTAS, is hosting a Nanotechnology Entrepreneurship Challenge. All VT students are eligible to enter to complete with a business idea that utilizes nanotechnology to tackle sustainability challenges in aras like public health, agriculture, clean water, renewable energy, and beyond. Winners will be awarded a $2,500 grant to help turn the business idea into reality. Proposals are due Dec 1. Check out the top of the NanoEarth news page for more details and application forms www.nanoearth.ictas.vt.edu/news.html. For more information please contact Dr. Matt Hull at mahull@vt.edu.

20. APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FOR $10,000 PHI KAPPA PHI DISSERTATION FELLOWSHIP – 1st posting
Writing your dissertation? Apply for a $10,000 Phi Kappa Phi #DissertationFellowship by Nov 30 at www.phikappaphi.org/dissertation. Ten fellowships of $10,000 each will be awarded in 2018. To be eligible, applicants must be an active Phi Kappa Phi member in the dissertation writing stage of doctoral study. All pre-dissertation requirements should be met by the November 30 deadline including approval of the dissertation proposal. The selection process for a dissertation fellowship examines how the fellowship will contribute to the completion of the dissertation, the significance of original research, and endorsement by the dissertation chair. Recipients will receive $10,000 to apply toward 12 months of dissertation writing. Click here, to start your application. For more information read the Dissertation Fellowship FAQs or download the Dissertation Fellowship fact sheet. If you have additional questions, please contact @Kelli Partin at kpartin@phikappaphi.org.

21. GRAD 5024 DATA MGMT. SKILLS COURSE OFFERED SPRING ’18 – 1st posting
Learn about the importance and benefits of data management including creating a data management plan. Covers data organization, policies, documentation, storage, ethics, access, security, analytical tools, grant requirements (proposal and post- award), proper attribution, archiving, other issues and topics related to data in scholarly communication. Pass/ Fail Only, 1 Credit Hour, Online Lecture.

22. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP) – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open for applications on November 1st at 12:00am, and will close on November 8th at 11:59PM. This program can provide partial support for professional or conference travel occurring between July 1st and December 31st, 2017. We will release the application guide in the coming weeks, so keep checking bit.ly/TFP-fall2017 for updates and information. If you have questions, send them to gsaTravelFund@gmail.com.

23. SEEKING SCHOLARLY ARTICLES FOR VT GRAD STUDENT-RUN JOURNAL – 2nd posting
Community Change, an online, peer-reviewed, graduate student-run journal at Virginia Tech that explores multiple approaches to democratic community development and change, is accepting submissions for its second issue. We solicit scholarly articles (4,000-6,000 words), book reviews (1,000-1,500 words), multimedia, and artwork that analyze responses to the evolving political and social landscape since the 2016 election. This might include, but is not limited to: 1) explorations of new initiatives, on-going activism, and community organizing and how they have changed their work since 2015 campaign and 2016 election; 2) historical movements and groundwork that have informed current responses; and 3) pieces reflecting on tactics and strategies employed to resist, counter, and educate about xenophobia, white supremacy, and other ideologies or political doctrines. The submission deadline is December 18, 2017. For more information and submission instructions, please visit www.communitychange.ipg.vt.edu.

24. GRDP APPLICATION REVIEW – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is looking for graduate student volunteers to review applications for the Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP). To review applications, you must be a graduate student, and you must be one that did not apply to the fall 2017 GRDP application cycle. Although we cannot compensate you with money, we do compensate with free food and eternal gratitude. To sign up, visit bit.ly/GRDP-fall2017-appreview.

25. LITTLE HOKIE(TM) HAND-ME-DOWN – 3rd posting
How to Donate: Donations will be accepted November 1-13 at the GLC Welcome Center (front desk) or at the VT Women’s Center (206 Washington St.) What to Donate: Gently used clothes, books, toys, bedding, medical supplies, school supplies, formula (unexpired), bathing & grooming supplies (unopened), strollers, car seats, baby gear, diapers, etc.  Shopping Days: Students come by the GLC Multi-Purpose room Nov 14 from 12:00-6:00pm and Staff come by the same location on Nov 15 from 8:00am-12:00pm. Bags are provided. For more information, click here or contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu

26. VT ENGAGE: 3-WEEK PERU SERVICE IMMERSION TRIP –3rd posting
Immerse yourself in a powerful learning and service experience that will take you from the Amazon rainforest focusing on environmental conservation and protection projects, to the high Andes to work on community development projects. Participants spend time together on reflecting on experiences and social issues encountered on the trip, and grapple with difficult questions while sharing perspectives on service, justice, and social change. Serve with and learn about two nonprofits, visit Incan sites, connect with new people and more. Estimated cost. $2,800 + airfare. A limited amount of need-based financial assistance is available. All applicants will be considered. Contact Eliza Wethey at elizaw8@vt.edu or 540-231-5853 with questions. Learn more, and apply by Dec 1, 2017 here.

27. COOKING CLASSES STILL AVAILABLE – SIGN UP SOON! – 3rd posting
There are two more Cooking Classes to sign up for and spots are still open! Classes are either $5 or $10 per person depending on the time and day. There is always plenty of food and everyone has the chance to cook and learn new recipes. The next classes are: “Multicultural Night” on Tuesday October 24 from 6:00-7:30pm OR Friday October 27th from 12:00-1:30pm. "I Can’t Believe It’s Vegan!" night is Nov 7 from 6:00-7:30pm OR Nov 10 from 12:00-1:30pm. For more information click here or email Shelly Rasnick at rasnicks@vt.edu.

28. CALL FOR PAPERS: DOING INTERDISCIPLINARITY – 3rd posting
The Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought (ASPECT) invites papers that engage a variety of contemporary issues about interdisciplinarity for its upcoming conference to be held March 22-24, 2018. Possible paper topics may include but are not limited to: the body and politics; critical approaches to technology and aesthetics; ecological and environmental issues; gender and sexuality; geopolitics and international relations; identity politics; marginalized knowledges; moral and political philosophy; new materialities; writing and history; postcolonialism; post-Marxism and ideology; race and politics; religion and secularity; minority studies; critical security studies; critical pedagogy; and violence and representation.
If interested, please go to one of the following websites, www.facebook.com/aspectvt or https://aspectconference.wordpress.com/, or email aspect@vt.edu.

Jobs:  None at this time

Volunteers and research participants sought
29. SHORT WALKING AND RUNNING STUDY – 1st posting
Male and female participants are needed for a study that requires two short (20-40 minutes) visits. Participants must be 18-30 years old and able to run at a 9 minute/mile pace for a short time. If you are interested, please email us at granata-la-g@vt.edu

30. 2 AND 4 MILE RUNNING STUDY – 1st posting
Female participants are needed for a study that requires two visits (less than 1 hour each). Participants must be 18-30 years old and able to complete a 4 mile outdoor run. If you are interested, please email us at granata-la-g@vt.edu.

31. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STUDY – 2nd posting
The 3DI group is seeking volunteers to participate in a research study with virtual reality (VR) technologies. Our team is exploring user interfaces that can help users to mark distant objects in a simulated scene (for VR). The project is supervised by Dr. Doug Bowman in Computer Science and will make use of state-of-the-art VR equipment. If you are interested in participating, please contact Yuan Li at yli92@vt.edu for more details.

32. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR DANCE OF NATIONS – 3rd posting
CISO (Council of International Student Organizations) is looking for volunteers to help with set-up and backstage help for Dance of Nations to be held on Nov 10. Volunteers will be assigned their duty on November 9th and there also will be free dinner on that day (9th). If interested sign-up at https://goo.gl/forms/YJbGxBRRarGsW0K43). Contact archanaa@vt.edu with any questions.

33. PARTICIPANTS AGES 7 – 17 YEARS NEEDED FOR PSYCHOLOGY STUDY –3rd posting
The Virginia Tech Clinical Psychology graduate program is looking for faculty or staff with children between the ages 7 – 17 years old to participate in a volunteer child assessment.  The program offers $30 to volunteers. The assessment consists of three sessions, each lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours during which a graduate student will administer cognitive, achievement, and behavioral assessments tests to your child. These assessments will be conducted at the Child Study Center (460 Turner St.) and supervised by Dr. Susan White (director of the Child Assessment Clinic) and an upper level graduate student. As this is not a formal psychological assessment or a research project, testing results from this training exercise are not considered valid and parents do not receive an assessment report at the end of their participation.
If you are interested, please email swaindm@vt.edu and provide contact information (email and phone number) and availability during October.  A graduate student will contact participants to schedule the sessions. 

Upcoming events:
GUAC TALK WITH THE DEAN
Monday, Nov 13, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room B
How’s your semester going? Do you have questions or comments about graduate life? If you answered yes — or if you answered no, but still want to attend a discussion about graduate life — join this month’s Guac Talk with Dean DePauw. There will be guacamole (of course), great conversation, and hopefully you! This event is brought to you by the Graduate Student Assembly.

GLC WELLNESS ROOM GRAND OPENING DAY OF EVENTS
Tuesday, Nov 14, 8:00am-4:00pm, GLC Wellness Room (formerly known as Room G)
Stop by the newly refurbished wellness room to participate in gentle yoga (8-9am), mindfulness exercises (9-10am), gratitude practices (10am-2pm), lunch refreshments (11am-1pm), mindful tea (2-3pm), or recharge yoga (3-4pm). Meet with representatives from health and wellness related officec during lunch and share your ideas for how graduate students may be best served by Rec Sports, Hokie Wellness, Schiffert, and Cook Counseling. Light refreshments served all day. Bring your Hokie Passport to swipe into the room. Registration is requested at https://graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/svs-at-the-glc/Wellness.html.

MINGLE LIKE YOU MEAN IT
Tuesday, November 14, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Room F
How are you at networking when it comes to large receptions, conferences or other professional events? Feel like you need to get better? Improve your mingling skills at this interactive session where you’ll practice introductions, opening lines and more with fellow graduate students. Sign-up here.

"THE LOST ART OF DISAGREEMENT: CIVIL DISCOURSE IN A CULTURE OF OUTRAGE"
Nov 15, 8-9:30pm, Colonial Hall, Squires Student Center
American society is deeply fractured.  Our current moment makes discussion of important social, political, and religious issues difficult and risky.  The temptation to label those with whom we disagree ("extremist", "racist", "unpatriotic", "hateful") makes conversation beyond our differences extremely challenging.  Is there a way to bridge these differences and have conversation across deep disagreement?  Dr. Christian Lundberg (UNC) and Dr. Christian Matheis (VT) will discuss how we can engage important issues with others, even those with whom we strongly disagree.  Grad student Daniel Chen invites you to come to this event ready to be challenged to step out of your comfort zone and engage across differences. Sponsored by the Bradley Study Center and Chi Alpha.

TAKE A BREAK(ZONE) WITH THE GLC FELLOWS
Thursday, November 16, 2017 BreakZone, 7:00 – 9:00pm
Join the GLC Fellows at the BreakZone on Thursday, November 16 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm for FREE bowling! This event will be a great way to relax and have some fun before the Thanksgiving holiday break. Come bowl as many or as few games as you would like. More information about the BreakZone, located in Squires Student Center, can be found here. If you are interested in attending, please fill out this survey before it closes on Tuesday, November 14 at 11:59pm. As this event is sure to be fun for all ages, please indicate if you plan to bring any non-student individuals (ie. a spouse, significant other, children, etc.). Contact Danielle Lewis at mdlewis4@vt.edu if you have any questions.

Events

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– Ask the Academy: GTA Walk-In Advising: TW, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. ASK THE ACADEMY: GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct 31 & Nov.1, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided; bring your own mug if you can.

3. BGSO GENERAL BODY MEETING
Tuesday, October 31, 2017 Black Cultural Center, 7:00 – 9:00pm
All treats, and no tricks!  Dinner and socializing will occur from 7:00 – 7:30pm, with the meeting to commence at 7:30pm.  The Black Graduate Student Organization is YOUR organization, and in order for it to thrive we need your, time, talents, feedback, and ideas.  Come out and be a part of something special!

4. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP)
Wednesday, Nov 1 at 12:00am – Wednesday, Nov 8 at 11:59pm
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open for applications on November 1st at 12:00am, and will close on November 8th at 11:59PM. This program can provide partial support for professional or conference travel occurring between July 1st and December 31st, 2017. We will release the application guide in the coming weeks, so keep checking bit.ly/TFP-fall2017 for updates and information. If you have questions, send them to gsaTravelFund@gmail.com.

5. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Nov 1, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Meets every Wednesday. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

6. GLC CAFÉ: CIDER EDITION
Thursday, Nov 2, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room       
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and snacks.  Fresh, hot cider will be served as well!   Join your fellow graduate students and GLC staff.  Socialize and relax!   Bring your own mug if you can.

7. EXPLORE, CREATE, CONNECT: INAUGURAL DIGITAL LITERACY SYMPOSIUM
Thursday, Nov 2, 9:30am-9:00pm, Newman Library Multipurpose Room
Graduate students are invited to explore digital literacy during this day-long symposium. Learn more about the program at https://lib.vt.edu/research-learning/digital-literacy.html. Registration required through NLI: http://bit.ly/2gadh7X . Contact Julia Feerrar (feerrar@vt.edu) with any questions.

8. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE (REGISTRATION NOW REQUIRED)
Thursday, Nov 2, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg
On a trial basis Kids’ Night Out (KNO) is going to try a system of preregistering. Each week there will be a link on the home page (www.womenscenter.vt.edu) where parents can sign kids up. The aim is to have the link posted to the website by Monday afternoon each week. There will a “Doodle Poll” with a limited number of spots and when that is full, additional children for that week will no longer be accepted. Because of this, the following is requested: 1) Please only register if you are sure you are going to be able to make it; 2) so that everyone can have a chance to utilize KNO, if you have been coming regularly, perhaps wait until later in the week to see if there are still spots available. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

9. THE 2ND ANNUAL NUTSHELL GAMES
Saturday, Nov 4, 4:15pm, Moss Arts Center, Anne and Ellen Fife Theater
All graduate students are invited to attend the Nutshell Games, a contest in which graduate students have a mere 90 seconds to explain their research, held in conjunction with Virginia Tech Science Festival. The Center for Communicating Science will award $500 prizes to the three graduate researchers who explain their work most clearly as determined by a panel of esteemed judges. Open to the public free of charge.

10. AN EVENING WITH CHRISTOPHER EMDIN: STEM EDUCATION & EMPOWERMENT FOR THE REST OF Y’ALL
Saturday, Nov 4, 7:00pm, Moss Arts Center, Anne and Ellen Fife Theatre
Professor, author, social critic, and science advocate Christopher Emdin discusses how to create and propagate a more effective and inclusive approach to STEM education that will increase student engagement and ignite their creativity during this free talk presented in conjunction with the Virginia Tech Science Festival.

Administrative Announcements

11. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – DEADLINE EXTENDED
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Fall Open House (Oct 28) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. To learn more and for the link to submission go to https://graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/glc-art-and-photo-contest.html (link has been updated).  Submission deadline: Sunday, Nov 5, 2017.

12. SEEKING SCHOLARLY ARTICLES FOR GRAD STUDENT-RUN JOURNAL AT VT – 1st posting
Community Change, an online, peer-reviewed, graduate student-run journal at Virginia Tech that explores multiple approaches to democratic community development and change, is accepting submissions for its second issue. We solicit scholarly articles (4,000-6,000 words), book reviews (1,000-1,500 words), multimedia, and artwork that analyze responses to the evolving political and social landscape since the 2016 election. This might include, but is not limited to: 1) explorations of new initiatives, on-going activism, and community organizing and how they have changed their work since 2015 campaign and 2016 election; 2) historical movements and groundwork that have informed current responses; and 3) pieces reflecting on tactics and strategies employed to resist, counter, and educate about xenophobia, white supremacy, and other ideologies or political doctrines. The submission deadline is December 18, 2017. For more information and submission instructions, please visit www.communitychange.ipg.vt.edu.

13. GRDP APPLICATION REVIEW – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is looking for graduate student volunteers to review applications for the Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP). To review applications, you must be a graduate student, and you must be one that did not apply to the fall 2017 GRDP application cycle. Although we cannot compensate you with money, we do compensate with free food and eternal gratitude. To sign up, visit bit.ly/GRDP-fall2017-appreview.

14. VMCVM’S FIRST INTERNATIONAL ONE HEALTH DAY COMPETITION – 2nd posting
Are you a fan of free food? Free Visa gift cards? Interested in One Health and want something to spice up your resume? The first International One Health Day Competiton will be help on Saturday, Nov 4 from 10:00am-3:00pm at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Organized by SAVMA Chapter, the Public Health Association, and the BMVS GSA, teams of four students will develop solutions to several different outbreak scenarios. Judges will determine which team has the best solution for each outbreak scenario, and prizes (including Visa gift cards) will be awarded to the top two teams. Each team must have one DVM student, MPH student, and PhD or MS student. Sign up individually and be added to a team. Partial team (2-3 people) or a full team (4 people) also accepted. Please fill out the survey to sign-up if interested in competing:  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5aTq8Xs1LvcEB8N, and email scavma@vt.edu with any questions. Team Sign-up Deadline Extended: October 30th at 5:00pm.

15. LITTLE HOKIE(TM) HAND-ME-DOWN – 2nd posting
How to Donate: Donations will be accepted November 1-13 at the GLC Welcome Center (front desk) or at the VT Women’s Center (206 Washington St.) What to Donate: Gently used clothes, books, toys, bedding, medical supplies, school supplies, formula (unexpired), bathing & grooming supplies (unopened), strollers, car seats, baby gear, diapers, etc.  Shopping Days: Students come by the GLC Multi-Purpose room Nov 14 from 12:00-6:00pm and Staff come by the same location on Nov 15 from 8:00am-12:00pm. Bags are provided. For more information, click here or contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu

16. VT ENGAGE: 3-WEEK PERU SERVICE IMMERSION TRIP – 2nd posting
Immerse yourself in a powerful learning and service experience that will take you from the Amazon rainforest focusing on environmental conservation and protection projects, to the high Andes to work on community development projects. Participants spend time together on reflecting on experiences and social issues encountered on the trip, and grapple with difficult questions while sharing perspectives on service, justice, and social change. Serve with and learn about two nonprofits, visit Incan sites, connect with new people and more. Estimated cost. $2,800 + airfare. A limited amount of need-based financial assistance is available. All applicants will be considered. Contact Eliza Wethey at elizaw8@vt.edu or 540-231-5853 with questions. Learn more, and apply by Dec 1, 2017 here.

17. COOKING CLASSES STILL AVAILABLE – SIGN UP SOON! – 2nd posting
There are two more Cooking Classes to sign up for and spots are still open! Classes are either $5 or $10 per person depending on the time and day. There is always plenty of food and everyone has the chance to cook and learn new recipes. The next classes are: “Multicultural Night” on Tuesday October 24 from 6:00-7:30pm OR Friday October 27th from 12:00-1:30pm. "I Can’t Believe It’s Vegan!" night is Nov 7 from 6:00-7:30pm OR Nov 10 from 12:00-1:30pm. For more information click here or email Shelly Rasnick at rasnicks@vt.edu.

18. CALL FOR PAPERS: DOING INTERDISCIPLINARITY – 2nd posting
The Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought (ASPECT) invites papers that engage a variety of contemporary issues about interdisciplinarity for its upcoming conference to be held March 22-24, 2018. Possible paper topics may include but are not limited to: the body and politics; critical approaches to technology and aesthetics; ecological and environmental issues; gender and sexuality; geopolitics and international relations; identity politics; marginalized knowledges; moral and political philosophy; new materialities; writing and history; postcolonialism; post-Marxism and ideology; race and politics; religion and secularity; minority studies; critical security studies; critical pedagogy; and violence and representation.
If interested, please go to one of the following websites, www.facebook.com/aspectvt or https://aspectconference.wordpress.com/, or email aspect@vt.edu.

19. INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY SEEKS NEW MEMBERS – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society is recruiting new members! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet other students doing interdisciplinary research and support interdisciplinarity on campus. If your research is interdisciplinary please check out our requirements and application procedures at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/membership/ or email Jessie at mjessie1@vt.edu with any questions. Deadline Nov 15.

Jobs: 
20. WEB-BASED VISUALIZATION AND REAL-TIME DATABASE PROGRAMMER –2nd posting
The DSV lab is currently looking for an experienced VT graduate/undergraduate student to help build modules or APIs for the Web-based visualization and a real-time database. General requirements for applicants include: experience with Python or C++; experience with Web based languages: HTML, PHP, Javascript, etc.; knowledge of designing and structuring API for visualization; web development experiences; This is a 10 hr/wk wage position and starts Nov 2017. Depending on performance, the job may be extended for the next semester. If interested, send your resume to Mr. Xiaoyu Chen at xiaoyuch@vt.edu. Visit the  DSV website for more info: https://sites.google.com/a/vt.edu/ran-jin/about

Volunteers and research participants sought

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STUDY – 1st posting
The 3DI group is seeking volunteers to participate in a research study with virtual reality (VR) technologies. Our team is exploring user interfaces that can help users to mark distant objects in a simulated scene (for VR). The project is supervised by Dr. Doug Bowman in Computer Science and will make use of state-of-the-art VR equipment. If you are interested in participating, please contact Yuan Li at yli92@vt.edu for more details.

22. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR DANCE OF NATIONS –2nd posting
CISO (Council of International Student Organizations) is looking for volunteers to help with set-up and backstage help for Dance of Nations to be held on Nov 10. Volunteers will be assigned their duty on November 9th and there also will be free dinner on that day (9th). If interested sign-up at https://goo.gl/forms/YJbGxBRRarGsW0K43). Contact archanaa@vt.edu with any questions.

23. PARTICIPANTS AGES 7 – 17 YEARS NEEDED FOR PSYCHOLOGY STUDY –2nd posting
The Virginia Tech Clinical Psychology graduate program is looking for faculty or staff with children between the ages 7 – 17 years old to participate in a volunteer child assessment.  The program offers $30 to volunteers. The assessment consists of three sessions, each lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours during which a graduate student will administer cognitive, achievement, and behavioral assessments tests to your child. These assessments will be conducted at the Child Study Center (460 Turner St.) and supervised by Dr. Susan White (director of the Child Assessment Clinic) and an upper level graduate student. As this is not a formal psychological assessment or a research project, testing results from this training exercise are not considered valid and parents do not receive an assessment report at the end of their participation.
If you are interested, please email swaindm@vt.edu and provide contact information (email and phone number) and availability during October.  A graduate student will contact participants to schedule the sessions. 

24. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: TREATMENT OF FEAR OF DOGS IN 4-7 YR OLD CHILDREN – 3rd posting
A new study at the Virginia Tech Child Study is looking for interested participants in a treatment research study for 4-7 year old children with fears of dogs that are interfering in their lives. Parents will be provided with a book which has been designed to assist young children in becoming more comfortable around dogs. Parents will meet with a clinician who will teach them how to read the book with their child and do activities at home to improve their child’s fear. If the child’s fear level remains high, parents will be offered the opportunity to come in to the clinic for additional treatment. Treatment is offered at no cost and families will be compensated for completing pre-treatment and follow-up assessment sessions. If you are interested in participating in this study, please call the Child Study Center at 540-231-8276 or e-mail childstudycenter@gmail.com for further information.

Upcoming events:

MENTORING: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Tuesday, November 7, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
Are you a student looking for a mentor? Or do you already have one, but you have trouble communicating what you need?  Or are you a faculty member who wants to learn about being more approachable to advising and mentoring students?  Our panel of faculty and staff members will discuss their experiences with mentoring, and tips for making the mentorship process better. Sign-up here.

WRITING AN ABSTRACT
Tuesday, November 7, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Room C
Academic abstracts are not only a vital part of getting involved in conferences and journals, but also offer you an opportunity to describe and explain your work to broader audiences. At this writing workshop, we will explore the purpose, components, and organizational structure of academic abstracts. This workshop is best suited for students who are interested in composing an abstract about a current research project. If you would like detailed feedback on your writing, please bring a short draft of your research statement and your abstract to the workshop. Register here.

US STUDENT FULBRIGHT INFO SESSIONS
Wednesday, November 8, GLC Room B: 1:00 – 2:00; 2:30 – 3:30; 4:00 – 5:00
These interactive workshops introduce participants to the Fulbright program that offers US citizens funding opportunities to research, study, or teach abroad in more than 140 countries. For more information or to make an individual advising appointment, contact Betty Anderson (betty.anderson@vt.edu)

THRIVING AS AN INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDENT
Friday, Nov 10, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room C
This seminar will provide opportunity to discuss strategies for adjusting to a new culture/educational system, managing academic and other demands and for developing productive relationship with your advisor. If interested, please sign up here.

INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: SUDAN
Friday, Nov 10, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by Aljaliya Al-Sudaniya (the Sudanease Student Organization). For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

DANCE OF NATIONS
Friday, Nov 10, 8:00pm, GLC Auditorium
As part of its annual event series, the Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) is organizing ‘Dance of the Nations’, an international dance night, where talented artist groups and individuals showcase dance performances from various countries across the world ranging from belly dancing to flamenco. The night will entail an hour long fusion of dance, culture and musical magic, blended with the talented artistry of international students at Virginia Tech. Grad student Jeena Sajimon, CISO Public Relations Officer, invites all graduate students to this event. The event is free and open to all. See https://www.facebook.com/VTCISO/ for regular updates about the performance or go to the event link https://www.facebook.com/events/244637702732138.

GUAC TALK WITH THE DEAN
Monday, Nov 13, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room B
How’s your semester going? Do you have questions or comments about graduate life? If you answered yes — or if you answered no, but still want to attend a discussion about graduate life — join this month’s Guac Talk with Dean DePauw. There will be guacamole (of course), great conversation, and hopefully you! This event is brought to you by the Graduate Student Assembly.

MINGLE LIKE YOU MEAN IT
Tuesday, November 14, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Room F
How are you at networking when it comes to large receptions, conferences or other professional events? Feel like you need to get better? Improve your mingling skills at this interactive session where you’ll practice introductions, opening lines and more with fellow graduate students. Sign-up here.

Events

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– Ask the Academy: GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesday and Wednesday, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. WORKING IN INTERNATIONAL CONTEXTS: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Monday, Oct 23, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room F
Interested in learning about to working abroad or in international/diverse contexts, with international colleagues and populations?  The panel presenters will discuss intercultural communication, their experiences of conducting research and working abroad, and how students can learn to be open to different ways of working in the world. Register here.  

3. ASK THE ACADEMY: GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct 17 & 18, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided; bring your own mug if you can.

4. “CLEAN PLATE CLUB?: COMBATING FOOD WASTE IN AMERICA”
Tuesday, Oct 24, 4:00-5:15pm, Multipurpose Room, Newman Library
Up to 40 percent of all edible food is wasted in the United States. Food waste has recently gained traction in social media, and within the last couple years, many initiatives have been created to combat this extensive problem. The talk will be led by Susan Chen, recipient of the 2017 Janel L. Cameron Scholarship. Susan Chen is currently a graduate student in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise and is researching food waste behaviors in children. Join this conversation as it explores the past and present issues around food waste and explores solutions to prevent this in the future.

5. USING BODY LANGUAGE TO COMMUNICATE YOUR RESEARCH
Tuesday, Oct 24, 4:30-6:00pm, GLC Room F
The way research and work is communicated is just as important as the information itself. This session will cover basic tips and strategies for learning open and clear body language that supports, not distracts from, communicating your research. Register here.

6. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Oct 25, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Meets every Wednesday. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

7. GLC CAFÉ: WEDNESDAY EDITION
2nd and 4th Wednesdays, starting Oct 25, 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room
The Wednesday café edition is in addition to, not instead of, GLC Café Thursdays. Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

8. HBCU ALUMNI CONNECT DINNER
Wednesday, Oct 25th, 6:00pm-8:00pm, Graduate Life Center, Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for dinner and connect with fellow HBCU alumni, faculty, staff and students while enjoying some free food! Please RSVP through the link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2470SHlRrX4IimV. If you have any questions, contact Luisa Burgos at luisab93@vt.edu.

9. NORMALIZING DISSENT
Wednesday, October 25 at 6:30pm in Randolph Room 129
Guest speaker Sarah Haider will discuss the ways in which media and dishonesty around Islam affects liberal progress, the rights of Muslims, and the broader public dialogue. Check out the eventbrite page (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/islam-narratives-and-media-bias-tickets-38926829194) or Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/events/366668163793041/?active_tab=about#) for more information. This event is organized by the Freethinkers, an organization of undergrad and graduate students at Virginia Tech, and the Ex-Muslims of North America.

10.TEACHING IN STEM DISCIPLINES: OPEN SOURCE METHODS
Thursday, Oct 26th, 11:00am–12:30pm, Library 1st Floor Multipurpose Room
Dr. Lorena Barba, Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at George Washington University will discuss application of open source philosophy to teaching and learning. Faculty and students in STEM disciplines are typically familiar with open source philosophy and rationale as applied to software. However, what could happen if the same open source philosophy was applied to teaching processes and learning tools? This presentation and discussion by Dr. Barba explores these questions. Dr. Barba’s visit is part of the Destination Areas Global Speaker Series funded through a Beyond Boundaries Grant between the Pamplin College of Business and University Libraries, in cooperation with the College of Engineering. More information/NLI credit: https://app.nli.tlos.vt.edu/#?offering=6071

11. GLC CAFÉ: HALLOWEEN EDITION
Thursday, Oct 26, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room       
Enjoy free coffee, tea, cookies and, of course, Halloween candy in the company of fellow ghouls, grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can. Costumes are optional, but there will be prizes.

12. FREE FIELD TRIP TO SEE DR. BELL HOOKS AT HOLLINS UNIVERSITY
Thursday, Oct 26, Bus will depart Squires at 4pm
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives on a short field trip to go see African American activist, educator and writer, Dr. Bell Hooks.  See link below if you want to read more about her.  http://www.notablebiographies.com/He-Ho/Hooks-Bell.html. Bus will return to campus later in the evening following the talk and book-signing. Spots are limited, if interested in attending contact Luisa Burgos at luisab93@vt.edu.

13. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE (REGISTRATION NOW REQUIRED)
Thursday, Oct 16, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg
On a trial basis Kids’ Night Out (KNO) is going to try a system of preregistering. Each week there will be a link on the home page (www.womenscenter.vt.edu) where parents can sign kids up. The aim is to have the link posted to the website by Monday afternoon each week. There will a “Doodle Poll” with a limited number of spots and when that is full, additional children for that week will no longer be accepted. Because of this, the following is requested: 1) Please only register if you are sure you are going to be able to make it; 2) so that everyone can have a chance to utilize KNO, if you have been coming regularly, perhaps wait until later in the week to see if there are still spots available. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

14. Q UNION AT VIRGINIA TECH: HEALING OUR DIVIDED NATION
Thursday, October 23, 7:00-9:00PM; 281 Davidson Hall
Grad student David Chen invites grad students to come and participate in a campus-wide conversation about how Christians can thoughtfully engage with our cultural moment. Three nationally broadcasted speakers and three student presenters will educate, inspire and offer people of faith creative ways to respond to the difficult challenges facing our local campuses and communities. National speakers this year are: David Brooks on "Cultivating Virtue," Kara Powell on "Confronting Our Technology Addiction," and Propaganda on "Our Complicated Moment." Student presenters are: Mairead Novak on "You Can’t Say That," Donovan Campbell on "Having a Faithful Presence," and Seyi Olusina on "The Blindness That Hurts." More information and RSVP at: https://qunion.squarespace.com/va-tech. Co-hosted by the Bradley Study Center and Q Ideas.

15. NO PIPELINE! DISCUSSION PANEL
Thursday, Oct 26, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
The Greens at Virginia Tech, chaired by graduate student Ryan Wesdock, are hosting a two-part speaker series. The first is a No Pipeline! Discussion Panel with speakers discussing how to stop an environmental catastrophe from destroying our water, our air, and our land. To find out more, visit our Facebook events https://www.facebook.com/events/153165675281656

16. CAREERS IN STUDENT AFFAIRS MONTH: AN AFTERNOON WITH DR. PERILLO
Friday, Oct 27, 3:30-5 pm, 198 McComas Hall
Join Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Patty Perillo, in community and conversation about careers in student affairs. Open to all students.

17. THE THOUGHTFUL COAL MINER LECTURE
Friday, Oct 27, 6:30pm, Haymarket Theater, Squires
The Greens at Virginia Tech, chaired by graduate student Ryan Wesdock, are hosting a two-part speaker series. The second event is a lecture by Nick Mullins titled “The Thoughtful Coal Miner” (www.thoughtfulcoalminer.com). Mr. Mullins will talk about the intersection of environmental politics, climate change, coal mining, and big business in the 21st century. To find out more, visit our Facebook events
https://www.facebook.com/events/965044630328061

18. BGSO HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY
Saturday, Oct 28, 10:00pm-2:00am, The Reserve, 204 Draper Rd., Blacksburg
Issa costume party!!!!  Enjoy a night of music and Halloween fun with BGSO. Fellow graduate student, Courtney "DJ King Court" Lawrence will be spinning all night. There will be cash prizes for the most creative and original costumes, so come dressed to impress. Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at https://bgsohalloween.eventbrite.com

Administrative Announcements

19. INTERNATIONAL ONE HEALTH DAY COMPETITION
VMCVM SAVMA Chapter, the Public Health Association, and the BMVS GSA are putting together the first ever competition in honor of International One Health Day! Teams of four students consisting of at least one veterinary student, MPH student, and research graduate student will develop plans to solve several different outbreak scenarios. Sign-up as a full team of 4 people, a partial team, or individually and be added you to a team. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams, and lunch will be provided! Sign-up by filling out this survey: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5aTq8Xs1LvcEB8N. If you have any questions or any trouble signing up, please email scavma@vt.edu.

20. LITTLE HOKIE(TM) HAND-ME-DOWN – 1st posting
How to Donate: Donations will be accepted November 1-13 at the GLC Welcome Center (front desk) or at the VT Women’s Center (206 Washington St.) What to Donate: Gently used clothes, books, toys, bedding, medical supplies, school supplies, formula (unexpired), bathing & grooming supplies (unopened), strollers, car seats, baby gear, diapers, etc.  Shopping Days: Students come by the GLC Multi-Purpose room Nov 14 from 12:00-6:00pm and Staff come by the same location on Nov 15 from 8:00am-12:00pm. Bags are provided. For more information, click here or contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu

21. VT ENGAGE: 3-WEEK PERU SERVICE IMMERSION TRIP – 1st posting
Immerse yourself in a powerful learning and service experience that will take you from the Amazon rainforest focusing on environmental conservation and protection projects, to the high Andes to work on community development projects. Participants spend time together on reflecting on experiences and social issues encountered on the trip, and grapple with difficult questions while sharing perspectives on service, justice, and social change. Serve with and learn about two nonprofits, visit Incan sites, connect with new people and more. Estimated cost. $2,800 + airfare. A limited amount of need-based financial assistance is available. All applicants will be considered. Contact Eliza Wethey at elizaw8@vt.edu or 540-231-5853 with questions. Learn more, and apply by Dec 1, 2017 here.

22. COOKING CLASSES STILL AVAILABLE – SIGN UP SOON! – 1st posting
There are two more Cooking Classes to sign up for and spots are still open! Classes are either $5 or $10 per person depending on the time and day. There is always plenty of food and everyone has the chance to cook and learn new recipes. The next classes are: “Multicultural Night” on Tuesday October 24 from 6:00-7:30pm OR Friday October 27th from 12:00-1:30pm. "I Can’t Believe It’s Vegan!" night is Nov 7 from 6:00-7:30pm OR Nov 10 from 12:00-1:30pm. For more information click here, or email Shelly Rasnick at rasnicks@vt.edu.

23. CALL FOR PAPERS: DOING INTERDISCIPLINARITY – 1st posting
The Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought (ASPECT) invites papers that engage a variety of contemporary issues about interdisciplinarity for its upcoming conference to be held March 22-24, 2018. Possible paper topics may include but are not limited to: the body and politics; critical approaches to technology and aesthetics; ecological and environmental issues; gender and sexuality; geopolitics and international relations; identity politics; marginalized knowledges; moral and political philosophy; new materialities; writing and history; postcolonialism; post-Marxism and ideology; race and politics; religion and secularity; minority studies; critical security studies; critical pedagogy; and violence and representation.
If interested, please go to one of the following websites, www.facebook.com/aspectvt or https://aspectconference.wordpress.com/, or email aspect@vt.edu.

24. INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY SEEKS NEW MEMBERS – 2nd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society is recruiting new members! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet other students doing interdisciplinary research and support interdisciplinarity on campus. If your research is interdisciplinary please check out our requirements and application procedures at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/membership/ or email Jessie at mjessie1@vt.edu with any questions. Deadline Nov 15.

25.  PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLL – PLEASE TAKE SURVEY – 3rd posting
The Graduate Professional Development series for Spring 2018 is currently being developed and we need your help.  Please go here to take part in a two minute survey.  Thanks!

26. INTRO SESSIONS INSPIRED BY SOFTWARE CARPENTRY – REGISTRATION OPEN – 3rd posting
A group of graduate students will be offering software carpentry-inspired sessions on Git and the Unix Shell.
Oct 20: The Unix Shell (9:00am – Noon), Oct 31: The Unix Shell (10:00-11:30am), and Nov 9: Git (12:30pm-3:30pm). Registration is now open at this link.

27. GSA GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (GRDP) – 3rd posting
Wednesday, Oct 18 at 12:00am – Wednesday, Oct 25 at 11:59pm
Do you have a research idea that deserves funding? The GSA Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) provides research grant funds to support graduate research. PhD students may be awarded up to $1,000 and Master’s students up to $750 to support their projects. The application will open at 12:00am on October 18, and will close on October 25 at 11:59pm. The application guidelines and more information can be found at bit.ly/GRDP-fall2017. If you have questions, contact the GRDP Chair at gsaGRDP@gmail.com.

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

Jobs:  None at this time

Volunteers and research participants sought

29. WEB-BASED VISUALIZATION AND REAL-TIME DATABASE PROGRAMMER – 1st posting
The DSV lab is currently looking for an experienced VT graduate/undergraduate student to help build modules or APIs for the Web-based visualization and a real-time database. General requirements for applicants include: experience with Python or C++; experience with Web based languages: HTML, PHP, Javascript, etc.; knowledge of designing and structuring API for visualization; web development experiences; This is a 10 hr/wk wage position and starts Nov 2017. Depending on performance, the job may be extended for the next semester.  If interested, send your resume to Mr. Xiaoyu Chen at  xiaoyuch@vt.edu. Visit the  DSV website for more info:
https://sites.google.com/a/vt.edu/ran-jin/about

30. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR DANCE OF NATIONS – 1st posting
CISO (Council of International Student Organizations) is looking for volunteers to help with set-up and backstage help for Dance of Nations to be held on Nov 10. Volunteers will be assigned their duty on November 9th and there also will be free dinner on that day (9th). If interested sign-up at https://goo.gl/forms/YJbGxBRRarGsW0K43). Contact archanaa@vt.edu with any questions.

31. PARTICIPANTS AGES 7 – 17 YEARS NEEDED FOR PSYCHOLOGY STUDY – 1st posting
The Virginia Tech Clinical Psychology graduate program is looking for faculty or staff with children between the ages 7 – 17 years old to participate in a volunteer child assessment.  The program offers $30 to volunteers. The assessment consists of three sessions, each lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours during which a graduate student will administer cognitive, achievement, and behavioral assessments tests to your child. These assessments will be conducted at the Child Study Center (460 Turner St.) and supervised by Dr. Susan White (director of the Child Assessment Clinic) and an upper level graduate student. As this is not a formal psychological assessment or a research project, testing results from this training exercise are not considered valid and parents do not receive an assessment report at the end of their participation.
If you are interested, please email swaindm@vt.edu and provide contact information (email and phone number) and availability during October.  A graduate student will contact participants to schedule the sessions. 

32. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: TREATMENT OF FEAR OF DOGS IN 4-7 YR OLD CHILDREN – 1st posting
A new study at the Virginia Tech Child Study is looking for interested participants in a treatment research study for 4-7 year old children with fears of dogs that are interfering in their lives. Parents will be provided with a book which has been designed to assist young children in becoming more comfortable around dogs. Parents will meet with a clinician who will teach them how to read the book with their child and do activities at home to improve their child’s fear. If the child’s fear level remains high, parents will be offered the opportunity to come in to the clinic for additional treatment. Treatment is offered at no cost and families will be compensated for completing pre-treatment and follow-up assessment sessions. If you are interested in participating in this study, please call the Child Study Center at 540-231-8276 or e-mail childstudycenter@gmail.com for further information.

33. VOLUNTEER FOR ECONOMIC STUDY – EARN MONEY FOR MAKING DECISIONS – 2nd posting
Virginia Tech researchers are currently seeking participants aged 18 and older for a research study. The study involves making interactive decisions on a computer and completing surveys. The study takes place in the Virginia Tech Economics Laboratory in 2088 Derring Hall. The study will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Participants receive $10 and may receive an additional $25 depending on choices made by you and the other participants. All compensation will be paid in cash at the conclusion of the experiments. If interested, sign up for an experiment session at https://vteconlab.sona-systems.com. Questions? Email vteconlab@gmail.com.

Upcoming events:

BGSO GENERAL BODY MEETING
Tuesday, October 31, 2017 Black Cultural Center, 7:00 – 9:00pm
All treats, and no tricks!  Dinner and socializing will occur from 7:00 – 7:30pm, with the meeting to commence at 7:30pm.  The Black Graduate Student Organization is YOUR organization, and in order for it to thrive we need your, time, talents, feedback, and ideas.  Come out and be a part of something special!

GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP)
Wednesday, Nov 1 at 12:00am – Wednesday, Nov 8 at 11:59pm
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open for applications on November 1st at 12:00am, and will close on November 8th at 11:59PM. This program can provide partial support for professional or conference travel occurring between July 1st and December 31st, 2017. We will release the application guide in the coming weeks, so keep checking bit.ly/TFP-fall2017 for updates and information. If you have questions, send them to gsaTravelFund@gmail.com.

EXPLORE, CREATE, CONNECT: INAUGURAL DIGITAL LITERACY SYMPOSIUM
Thursday, Nov 2, 9:30am-9:00pm, Newman Library Multipurpose Room
Graduate students are invited to explore digital literacy during this day-long symposium. Learn more about the program at https://lib.vt.edu/research-learning/digital-literacy.html. Registration required through NLI: http://bit.ly/2gadh7X . Contact Julia Feerrar (feerrar@vt.edu) with any questions.

MENTORING: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Tuesday, November 7, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC Room B
Are you a student looking for a mentor? Or do you already have one, but you have trouble communicating what you need?  Or are you a faculty member who wants to learn about being more approachable to advising and mentoring students?  Our panel of faculty and staff members will discuss their experiences with mentoring, and tips for making the mentorship process better. Sign-up here.

WRITING AN ABSTRACT
Tuesday, November 7, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Room C
Academic abstracts are not only a vital part of getting involved in conferences and journals, but also offer you an opportunity to describe and explain your work to broader audiences. At this writing workshop, we will explore the purpose, components, and organizational structure of academic abstracts. This workshop is best suited for students who are interested in composing an abstract about a current research project. If you would like detailed feedback on your writing, please bring a short draft of your research statement and your abstract to the workshop. Register here.

US STUDENT FULBRIGHT INFO SESSIONS
Wednesday, November 8, GLC Room B: 1:00 – 2:00; 2:30 – 3:30; 4:00 – 5:00
These interactive workshops introduce participants to the Fulbright program that offers US citizens funding opportunities to research, study, or teach abroad in more than 140 countries. For more information or to make an individual advising appointment, contact Betty Anderson (betty.anderson@vt.edu)

INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: SUDAN
Friday, Nov 10, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by Aljaliya Al-Sudaniya (the Sudanease Student Organization). For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

GUAC TALK WITH THE DEAN
Monday, Nov 13, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room B
How’s your semester going? Do you have questions or comments about graduate life? If you answered yes — or if you answered no, but still want to attend a discussion about graduate life — join this month’s Guac Talk with Dean DePauw. There will be guacamole (of course), great conversation, and hopefully you! This event is brought to you by the Graduate Student Assembly.

Events
1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesday and Wednesday, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. CHRISTIAN FACULTY/GRAD STUDENT LUNCH
Tuesday, Oct 17, 12:30-1:20pm, Brush Mountain Room, Squires Student Center
Topic: “Developing the ‘Whole’ Student: Connecting Academics and Student Life”
Dr. Patty Perillo, Vice President for Student Affairs at Virginia Tech, will share the importance of connecting all aspects of the university community to serve the ‘whole’ student.  How can faculty, staff, and student affairs professionals work together to further the common good of students?  Faculty, staff, and graduate students are invited to attend. Lunch will be provided, and $5 donations will be accepted.  Register at: https://goo.gl/forms/AzgrhtAsq2uOtKwn1. Sponsored by the Bradley Study Center.

3. GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct 17 & 18, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided; bring your own mug if you can.

4. RESEARCH A LA MODE: Using Social Media Data to Learn about Tourist’s Online Behavior
Tuesday, Oct 17, 2017, 5:00-6:00pm, Museum, 2062 Derring Hall
Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. In this month’s talk Jonilda Bahja, a PhD student in Hospitality and Tourism Management, will discuss how analyzing social media data from TripAdvisor, Expedia etc., can provide new insights about traveler behaviors. In the past, conventional research methods, such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups have been used to analyze traveler behaviors. Over the last decade, the growth and richness of social media data generated by users raised the interest of hospitality and tourism researchers analyzing large quantities of extracted online reviews and photos using a diversity of methods and computational tools, paving the way to a new research paradigm called “social media analytics.” This nontraditional and data-driven research approach draws novel insights and contributes to better understand traveler behaviors. Come for the talk and enjoy free ice cream!

5. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Oct 18, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Meets every Wednesday. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

6. LEARN ABOUT “BUILDING PEOPLE FOR WORK” – A NEW SPRING 2018 COURSE
Wednesday, Oct 18, 5:00-6:00pm, Bishop-Favrao Hall, outside of office 310A
Join Dr. Denise Simmons, Assistant Professor in the Myers-Lawson School of Construction and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, if you would like to learn about a new special topics course she is offering in Spring 2018 titled “Building People for Work.”  Pizza will be served.  To learn more about Dr. Simmons and her research, see www.denisersimmons.cee.vt.edu.

7. PANEL DISCUSSION ON LGBTQ+ EXPERIENCES IN AGRICULTURE FIELD
Wednesday, Oct 18, 5:00-6:00pm, Newman Library, Scale-Up Classroom (1st floor behind the cafe)
Students for Cultivating Change presents a panel discussion on LGBTQ+ student experiences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Students and alumni with diverse backgrounds, identities, current university affiliation and experiences will talk about being LGBTQ+ in the diverse fields of agriculture. Following the panel there will be an interest meeting for undergraduate and graduate students to form a club of those individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ or their allies in CALS. Doors open at 4:30pm and refreshments will  be provided. Questions can be sent to Ryan Amaral (ramaral1@vt.edu) or Dr. Donna Westfall-Rudd (mooredm@vt.edu).

8. DINING ETIQUETTE
Wednesday, Oct 18, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to conduct yourself during a formal meal in a professional setting, whether the dinner is part of an interview, a conference, or other engagement. The program will include a presentation, helpful tips, and a pizza meal during which you can network with graduate students. Register here.

9. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 19, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room       
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

10. WOMEN’S ALLIANCE WORKSHOP: BUDGETING & FINANCE FOR THE FEMALE GRAD STUDENT
Thursday, Oct 19 12-1:30pm in GLC Room C
The graduate committee of the Women’s Alliance invites you to bring your lunch for a workshop themed around finances and budgeting as a female graduate student. Further, we will discuss strategies and resources for negotiation of your future salary. RSVP here:
https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_50SkiXQRug3dA57

11. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursday, Oct 19, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

12. INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: MALAYSIA
Friday, Oct 20, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by The Malaysian Student Organization. For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

13. JOE’S TREES DAY TRIP
Sunday, Oct 22, 12:00pm-4:00pm
Join your fellow grad students and the Graduate Fellows on a trip to one of the New River Valley’s best kept secrets!  Joe’s Trees is a family owned business that runs a pumpkin patch each fall. There are tons of fun activities including hay rides, pumpkin picking, a corn maze, and bubble ball, as well as great food. Make sure to bring some cash in order to participate in these awesome activities or in case you find any good smelling food. If you are interested in joining, fill out this survey before it closes on Wednesday, October 18th. Contact Danielle Lewis at mdlewis4@vt.edu if you have any questions!

Administrative Announcements
14. INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY SEEKS NEW MEMBERS – 1st posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society is recruiting new members! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet other students doing interdisciplinary research and support interdisciplinarity on campus. If your research is interdisciplinary please check out our requirements and application procedures at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/membership/ or email Jessie at mjessie1@vt.edu with any questions. Deadline Nov 15.

15. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLL – PLEASE TAKE SURVEY – 2nd posting
The Graduate Professional Development series for Spring 2018 is currently being developed and we need your help.  Please go here to take part in a two minute survey.  Thanks!

16. INTRO SESSIONS INSPIRED BY SOFTWARE CARPENTRY – REGISTRATION OPEN – 2nd posting
A group of graduate students will be offering software carpentry-inspired sessions on Git and the Unix Shell.
Oct 20: The Unix Shell (9:00am – Noon), Oct 31: The Unix Shell (10:00-11:30am), and Nov 9: Git (12:30pm-3:30pm). Registration is now open at this link.

17. GSA GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (GRDP) – 2nd posting
Wednesday, Oct 18 at 12:00am – Wednesday, Oct 25 at 11:59pm
Do you have a research idea that deserves funding? The GSA Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) provides research grant funds to support graduate research. PhD students may be awarded up to $1,000 and Master’s students up to $750 to support their projects. The application will open at 12:00am on October 18, and will close on October 25 at 11:59pm. The application guidelines and more information can be found at bit.ly/GRDP-fall2017. If you have questions, contact the GRDP Chair at gsaGRDP@gmail.com.

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

19. OPEN EDUCATION TEACHING INQUIRY GROUP – 3rd posting
Faculty and future faculty interested in exploring the potential of open educational practices are invited to join a Teaching Inquiry Group. Practices important to open education include: sharing your work, feedback/transparency, ideas & agency, licenses/giving credit/ethics, and students as central. The group will meet to discuss readings related to open education, Creative Commons licensing, creation of open educational resources with (and without) students, understanding the various "opens," application of open source philosophy to teaching & learning, and related topics and readings identified by the group. Meetings will be scheduled for 1-2 times per month. Fall 2017 meetings are scheduled for Oct. 5, 12, 26, Nov 2, 30, and Dec 7. Please contact Anita Walz arwalz@vt.edu from the University Libraries to express interest and to obtain updated location information.

20. 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 Fall Open House (Oct 28) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. To learn more and for the link to submission go to https://graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/glc-art-and-photo-contest.html.  Submission deadline: Friday, Oct 20, 2017.

Jobs:  None at this time

Volunteers and research participants sought
21. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: TREATMENT OF FEAR OF DOGS IN 4-7 YR OLD CHILDREN – 1st posting
A new study at the Virginia Tech Child Study is looking for interested participants in a treatment research study for 4-7 year old children with fears of dogs that are interfering in their lives. Parents will be provided with a book which has been designed to assist young children in becoming more comfortable around dogs. Parents will meet with a clinician who will teach them how to read the book with their child and do activities at home to improve their child’s fear. If the child’s fear level remains high, parents will be offered the opportunity to come in to the clinic for additional treatment. Treatment is offered at no cost and families will be compensated for completing pre-treatment and follow-up assessment sessions. If you are interested in participating in this study, please call the Child Study Center at 540-231-8276 or e-mail childstudycenter@gmail.com for further information.

22. VOLUNTEER FOR ECONOMIC STUDY – EARN MONEY FOR MAKING DECISIONS – 2nd posting
Virginia Tech researchers are currently seeking participants aged 18 and older for a research study. The study involves making interactive decisions on a computer and completing surveys. The study takes place in the Virginia Tech Economics Laboratory in 2088 Derring Hall. The study will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Participants receive $10 and may receive an additional $25 depending on choices made by you and the other participants. All compensation will be paid in cash at the conclusion of the experiments. If interested, sign up for an experiment session at https://vteconlab.sona-systems.com. Questions? Email vteconlab@gmail.com.

23. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR “SIT-STAND” DESK STUDY – 3rd posting
During this study participants will be asked to perform general office tasks using a sit-stand desk. Participants will also be expected to bring a laptop to perform office tasks of their choice during the time of the experiment. Three experimental sessions of about 4.5 hours each are required. During this study body posture and muscle activity will be assessed using non-invasive methods. Participants must be ages 18-40 years, have no current or recent (past one year) history of low-back pain or other musculoskeletal injuries, and use a computer for at least four hours/day. Compensation is $10/hr. If interested, call or email Jang-Ho Park at 703-463-6638 or jhparkvt@vt.edu.

24. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR OSTEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT STUDY – 3rd posting
The Kevin P. Granata Lab is seeking volunteers for a study examining osteopathic assessment and manipulation. Participation in the study would include an osteopathic assessment and a biomechanical assessment; osteopathic manipulation and a second biomechanical assessment may also be included in participation. Volunteers must be between 18 and 35 years of age and have no past or current lower extremity injuries that required medical care. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, please contact Cherice Hughes-Oliver at granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.
 
Upcoming events:
WORKING IN INTERNATIONAL CONTEXTS: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Monday, Oct 23, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room F
Interested in learning about to working abroad or in international/diverse contexts, with international colleagues and populations?  The panel presenters will discuss intercultural communication, their experiences of conducting research and working abroad, and how students can learn to be open to different ways of working in the world. Register here.  

“CLEAN PLATE CLUB: COMBATING FOOD WASTE IN AMERICA”
Tuesday, Oct 24, 4:00-5:15pm, Multipurpose Room, Newman Library
Up to 40 percent of all edible food is wasted in the United States. Food waste has recently gained traction in social media, and within the last couple years, many initiatives have been created to combat this extensive problem. The talk will be led by Susan Chen, recipient of the 2017 Janet L. Cameron Scholarship. Susan Chen is currently a graduate student in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise and is researching food waste behaviors in children. Join this conversation as it explores the past and present issues around food waste and explores solutions to prevent this in the future.

USING BODY LANGUAGE TO COMMUNICATE YOUR RESEARCH
Tuesday, Oct 24, 4:30-6:00pm, GLC Room F
The way research and work is communicated is just as important as the information itself. This session will cover basic tips and strategies for learning open and clear body language that supports, not distracts from, communicating your research. Register here.

PROFESSIONALIZE YOUR WRITING
Thursday, Oct 26, 6:00-7:00pm, GLC Room F
This session will teach participants topnotch writing skills, while helping promote groundbreaking research and innovative ideas. Students will be guided through specific practices that can immediately apply to current and future projects. Whether aiming for publication or preparing a thesis/dissertation, this workshop will provide strategies and resources to help participants elevate writing and meet goals. Take away information to improve a manuscript’s language, sentence-level structure, and clarity.  Register here.

NO PIPELINE! DISCUSSION PANEL
Thursday, Oct 26, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
The Greens at Virginia Tech, chaired by graduate student Ryan Wesdock, are hosting a two-part speaker series. The first is a No Pipeline! Discussion Panel with speakers discussing how to stop an environmental catastrophe from destroying our water, our air, and our land. To find out more, visit our Facebook events https://www.facebook.com/events/153165675281656

THE THOUGHTFUL COAL MINER LECTURE
Friday, Oct 27, 6:30pm, Haymarket Theater, Squires
The Greens at Virginia Tech, chaired by graduate student Ryan Wesdock, are hosting a two-part speaker series. The second event is a lecture by Nick Mullins titled “The Thoughtful Coal Miner” (www.thoughtfulcoalminer.com). Mr. Mullins will talk about the intersection of environmental politics, climate change, coal mining, and big business in the 21st century. To find out more, visit our Facebook events
https://www.facebook.com/events/965044630328061

BGSO HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY
Saturday, Oct 28, 10:00pm-2:00am, The Reserve, 204 Draper Rd., Blacksburg
Issa costume party!!!!  Enjoy a night of music and Halloween fun with BGSO. Fellow graduate student, Courtney "DJ King Court" Lawrence will be spinning all night. There will be cash prizes for the most creative and original costumes, so come dressed to impress. Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at https://bgsohalloween.eventbrite.com

GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP)
Wednesday, Nov 1 at 12:00am – Wednesday, Nov 8 at 11:59pm
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program will open for applications on November 1st at 12:00am, and will close on November 8th at 11:59PM. This program can provide partial support for professional or conference travel occurring between July 1st and December 31st, 2017. We will release the application guide in the coming weeks, so keep checking bit.ly/TFP-fall2017 for updates and information. If you have questions, send them to gsaTravelFund@gmail.com.

Events
1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesday and Wednesday, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct 10 & 11, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided, bring you own mug if you can.

3. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Oct 11, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Meets every Wednesday. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

4. OCTOBER PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Oct 11, 12:00pm, GLC Room F
Join guest speakers from the department of Psychology and Clinical Science to discuss behavioral and developmental issues: What to look out for, when to ask for help, and how to handle those most difficult parenting moments. The guest speaker will highlight awareness of autism factors, as well as other developmental red flags. As always, partners and children are welcome at these events. RSVP is required.  .

5. NAVIGATING GRADUATE SCHOOL: SETTING ACHIEVABLE EDUCATIONAL GOALS
Wednesday, October 11, 4:00-5:15, GLC Room C (NEW DATE/TIME/PLACE)
Professor Jennifer Sano-Franchini will guide a small group of students in developing achievable educational goals. Students will learn to express why they have chosen their current profession, how they plan to be successful in graduate school, and ultimately plan for a successful future beyond. Participants will be learn how to express their strengths and weaknesses through writing, and finish the session knowing a bit more about themselves. Register here.

6. WORKSHOP: DEVISED DANCE THEATER WITH LUCKY PLUSH PRODUCTIONS
Thursday, Oct 12, 11:00am-12:15pm, Theatre 101 (rm.201) 200 College Ave
Designed for intermediate to experienced dancers and actors, this workshop explores the ensemble-based creative methods behind Lucky Plush Productions’ nationally acclaimed dance-theater work. Following a simple warm-up that includes improvisation and vocal exercises, participants are led through a collaborative devising process in which they turn actions, movements, and stories into short group compositions. The workshop culminates in a very informal sharing of participants’ dance-theater experiments. Free admission. Limited availability. Registration recommended to hold your spot. Questions? Contact Caroline at cgdavis@vt.edu. Visit  https://luckyplush.eventbrite.com for more information.

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 12, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room       
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

8. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursday,  Oct 12, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

9.MID-ATLANTIC COLLEGIATE RECOVERY CONFERENCE
Friday & Saturday, Oct 13-14, GLC
The Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Recovery Conference brings together Collegiate Recovery Communities (CRC’s) from across D.C., Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia to learn from each other and address some of the issues that are common in CRC’s as well as hear from professionals in the field. We also invite faculty and staff from the New River Valley to attend as well and learn how they can support the Collegiate Recovery Communities of Virginia Tech and Radford. For more information or to register, please check out our website www.collegiatesrecover.org.

Administrative Announcements
10. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLL – PLEASE TAKE SURVEY – 1st posting
The Graduate Professional Development series for Spring 2018 is currently being developed and we need your help.  Please go here to take part in a two minute survey.  Thanks!

11. INTRO SESSIONS INSPIRED BY SOFTWARE CARPENTRY – REGISTRATION OPEN – 1st posting
A group of graduate students will be offering software carpentry-inspired sessions on Git and the Unix Shell.
Oct 20: The Unix Shell (9:00am – Noon), Oct 31: The Unix Shell (10:00-11:30am), and Nov 9: Git (12:30pm-3:30pm). Registration is now open at this link.

12. GSA GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (GRDP) – 1st posting
Wednesday, Oct 18 at 12:00am – Wednesday, Oct 25 at 11:59pm
Do you have a research idea that deserves funding? The GSA Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) provides research grant funds to support graduate research. PhD students may be awarded up to $1,000 and Master’s students up to $750 to support their projects. The application will open at 12:00am on October 18, and will close on October 25 at 11:59pm. The application guidelines and more information can be found at bit.ly/GRDP-fall2017. If you have questions, contact the GRDP Chair at gsaGRDP@gmail.com.

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

14. OPEN EDUCATION TEACHING INQUIRY GROUP – 2nd posting
Faculty and future faculty interested in exploring the potential of open educational practices are invited to join a Teaching Inquiry Group. Practices important to open education include: sharing your work, feedback/transparency, ideas & agency, licenses/giving credit/ethics, and students as central. The group will meet to discuss readings related to open education, Creative Commons licensing, creation of open educational resources with (and without) students, understanding the various "opens," application of open source philosophy to teaching & learning, and related topics and readings identified by the group. Meetings will be scheduled for 1-2 times per month. Fall 2017 meetings are scheduled for Oct. 5, 12, 26, Nov 2, 30, and Dec 7. Please contact Anita Walz arwalz@vt.edu from the University Libraries to express interest and to obtain updated location information.

15. 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 Fall Open House (Oct 28) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. To learn more and for the link to submission go to https://graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/glc-art-and-photo-contest.html.  Submission deadline: Friday, Oct 20, 2017.

16. GRADUATE SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2017 – 3rd posting
The Grad School’s Fall 2017 Professional Development schedule is ready!  Details for the first two session are listed in the upcoming events below. To see the full schedule, go to the link here.

Jobs
17. HOURLY WAGE RESEARCH ASSISTANT FOR NIH-FUNDED PROJECT – 3rd posting
An hourly wage research assistant position is available to assist on an NIH-funded project examining heat exposure in urban and rural communities in Alabama. This approximately 15 hr. per week position will run from Nov 1, 2017 – Jun 30, 2018, paying $17.00 per hour. Job responsibilities include data organization, data preparation, and help with statistical analysis of data collected; literature search and tabular summary on heat exposure metrics and heat-air pollution-health epidemiology studies; help plan and develop agendas and survey instruments for workshops and presentation (written and oral) of findings to research group. Candidates will have excellent written communication and organizational skills; ability to pay attention to detail, work independently, and meet deadlines; basic statistical analysis skills with mixed effects (repeated measures) regression analysis experience preferred. This position could lead to a Graduate Research Assistantship. If you are interested, please email your cover letter and resume by Oct 15 to Julia Gohlke at jgohlke@vt.edu.

Volunteers and research participants sought
18. VOLUNTEER FOR ECONOMIC STUDY – EARN MONEY FOR MAKING DECISIONS – 1st posting
Virginia Tech researchers are currently seeking participants aged 18 and older for a research study. The study involves making interactive decisions on a computer and completing surveys. The study takes place in the Virginia Tech Economics Laboratory in 2088 Derring Hall. The study will take about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Participants receive $10 and may receive an additional $25 depending on choices made by you and the other participants. All compensation will be paid in cash at the conclusion of the experiments. If interested, sign up for an experiment session at https://vteconlab.sona-systems.com. Questions? Email vteconlab@gmail.com.

19. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR “SIT-STAND” DESK STUDY – 2nd posting
During this study participants will be asked to perform general office tasks using a sit-stand desk. Participants will also be expected to bring a laptop to perform office tasks of their choice during the time of the experiment. Three experimental sessions of about 4.5 hours each are required. During this study body posture and muscle activity will be assessed using non-invasive methods. Participants must be ages 18-40 years, have no current or recent (past one year) history of low-back pain or other musculoskeletal injuries, and use a computer for at least four hours/day. Compensation is $10/hr. If interested, call or email Jang-Ho Park at 703-463-6638 or jhparkvt@vt.edu.

20. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR OSTEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT STUDY – 2nd posting
The Kevin P. Granata Lab is seeking volunteers for a study examining osteopathic assessment and manipulation. Participation in the study would include an osteopathic assessment and a biomechanical assessment; osteopathic manipulation and a second biomechanical assessment may also be included in participation. Volunteers must be between 18 and 35 years of age and have no past or current lower extremity injuries that required medical care. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, please contact Cherice Hughes-Oliver at granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

21. FEMALE RUNNERS NEEDS FOR SYMMETRY STUDY – 3rd  posting
The Granata Lab is recruiting female runners for a study looking at side-to-side symmetry. Participants much be able to complete a 4 mile outdoor run. This study requires two visits that are less than 1 hour. If you are interested in participating please contact us at: granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

22. PARTICIPANTS NEED FOR A WALKING AND RUNNING STUDY – 3rd posting
The Granata Lab is recruiting participants for a short indoor walking and running study. The research session is expected to last approximately 45 minutes and involved 10 minutes of walking and running at various paces and inclines. If you are interested in participating please contact us at: granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.
 
Upcoming events:
PANEL DISCUSSION ON LGBTQ+ EXPERIENCES IN AGRICULTURE FIELD
Wednesday, Oct 18, 5:00-6:00pm, Newman Library, Scale-Up Classroom (1st floor behind the cafe)
Students for Cultivating Change presents a panel discussion on LGBTQ+ student experiences in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. Students and alumni with diverse backgrounds, identities, current university affiliation and experiences will talk about being LGBTQ+ in the diverse fields of agriculture. Following the panel there will be an interest meeting for undergraduate and graduate students to form a club of those individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ or their allies in CALS. Doors open at 4:30pm and refreshments will  be provided. Questions can be sent to Ryan Amaral (ramaral1@vt.edu) or Dr. Donna Westfall-Rudd (mooredm@vt.edu).

DINING ETIQUETTE
Wednesday, Oct 18, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to conduct yourself during a formal meal in a professional setting, whether the dinner is part of an interview, a conference, or other engagement. The program will include a presentation, helpful tips, and a pizza meal during which you can network with graduate students. Register here.

WOMEN’S ALLIANCE WORKSHOP: BUDGETING & FINANCE FOR THE FEMALE GRAD STUDENT
Thursday, Oct 19 12-1:30pm in GLC Room C
The graduate committee of the Women’s Alliance invites you to bring your lunch for a workshop themed around finances and budgeting as a female graduate student. Further, we will discuss strategies and resources for negotiation of your future salary. RSVP here:
https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_50SkiXQRug3dA57

INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: MALAYSIA
Friday, Oct 20, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by The Malaysian Student Organization. For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

JOE’S TREES DAY TRIP
Sunday, Oct 22, 12:00pm-4:00pm
Join your fellow grad students and the Graduate Fellows on a trip to one of the New River Valley’s best kept secrets!  Joe’s Trees is a family owned business that runs a pumpkin patch each fall. There are tons of fun activities including hay rides, pumpkin picking, a corn maze, and bubble ball, as well as great food. Make sure to bring some cash in order to participate in these awesome activities or in case you find any good smelling food. If you are interested in joining, fill out this survey before it closes on Wednesday, October 18th. Contact Danielle Lewis at mdlewis4@vt.edu if you have any questions!

WORKING IN INTERNATIONAL CONTEXTS: WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW?
Monday, Oct 23, 5:00-6:30pm, GLC Room F
Interested in learning about to working abroad or in international/diverse contexts, with international colleagues and populations?  The panel presenters will discuss intercultural communication, their experiences of conducting research and working abroad, and how students can learn to be open to different ways of working in the world. Register here.  

USING BODY LANGUAGE TO COMMUNICATE YOUR RESEARCH
Tuesday, Oct 24, 4:30-6:00pm, GLC Room F
The way research and work is communicated is just as important as the information itself. This session will cover basic tips and strategies for learning open and clear body language that supports, not distracts from, communicating your research. Register here.

PROFESSIONALIZE YOUR WRITING
Thursday, Oct 26, 6:00-7:00pm, GLC Room F
This session will teach participants topnotch writing skills, while helping promote groundbreaking research and innovative ideas. Students will be guided through specific practices that can immediately apply to current and future projects. Whether aiming for publication or preparing a thesis/dissertation, this workshop will provide strategies and resources to help participants elevate writing and meet goals. Take away information to improve a manuscript’s language, sentence-level structure, and clarity.  Register here.

BGSO HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY
Saturday, Oct 28, 10:00pm-2:00am, The Reserve, 204 Draper Rd., Blacksburg
Issa costume party!!!!  Enjoy a night of music and Halloween fun with BGSO. Fellow graduate student, Courtney "DJ King Court" Lawrence will be spinning all night. There will be cash prizes for the most creative and original costumes, so come dressed to impress. Tickets are $5.00 and can be purchased at https://bgsohalloween.eventbrite.com

Events

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesday and Wednesday, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. #RESIST – LESSONS FROM LUTHER AT 500
Monday, October 2, 7:00-8:30pm, Goodwin 135
On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted 95 debate questions onto the door of the Wittenberg Church in Germany, launching the "Protestant Reformation." Why do the actions, 500 years ago, of a German monk inspire both the secular media and the modern church today? Sponsored by graduate student Daniel Chen, this session features Colin Baker, a local teacher and student of the Reformation, who will offer some historical insights on the 500th anniversary of the Reformation and commentary on our current moment. Colin has an MA in Modern History and Politics from Edinburgh University, Scotland.

3. GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct 3 & 4, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided, bring you own mug if you can.

4. RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTS: FROM TRASH TO CASH
Tuesday, Oct 3, 2017, 5:00-6:00pm, Museum, 2062 Derring Hall
Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. This month’s talk will discuss how Biotechnology, Engineering and Photosynthesis can change high-value chemicals production. The rate of discovery of new molecules with antibiotic activity is not fast enough to keep up with the rate of resistance development by microorganisms, creating a need for the dangerous use of stronger last-resort drugs to treat infections. At this talk, we will explore how Cyanobacteria, the oldest photosynthetic organisms on Earth could revolutionize the production of antibiotics and how our everyday trash could be used to make the entire production process much cheaper. Come for the talk and enjoy free ice cream!

5. NAVIGATING IMPOSTER SYNDROME DISCUSSION
Wednesday, Oct 4, 2017, 6:00 p.m., GLC Room B
Do you ever doubt your abilities? Do you feel an intense pressure to succeed and prove yourself? Do you ever feel like a fraud? Join the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) for a discussion on how to navigate imposter syndrome in graduate school! This discussion will be led by Dr. Julie Dunsmore (Psychology) and Dr. Gabriel Serna (Higher Education).

6. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Sep Oct 4, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Meets every Wednesday. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

7. GLC CAFÉ WEDNESDAY EDITION: ALL THINGS PUMPKIN SPICE     
Wednesday, Oct 4, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room       
To accommodate those who can never attend the café on Thursdays, we are introducing the occasional Wednesday edition. Celebrate the arrival of October with free coffee, cookies and pumpkin spice (optional) in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

8. MEET THE CANDIDATES
Wednesday, Oct 4 2017, 6:30pm, GLC Auditorium
Graduate student Ryan Wesdock invites you to a candidate forum hosted by The Greens at Virginia Tech. The forum will feature local candidates for town council, mayor, and House of Delegates. Everyone is invited to attend. If you are interested in local politics, this is a great opportunity to be informed about what’s going on right in your backyard. Questions from the audience will be read, time permitting. Please email greensatvirginiatech@gmail.com for more information.

9. HISPANIC/LATINX CONNECT LUNCH
Thursday, Oct 5th, 12:00pm-1:00pm, Graduate Life Center, Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s lunch will be keynote by Dr. Luisa Havens, Vice President for Enrollment Management. Please RSVP by Sunday, October 1st through this link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3KSuqbLSYcXvuVn If you have any questions, contact Luisa Burgos at luisab93@vt.edu.

10. H-1B (WORK VISA) AND PERMANENT RESIDENCY WORKSHOP
Thursday, Oct 5, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn about work visa and employment-based permanent residency options at this workshop presented by immigration attorneys. This workshop is most relevant for international students who are planning to graduate this fall and may seek OPT and/or H-1B employment after graduation.

11. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursday,  Oct 5, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

12. BREAKFAST WITH THE DEAN
Fri, Oct 6, 9:00-10:00am, Graduate Life Center (GLC) Room C
How’s your semester going so far? What are your thoughts about the graduate life experience here at Virginia Tech? Get some face-to-face time with Dr. Karen DePauw, Dean of the Graduate School, and share your thoughts with her and other students in the graduate community. Breakfast will be provided, and this event is free to all graduate students. RSVP at bit.ly/DeanBreakfast-Oct6.

13. GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAININGS
Friday, Oct 6 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room A
The Graduate Honor System is holding two trainings for faculty and student panelists in the coming weeks. Panelists are volunteers who review the evidence and sit on the hearing panels, as well as occasionally holding information sessions for academic departments. We are always in need of more people to join the honor system and be available for panels! If you are interested in getting involved, please join us. If there are questions, please e-mail ghs@vt.edu.

14. COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR ADVISOR
Friday, Oct 6, 2:00-3:30pm, GLC Room C
Come learn the strategies to manage meetings and communication with your advisor and how to develop a healthy and productive relationship with him or her. This is part of a series of workshops that are being offered by the Cook Counseling Center at the GLC this semester.

15. GSA FALL BEER & WINE SOCIAL
Fri, Oct 6, 5:00-9:00pm, Lane Stadium South End Zone Club
The Graduate Student Assembly is gearing up for an exciting Autumnal Beer & Wine Social in a brand new space: Lane Stadium. Join us at the Lane Stadium South End Zone Club between 5pm and 9pm for drinks, music from DJ CJ, and fun. Tickets will be $12 ahead of time — $15 at the door — and each ticket will come with (1) unlimited tastings and (2) three full drinks (where a full drink is equivalent to a 5 oz. glass of wine or a 12 oz. beer). Please that any additional drinks will cost $5/ticket, and all proceeds from these sales will go to hurricane relief efforts. There is also a non-alcohol-drinking entry option, which is $5 at the door. You can purchase your tickets at bit.ly/FallBW2017-tix. For more information on parking, visit the Facebook event page at bit.ly/FallBW2017. We are also in search of volunteers for this event! All volunteers will receive FREE ADMISSION to the social (although any additional drinks beyond the first three will still cost $5/ticket) AND our eternal gratitude. To sign-up as a volunteer, visit bit.ly/FallBW2017-volunteers.
   
16. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: FINDING ACADEMIC AND SPIRITUAL MENTORS IN GRAD SCHOOL
Friday, Oct 6, 6:00-8:00pm, GLC Room B
All are welcome to join us for a free dinner and dialogue about finding the mentors we need to thrive in graduate school. Michelle Harding, Assistant Professor of Accounting & Information Systems, will share about her experiences with mentors during her recently-completed PhD program. For more info, visit: http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/

Administrative Announcements

17. NUTSHELL GAMES, 90-SECOND PRESENTATIONS OF GRAD STUDENT RESEARCH — SIGNUP NOW! – 1st posting
All graduate students are invited to compete in the Nutshell Games, 90-second presentations of graduate student research, on Saturday, November 4, 4:15 pm at the Moss Arts Center. All contestants will receive professional videorecordings of their presentations. Three winners will each receive a $500 cash prize. Contestants also may register for a workshop to help prepare for the games.   You can register here for both https://communicatingscience.wufoo.com/forms/w1jxtuos0kh9phs/

18. OPEN EDUCATION TEACHING INQUIRY GROUP – 1st posting
Faculty and future faculty interested in exploring the potential of open educational practices are invited to join a Teaching Inquiry Group. Practices important to open education include: sharing your work, feedback/transparency, ideas & agency, licenses/giving credit/ethics, and students as central. The group will meet to discuss readings related to open education, Creative Commons licensing, creation of open educational resources with (and without) students, understanding the various "opens," application of open source philosophy to teaching & learning, and related topics and readings identified by the group. Meetings will be scheduled for 1-2 times per month. Fall 2017 meetings are scheduled for Oct. 5, 12, 26, Nov 2, 30, and Dec 7. Please contact Anita Walz arwalz@vt.edu from the University Libraries to express interest and to obtain updated location information.

19. 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 Fall Open House (Oct 28) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. To learn more and for the link to submission go to this link.  Submission deadline: Thursday, Oct 20, 2016.

20.. GRADUATE SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2017 – 2nd posting
The Grad School’s Fall 2017 Professional Development schedule is ready!  Details for the first two session are listed in the upcoming events below. To see the full schedule, go to the link here.

21. ON-CAMPUS FOOD PANTRY – 3rd posting
209 Manna Ministries is VT’s on-campus food pantry that provides food, toiletries, and school supplies to students. A donation-based pantry, there are opportunities for graduate students to hold a food drive, shop in the pantry, or volunteer. Located at 209 W Roanoke St on the 3rd floor, the hours are 4:00-6:30pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.  Find more information on Facebook or at www.209mannaministries.org.  Questions? Contact 209MannaVT@gmail.com.

Jobs

22. HOURLY WAGE RESEARCH ASSISTANT FOR NIH-FUNDED PROJECT – 2nd posting
An hourly wage research assistant position is available to assist on an NIH-funded project examining heat exposure in urban and rural communities in Alabama. This approximately 15 hr. per week position will run from Nov 1, 2017 – Jun 30, 2018, paying $17.00 per hour. Job responsibilities include data organization, data preparation, and help with statistical analysis of data collected; literature search and tabular summary on heat exposure metrics and heat-air pollution-health epidemiology studies; help plan and develop agendas and survey instruments for workshops and presentation (written and oral) of findings to research group. Candidates will have excellent written communication and organizational skills; ability to pay attention to detail, work independently, and meet deadlines; basic statistical analysis skills with mixed effects (repeated measures) regression analysis experience preferred. This position could lead to a Graduate Research Assistantship. If you are interested, please email your cover letter and resume by Oct 15 to Julia Gohlke at jgohlke@vt.edu.

23. WATER POLO COACH – 3rd posting
The VT women’s club water polo team is in search of a coach for this academic year! This team of approximately 20 undergrads with varying water polo experience practices three times a week: Sundays 5-7pm and Monday/Wednesdays 8-10pm in War Memorial Pool. Practice is currently run by our four captains but someone out of the water with experience is needed to give guidance to improve. Please contact president, Brittany Henry (britth4@vt.edu), if you are interested or want more information.

Volunteers and research participants sought:

24. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR “SIT-STAND” DESK STUDY – 1st posting
During this study participants will be asked to perform general office tasks using a sit-stand desk. Participants will also be expected to bring a laptop to perform office tasks of their choice during the time of the experiment. Three experimental sessions of about 4.5 hours each are required. During this study body posture and muscle activity will be assessed using non-invasive methods. Participants must be ages 18-40 years, have no current or recent (past one year) history of low-back pain or other musculoskeletal injuries, and use a computer for at least four hours/day. Compensation is $10/hr. If interested, call or email Jang-Ho Park at 703-463-6638 or jhparkvt@vt.edu.

25. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR OSTEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT STUDY – 1st posting
The Kevin P. Granata Lab is seeking volunteers for a study examining osteopathic assessment and manipulation. Participation in the study would include an osteopathic assessment and a biomechanical assessment; osteopathic manipulation and a second biomechanical assessment may also be included in participation. Volunteers must be between 18 and 35 years of age and have no past or current lower extremity injuries that required medical care. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, please contact Cherice Hughes-Oliver at granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

26. FEMALE RUNNERS NEEDS FOR SYMMETRY STUDY – 2nd  posting
The Granata Lab is recruiting female runners for a study looking at side-to-side symmetry. Participants much be able to complete a 4 mile outdoor run. This study requires two visits that are less than 1 hour. If you are interested in participating please contact us at: granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

27. PARTICIPANTS NEED FOR A WALKING AND RUNNING STUDY – 2nd posting
The Granata Lab is recruiting participants for a short indoor walking and running study. The research session is expected to last approximately 45 minutes and involved 10 minutes of walking and running at various paces and inclines. If you are interested in participating please contact us at: granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.
 
Upcoming events:

OCTOBER PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Oct 11, 12:00pm, GLC Room F
No such thing as a free lunch?… Sure there is. As always, significant others and children are welcome, but it is limited to the first 50 people who RSVP AT http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-october2. Also, we need your help! We want to ensure these events are relevant and engaging. Please help as we seek to find Parent Support luncheon speakers whose messages are tailored to what you feel is pertinent to your situation. You can access the two-question survey here https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JJTRHCR .

NAVIGATING GRADUATE SCHOOL: SETTING ACHIEVABLE EDUCATIONAL GOALS
Wednesday, October 11, 4:00-5:15, GLC Room C (NEW DATE/TIME/PLACE)
Professor Jennifer Sano-Franchini will guide a small group of students in developing achievable educational goals. Students will learn to express why they have chosen their current profession, how they plan to be successful in graduate school, and ultimately plan for a successful future beyond. Participants will be learn how to express their strengths and weaknesses through writing, and finish the session knowing a bit more about themselves. Register here.

MID-ATLANTIC COLLEGIATE RECOVERY CONFERENCE
Friday & Saturday, Oct 13-14, GLC
The Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Recovery Conference brings together Collegiate Recovery Communities (CRC’s) from across D.C., Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia to learn from each other and address some of the issues that are common in CRC’s as well as hear from professionals in the field. We also invite faculty and staff from the New River Valley to attend as well and learn how they can support the Collegiate Recovery Communities of Virginia Tech and Radford. For more information or to register, please check out our website www.collegiatesrecover.org.

DINING ETIQUETTE
Wednesday, October 18, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to conduct yourself during a formal meal in a professional setting, whether the dinner is part of an interview, a conference, or other engagement. The program will include a presentation, helpful tips, and a pizza meal during which you can network with graduate students. Register here.

INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: MALAYSIA
Friday, Oct 20, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by The Malaysian Student Organization. For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

JOE’S TREES DAY TRIP
Sunday, Oct 22, 12:00pm-4:00pm
Join your fellow grad students and the Graduate Fellows on a trip to one of the New River Valley’s best kept secrets! Joe’s Trees is a family owned business that runs a pumpkin patch each fall. There are tons of fun activities including hay rides, pumpkin picking, a corn maze, and bubble ball, as well as great food. Make sure to bring some cash in order to participate in these awesome activities or in case you find any good smelling food. If you are interested in joining, fill out this survey before it closes on Wednesday, October 18th. Contact Danielle Lewis at mdlewis4@vt.edu if you have any questions!

NUTSHELL GAMES, 90-SECOND PRESENTATIONS OF GRADUATE STUDENT RESEARCH
Saturday, November 4, 4:15 pm, Moss Arts Center, Anne and Ellen Fife Theatre
All graduate students are invited to compete in the Nutshell Games, 90-second presentations of graduate student research, on Saturday, November 4, at the Moss Arts Center. All contestants will receive professional videorecordings of their presentations. Three winners will each receive a $500 cash prize. Contestants also may register for a workshop to help prepare for the games.   You can register here for both.https://communicatingscience.wufoo.com/forms/w1jxtuos0kh9phs/

Events

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/25/2017
– Career Advising: Wednesday, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in lobby
– GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesday GLC Room B and Wednesday, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL FAIR
Monday, Sep 25, 11:30am-1:30pm, Floor 2 of Squires Student Center
This annual Graduate and Professional School Fair (GPSF), hosted by the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA), is for undergraduate and Master’s students looking to continue their schooling in the graduate and/or  professional realm. Come to Floor 2 of the Squires Student Center for an opportunity to have face-to-face meetings with recruiters from over 120 different graduate and professional programs from all over the US — and from outside of the US as well. The fair will run from 11:30am-1:30pm, and is FREE for all students. For a complete list of visiting schools and programs, visit http://bit.ly/GPSF2017-institutions. To view the event page on Facebook, visit http://bit.ly/GPSF2017. If you are a graduate student TA or teacher, we ask that you please spread the word to your students! Please note that we are also looking for some graduate student volunteers for this event. As always, volunteering for a GSA event gets you free admission to one Beer & Wine Social. Sign up at bit.ly/GPSF2017-volunteers.

3. SASAKI MASTER PLAN VIEWING PARTY
Mon, Sept 25, 6:00-8:00pm, Surge 104A
The Graduate Student Assembly and the Graduate Representative to the Board of Visitors invite you to a viewing party for the Sasaki & Associates Master Plan. Come to Surge 104A for important updates this plan for the future of Virginia Tech’s campus environment. Pizza will be provided between 6pm and 6:30pm, and then the viewing will commence. We urge graduate students to attend, and to stay in the know about Master Plan updates — your voices are important to the future of our campus. And if you can’t be at Surge 104A on the 25th, you can live stream the Sasaki discussion at bit.ly/sept25-sasaki. This link will provide you with 360-degree viewing!

4. GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAININGS
Wednesday, Sep 27, 3:30 – 4:30pm and Friday, Oct 6 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room A
The Graduate Honor System is holding two trainings for faculty and student panelists in the coming weeks. Panelists are volunteers who review the evidence and sit on the hearing panels, as well as occasionally holding information sessions for academic departments. We are always in need of more people to join the honor system and be available for panels! If you are interested in getting involved, please join us. If there are questions, please e-mail ghs@vt.edu.

5. GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday, Sep 26, GLC Room B and Wednesday, Sep 27, GLC Room A, 4:00-6:00pm
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided, bring you own mug if you can.

6. COMMUNICATING YOUR RESEARCH: TALKING WITH THE PUBLIC
Wednesday, Sep 27 (Humanities), 10:00am – 12:00pm, Torgersen Hall 3080
Talking about our work and research? to people outside our discipline? is ?hard. In many instances, we have just a few minutes to talk about several years of work and the relevance and impact it has in our world. In these sessions, participants will be able to articulate a one-minute elevator speech about their work and how it can be customized to different audiences and channels. There will be one session focused on the Humanities (Sep 27) and another session focused on Science, Technology, Math, and Engineering (Oct 9). Both sessions will take place at Torg 3080 from 10:00am to 12:00pm. For registration, go to https://app.nli.tlos.vt.edu/.

7. WEEKLY GRADUATE CAREER ADVISING BEGINS THIS WEDNESDAY
Wednesday, Sep 27, 2:00-5:00pm, Info kiosk in GLC lobby
As you begin to prepare for your future beyond graduate school, meet with a representative from Career and Professional Development. No appointment is necessary. Be sure to bring your resume or CV, cover letter, and/or any job search questions you may have.

8. OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING (OPT) WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Sep 27, 5:30-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Mark your calendar for the OPT workshop that will walk you through the OPT application process, including eligibility requirements, timing of application and other important details. Presented by IGSS immigration advisors, this session is most relevant for international students who are planning to graduate this fall or early spring.

9. SASAKI MASTER PLAN TOWN HALL
Wed, Sept 27, 6:30-8:00pm, New Classroom Building 206
For those that cannot make the viewing party — or for those who are interested in continued discussion surrounding the future of Virginia Tech’s campus environment — there will be a Town Hall Meeting at 6:30pm in the New Classroom Building. As with the Viewing Party, we urge graduate students to attend and make their voices heard. For more information on this meeting, and on the Master Plan in general, visit the VT News page at bit.ly/2x0DC15.

10. GLC CAFÉ – CUBICLE FARM TIRAMISU EDITION
Thursday, Sep 28, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

11. WHITE RACIAL SOCIALIZATION: FROM MIDDLE CHILDHOOD TO ADOLESCENCE
Thursday, Sep 28, 3:30–4:30pm, Pamplin Hall Room 31
Dr. Margaret Hagerman’s research focuses on how racial ideologies, or forms of racism, are socially reproduced, reworked, and resisted by young people. Her current book project explores how affluent, white children and youth come to understand race, racism, privilege, and inequality in the United States in the context of their families. Dr. Hagerman draws upon qualitative, youth-centered research methods including ethnography, in-depth interviews, and focus groups. Sponsored by the the Graduate School’s Office of Recruitment and Diversity Intiatives (ORDI). Contact Christian Matheis at matheisc@vt.edu for details.

12. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursday,  Sep 28, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

13. INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TAILGATE: register by 9/28
Saturday, Sep 30, 5:00-7:00pm, Graduate School Lawn
All members of Virginia Tech’s international community are invited to this community celebration before a home football game. Traditional tailgate food will be served. Hosted by the Cranwell International Center, Global Education Office, Graduate School, International Support Services, and Language and Culture Institute. Please complete this survey to register if you are planning to attend: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_doo6m4hFMIELbi5.
 
14. GLC HIKE TO TINKER CLIFFS
Sunday, Oct 1, 9:00am
Join the Graduate Fellows and other graduate students as they hike Tinker Cliffs, the third leg in the Triple Crown of great views of the Catawba Valley! Be advised, this hike is not easy going. You will encounter steep climbs and numerous switchbacks, so all hikers are encouraged to wear athletic shoes and bring lots of water. The hike is 7.7 miles round-trip and you should anticipate a hiking time of 4 hours. Space is limited, so complete this survey to register if you are planning to attend: https://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yqWuI03BGryM73. If you have any questions, e-mail Erik Fendik at ef@vt.edu.

Administrative Announcements

15. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO GLC PHOTO AND ART CONTEST – 1st posting
The Graduate School invites artistic and photo submissions by graduate students for display in the GLC.  The contest’s theme is "A Changing World."  Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student.  Submission deadline is Friday, October 20, 2017.  For more information, go to the following link: https://graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/glc-art-and-photo-contest.html.  The submission link will be up and running by the end of the week.

16. GRADUATE SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2017
The Grad School’s Fall 2017 Professional Development schedule is ready!  Details for the first session, “Navigating Graduate School: Setting Achievable Educational Goals,” is listed in the upcoming events below.  To see the full schedule, go to the link here.

17. BASIC NEEDS DRIVE FOR PUERTO RICO VICTIMS OF HURRICANE MARIA – 1st posting
A group of graduate students has organized a basic needs drive to ship much needed goods to Puerto Rico. Items will be transported from Blacksburg to Greesboro, NC where Caribex Worldwide has agreed to ship it to Puerto Rico for free. The item that will be most in need is drinking water. At this time, money is being collected to take to Greensboro Wednesday, Sep 27 for purchasing water which will be delivered to the shipping facility.  For more information contact martiles@vt.edu or kvelezr@vt.edu.

18. ON-CAMPUS FOOD PANTRY – 2nd posting
209 Manna Ministries is VT’s on-campus food pantry that provides food, toiletries, and school supplies to students. A donation-based pantry, there are opportunities for graduate students to hold a food drive, shop in the pantry, or volunteer. Located at 209 W Roanoke St on the 3rd floor, the hours are 4:00-6:30pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.  Find more information on Facebook or at www.209mannaministries.org.  Questions? Contact 209MannaVT@gmail.com.

19. C’MON, GET HAPPY! – 3rd posting
Join a Happiness group! These groups meet once a week for ten weeks to learn and practice happiness strategies. This is a great experience for graduate students whether you are struggling to find happiness or already consider yourself a relatively happy person. Date and time of group will be dependent on interested participant availability. If interested, please complete this form. Group meetings will start the week of Sep 18. Please contact Shelly Rasnick, Wellness Coordinator at rasnicks@vt.edu or 540-231-0620 with any questions.

20. WHAT’S COOKIN’? – 3rd posting
Sign up for a cooking class through VT Recreational Sports Wellness and learn easy and healthy recipes to try at home! Everyone gets to help cook at these classes and then we will try all the recipes we make. More information about the dates, time and prices can be found here! Sign up quickly, spots are limited. Please contact Shelly Rasnick, Wellness Coordinator at rasnicks@vt.edu or 540-231-0620 with any questions.

Jobs

21. HOURLY WAGE RESEARCH ASSISTANT FOR NIH-FUNDED PROJECT – 1st posting
An hourly wage research assistant position is available to assist on an NIH-funded project examining heat exposure in urban and rural communities in Alabama. This approximately 15 hr. per week position will run from Nov 1, 2017 – Jun 30, 2018, paying $17.00 per hour. Job responsibilities include data organization, data preparation, and help with statistical analysis of data collected; literature search and tabular summary on heat exposure metrics and heat-air pollution-health epidemiology studies; help plan and develop agendas and survey instruments for workshops and presentation (written and oral) of findings to research group. Candidates will have excellent written communication and organizational skills; ability to pay attention to detail, work independently, and meet deadlines; basic statistical analysis skills with mixed effects (repeated measures) regression analysis experience preferred. This position could lead to a Graduate Research Assistantship. If you are interested, please email your cover letter and resume by Oct 15 to Julia Gohlke at jgohlke@vt.edu.

22. WATER POLO COACH – 2nd posting
The VT women’s club water polo team is in search of a coach for this academic year! This team of approximately 20 undergrads with varying water polo experience practices three times a week: Sundays 5-7pm and Monday/Wednesdays 8-10pm in War Memorial Pool. Practice is currently run by our four captains but someone out of the water with experience is needed to give guidance to improve. Please contact president, Brittany Henry (britth4@vt.edu), if you are interested or want more information.

Volunteers and research participants sought

23. FEMALE RUNNERS NEEDS FOR SYMMETRY STUDY – 1ST posting
The Granata Lab is recruiting female runners for a study looking at side-to-side symmetry. Participants much be able to complete a 4 mile outdoor run. This study requires two visits that are less than 1 hour. If you are interested in participating please contact us at: granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

24. PARTICIPANTS NEED FOR A WALKING AND RUNNING STUDY – 1st posting
The Granata Lab is recruiting participants for a short indoor walking and running study. The research session is expected to last approximately 45 minutes and involved 10 minutes of walking and running at various paces and inclines. If you are interested in participating please contact us at: granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.
 
25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STUDY – 3rd posting
The 3DI group is seeking volunteers to participate in a research study with virtual reality (VR) technologies. Our team is investigating how VR can help researchers to better understand complex scientific data. The project is supervised by Dr. Doug Bowman in Computer Science and will make use of state-of-the-art VR equipment. Participants will have 1 in 6 chances to receive a $40 giftcard. If you are interested in participating, please contact Wallace Lages at wlages@vt.edu for more details.

26. 12- TO 15-MONTH-OLD INFANTS NEEDED FOR A NEW STUDY – 3rd  posting                                                             
Beginning September 2017, the iLEAP Lab is recruiting 12- to 15-month-old infants for a new study!  We are interested in the effects of seeing either a geometric shape or a human female face on infants’ abilities to show preferences for certain kinds of speaking styles.  We will also ask mothers to fill out surveys on infants’ language skills, temperament, and social attention.  We offer $20 per family, free child care for older siblings, and convenient parking.  Please email iLEAP@vt.edu or call 540-231-3972 if interested.

Upcoming events:

RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTS: FROM TRASH TO CASH
Tuesday, Oct 3, 2017, 5:00-6:00pm, Museum, 2062 Derring Hall
Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. This month’s talk will discuss how Biotechnology, Engineering and Photosynthesis can change high-value chemicals production. The rate of discovery of new molecules with antibiotic activity is not fast enough to keep up with the rate of resistance development by microorganisms, creating a need for the dangerous use of stronger last-resort drugs to treat infections. At this talk, we will explore how Cyanobacteria, the oldest photosynthetic organisms on Earth could revolutionize the production of antibiotics and how our everyday trash could be used to make the entire production process much cheaper. Come for the talk and enjoy free ice cream!

NAVIGATING GRADUATE SCHOOL: SETTING ACHIEVABLE EDUCATIONAL GOALS
Wednesday, October 4, 4:00-5:00, GLC Room C
Professor Jennifer Sano-Franchini will guide a small group of students in developing achievable educational goals. Students will learn to express why they have chosen their current profession, how they plan to be successful in graduate school, and ultimately plan for a successful future beyond. Participants will be learn how to express their strengths and weaknesses through writing, and finish the session knowing a bit more about themselves. Register here.

NAVIGATING IMPOSTER SYNDROME DISCUSSION
Wednesday, Oct 4, 2017, 6:00 p.m., GLC Room B
Do you ever doubt your abilities? Do you feel an intense pressure to succeed and prove yourself? Do you ever feel like a fraud? Join the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) for a discussion on how to navigate imposter syndrome in graduate school! This discussion will be led by Dr. Julie Dunsmore (Psychology) and Dr. Gabriel Serna (Higher Education).

MEET THE CANDIDATES
Wednesday, Oct 4 2017, 6:30pm, GLC Auditorium
Graduate student Ryan Wesdock invites you to a candidate forum hosted by The Greens at Virginia Tech. The forum will feature local candidates for town council, mayor, and House of Delegates. Everyone is invited to attend. If you are interested in local politics, this is a great opportunity to be informed about what’s going on right in your backyard. Questions from the audience will be read, time permitting. Please email greensatvirginiatech@gmail.com for more information.
 
HISPANIC/LATINX CONNECT LUNCH
Thursday, Oct 5th, 12:00pm-1:00pm, Graduate Life Center, Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. This year’s lunch will be keynote by Dr. Luisa Havens, Vice President for Enrollment Management. Please RSVP by Sunday, October 1st through the link below: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3KSuqbLSYcXvuVn If you have any questions, contact Luisa Burgos at luisab93@vt.edu.

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

BREAKFAST WITH THE DEAN
Fri, Oct 6, 9:00-10:00am, Graduate Life Center (GLC) Room C
How’s your semester going so far? What are your thoughts about the graduate life experience here at Virginia Tech? Get some face-to-face time with Dr. Karen DePauw, Dean of the Graduate School, and share your thoughts with her and other students in the graduate community. Breakfast will be provided, and this event is free to all graduate students. RSVP at bit.ly/DeanBreakfast-Oct6.

GSA FALL BEER & WINE SOCIAL
Fri, Oct 6, 5:00-9:00pm, Lane Stadium South End Zone Club
Save the date! The Graduate Student Assembly is gearing up for an exciting Autumnal Beer & Wine Social in a brand new space: Lane Stadium. Tickets will be $12 ahead of time, and $15 at the door, and will come with a set amount of tastings. Please note that money for additional tastings beyond those that come with the tickets will go to hurricane relief efforts. Stay tuned for more information on how and where you can obtain tickets.

OCTOBER PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Oct 11, 12:00pm, GLC Room F
No such thing as a free lunch?… Sure there is. As always, significant others and children are welcome, but it is limited to the first 50 people who RSVP AT http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-october2. Also, we need your help! We want to ensure these events are relevant and engaging. Please help as we seek to find Parent Support luncheon speakers whose messages are tailored to what you feel is pertinent to your situation. You can access the two-question survey here https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JJTRHCR .

Events

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 9/18/2017
– Career Advising: returning 9/27
– GTA Walk-In Advising: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Room A
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITY
Monday, Sep 18, 7:00-8:00pm, Squires 217
The Greens at Virginia Tech is a brand new student organization fighting to bring the Green Party values of Social Justice, Grassroots Democracy, Peace, and Ecological Wisdom to VT and Blacksburg. We are committed citizens, activists, and regular people who are tired of corruption, bigotry, and exploitation and are looking for a better way. If you agree, come by our weekly meetings every Monday from 7:00-8:00pm in Squires 217. Find out how you can make a difference in your community, right now. For more info, please contact our chair at wryan2@vt.edu, join us on Gobblerconnect (https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/vtgreens), friend us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290569994657392), or follow us on Twitter (@GreensatVT)

3. GTA WALK-IN ADVISING
Tuesday, Sep 19 and Wednesday, Sep 20, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Room A
Do you have questions about teaching or grading? Are you experiencing a challenge in the classroom that you don’t know how to resolve? Drop by to chat, share experiences, and get advice from Fellows of the Graduate Academy for Teaching Excellence. Light refreshments will be provided, bring you own mug if you can.

4. GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Sep 20, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Feeling stressed out? Anxious or overwhelmed? You’re in good company! A great tool for dealing with how you’re feeling is Mindfulness, a state of active, open attention on the present. observing your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them good or bad. Instead of letting your life pass you by, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experience. Meets every Wednesday starting Sep 20. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

5. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Sep 21, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

6. GSA GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING
Thurs, Sept 21, 5:30-7:00pm, Graduate Life Center (GLC) Multipurpose Room
Come to our first Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) General Assembly Meeting of the 2017-18 Academic Year! At these meetings, you’ll hear about policies affecting graduate students within (and outside of) the university, you’ll obtain a better understanding of how university governance works, AND you’ll meet graduate students outside of your home department(s). Remember, you do not have to be a departmental delegate to attend a General Assembly Meeting, and we encourage all graduate students to attend! In order to cast a vote, however, you must be a delegate.

7. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursday,  Sep 21, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

8A. STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Friday, Sep 22, 2:00-3:00pm in GLC Room C.
Presented by the Cook Counseling Center specifically for graduate students, this program helps identify stressors in your life and equip you with some techniques and resources to control and reduce stress. If interested in attending, sign up at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_81fn8QpIl7B4pM1.

8. INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: GERMANY
Friday, Sep 22, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by The German Culture Club. For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

9. JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION OF DURGA PUJA
Sunday, Sep 24, 12:00-9:00pm, Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center
The Bengali Students’ Association, Indian Students’ Association, and Society of Indian Americans, cordially invite you to a day of fun, festivities, food, dance and music on the occasion of Durga Puja, a major Indian festival. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and love over hate. The worship ceremony will be followed by ‘prasad’ (distribution of traditional bengali platter), a cultural program, a sumptuous Indian dinner (tickets available at – www.bengali.org.vt.edu) catered by Taaza Roanoke and a Gaarba dance night where the young and old come together on the beats of vibrant Indian music. For more info email suchi@vt.edu.

Administrative Announcements

10. ON-CAMPUS FOOD PANTRY
209 Manna Ministries is VT’s on-campus food pantry that provides food, toiletries, and school supplies to students. A donation-based pantry, there are opportunities to hold a food drive, shop in the pantry, or volunteer. Located at 209 W Roanoke St on the 3rd floor, the hours are 4:00-6:30pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.  Find more information on Facebook or at www.209mannaministries.org.  Questions? Contact 209MannaVT@gmail.com.

11. C’MON, GET HAPPY! – 2nd posting
Join a Happiness group! These groups meet once a week for ten weeks to learn and practice happiness strategies. This is a great experience whether you are struggling to find happiness or already consider yourself a relatively happy person. Date and time of group will be dependent on interested participant availability. If interested, please complete this form. Group meetings will start the week of Sep 18. Please contact Shelly Rasnick, Wellness Coordinator at rasnicks@vt.edu or 540-231-0620 with any questions.

12. WHAT’S COOKIN’? – 2nd posting
Sign up for a cooking class through VT Recreational Sports Wellness and learn easy and healthy recipes to try at home! Everyone gets to help cook at these classes and then we will try all the recipes we make. More information about the dates, time and prices can be found here! Sign up quickly, spots are limited. Please contact Shelly Rasnick, Wellness Coordinator at rasnicks@vt.edu or 540-231-0620 with any questions.

13. INTERVARSITY GRAD CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDIES – 3rd posting
Starting Tuesday, Sep 5 at various locations, our small group Bible studies meet Tuesday-Thursday evenings in grad students’ homes and the GLC. Get connected with a group of friends on a journey of faith through grad school! See a list of current groups: http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/small-groups/ or contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) for more information.

14. RAFFLE TO COLLECT FUNDS FOR L.I.F.E. HOUSTON – 3rd posting
The Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) is holding a raffle to collect funds for L.I.F.E. Houston to support women and children affected by Hurricane Harvey.  Everyone who buys a raffle ticket will be entered for a chance to win 1 of 2 Amazon Echo Dots.  Contact Taylor Bradley, tnb25@vt.edu, for information on how to purchase tickets.  

15. DISABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY IN THE CLASSROOM (NLI OFFERING) – 3rd posting
Martina Svyantek and Dr. Ashley Shew will be leading a faculty inquiry group through Networked Learning Initiatives (NLI) this fall titled "Disability and Accessibility in the Classroom.” These sessions are geared towards faculty, though graduate students (especially GTAs) are also allowed to sign-up and participate. The in-person meetings (4 sessions, 10 am-1pm) will occur on the following Wednesdays this fall: September 6 and 20, Oct 4 and 18. Each session will cover different material. To enroll in this NLI Faculty Inquiry group, please go to NLI calendar and sign-up. You can direct questions about the sessions to Martina Svyantek at svyantek@vt.edu or disability@vt.edu.

16. NEW! MULTILINGUAL SERVICES AND SPEAKING SUPPORT SERVICES – 3rd posting
Did you know that the Writing Center offers support in conversational English, as well as other languages? To access all of our services, see our website https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html.  Select "Make an appointment" and register for an account.  It’s free! Also, Language volunteers wanted! See our website above and look under "Additional Services" for details about participation.

17. VT OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SEEKS BOARD MEMBERS – 3rd posting
The VT Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is seeking members for their Student Advisory Board. The board offers opportunities to provide feedback on emergency preparedness campaigns to OEM, design and implement emergency preparedness campaigns, and participate in OEM outreach for campus events. Meetings are every other Tuesday 6:00-8:00 pm starting Sep 12 in the Public Safety Building behind Lane Stadium. The remaining meeting dates for the fall semester are Sep 26, Oct 10, Oct 24, Nov 7, and Nov 28. Spring meeting dates will be distributed later in the year. Direct any questions to the chair of the board, Jordan Schoeneberger, at sjordan6@vt.edu. To join, go to: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7NFKgHV1A9C9ICV.

Jobs

18. WATER POLO COACH
The VT women’s club water polo team is in search of a coach for this academic year! This team of approximately 20 undergrads with varying water polo experience practices three times a week: Sundays 5-7pm and Monday/Wednesdays 8-10pm in War Memorial Pool. Practice is currently run by our four captains but someone out of the water with experience is needed to give guidance to improve. Please contact president, Brittany Henry (britth4@vt.edu), if you are interested or want more information.

19. Oops – position closed
 
20. PROGRAM CHAIRS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY – 3rd posting
The GSA is currently accepting applications for this year’s program chairs. Responsibilities include implementing the GSA’s programs, attending board and delegate meetings, and volunteering at GSA-sponsored events. Seeking applicants with excellent time management and multi-tasking skills; good communication and writing skills; and creative problem-solving skills. This year, we are hiring a chair to manage our Travel Fund Program, our Graduate Research and Development Program, and our annual Research Symposium (2 chairs). Chairs will work under the supervision of the Executive Board. For more information on each position, visit bit.ly/GSAProgramChairs1718. To apply, email your CV, the position for which you are applying, and a brief (1 page or less) letter of interest in Word format to Joshua Slaughenhoupt at jslaugh@vt.edu. Applications are due on Friday, September 22nd, at 5:00pm.

21. PART-TIME GA POSITION IN SOCIAL SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH – 3rd posting
The research team for “Cultivating an Ethical STEM Culture through an Integrated Undergraduate General Education” seeks a PT graduate assistant with competencies in social scientific research to participate in project. Students from any program or department will be considered, but the ideal student will be at least two years into their studies and have knowledge of survey methodology, ethics, and pedagogy, as well as an undergraduate background in a STEM discipline. Will work with all project members during periods of the project. Will work most closely with Dr. Sara Jordan (Center for Public Administration & Policy), Dr. Diana Biaraktarova, (Dept. of Engineering Education), and/or Dr. Stephen Biscotte (Office of the Provost). Key tasks include: Identifying sampling frames for student and faculty surveys; development of survey instrument language and identification of survey platforms (e.g., Web or App based); monitoring survey data acquisition; development of participant observation strategies; note taking during participant observations of courses; and conducting literature reviews. 10 hrs/wk for Fall 2017, with possible continuation and migration to full time in subsequent semesters. Particular periods of the project will require more intensive work and hours than others. If interested, send a CV and a cover letter describing how previous work has met key tasks, how background meets requirements, and how current or planned research would be helped along by working with this research team to: srjordan@vt.edu.

Volunteers and research participants sought
 
23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STUDY – 2nd posting
The 3DI group is seeking volunteers to participate in a research study with virtual reality (VR) technologies. Our team is investigating how VR can help researchers to better understand complex scientific data. The project is supervised by Dr. Doug Bowman in Computer Science and will make use of state-of-the-art VR equipment. Participants will have 1 in 6 chances to receive a $40 giftcard. If you are interested in participating, please contact Wallace Lages at wlages@vt.edu for more details.

24. 12- TO 15-MONTH-OLD INFANTS NEEDED FOR A NEW STUDY – 2nd posting
Beginning September 2017, the iLEAP Lab is recruiting 12- to 15-month-old infants for a new study!  We are interested in the effects of seeing either a geometric shape or a human female face on infants’ abilities to show preferences for certain kinds of speaking styles.  We will also ask mothers to fill out surveys on infants’ language skills, temperament, and social attention.  We offer $20 per family, free child care for older siblings, and convenient parking.  Please email iLEAP@vt.edu or call 540-231-3972 if interested.

25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: MIDDLE CHILDHOOD EMOTION REGULATION STUDY –3rd posting
The C.A.P. Lab in the Psychology Department at Virginia Tech is conducting a new study focusing on children’s ability to learn how to regulate their emotions and its impact on memory. During this visit, your child will watch some short video clips, play some word and computer games.  In addition to these games, we are interested in collecting information about the physiological components of these abilities. Your child will wear a stretchy EEG cap to collect brain wave activity and ECG electrodes to collect heart rate activity. The visit should last about 1.5 hours. Participants must be 9-10 years old, born after a full-term pregnancy, weighed at least 6 pounds at birth, and currently healthy.  We offer a $20 Target gift card as compensation for parents and a toy for children, and we can provide childcare for siblings.  If you are interested in this study, contact Tatiana Garcia-Meza by research lab phone 540-231-2320 or email tgarcia@vt.edu.

26. VOLUNTEERS FOR OSTEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT AND MANIPULATION STUDY – 3rd posting
The Kevin P. Granata Lab is seeking volunteers for a study examining osteopathic assessment and manipulation. Participation in the study would include an osteopathic assessment and a biomechanical assessment; osteopathic manipulation and a second biomechanical assessment may also be included in participation. Volunteers must be between 18 and 35 years of age and have no past or current lower extremity injuries that required medical care. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, please contact Cherice Hughes-Oliver at granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

27. PARTICIPANTS FOR MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION STUDY – 3rd posting
Are you chronically stressed? The Virginia Tech Department of Psychology is conducting a study investigating the effectiveness of a weekly mindfulness meditation group for people who experience chronic stress. Must be Ages 18-55 and able to attend 8 weekly group meetings (Wed 9:00-11:00am). Learn coping mechanisms and mindfulness meditation. No experience required. More information at www.scanlab.org/mbsr.pdf. If interested in participating, please e-mail hokiemindfulness@gmail.com.

Upcoming events:

GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL FAIR
Monday, Sep 25, 11:30am-1:30pm, Floor 2 of Squires Student Center
This annual Graduate and Professional School Fair (GPSF), hosted by the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA), is for undergraduate and Master’s students looking to continue their schooling in the graduate and/or professional realm. Come to Floor 2 of the Squires Student Center for an opportunity to have face-to-face meetings with recruiters from over 120 different graduate and professional programs from all over the US — and from outside of the US as well. The fair will run from 11:30am-1:30pm, and is FREE for all students. For a complete list of visiting schools and programs, visit http://bit.ly/GPSF2017-institutions. To view the event page on Facebook, visit http://bit.ly/GPSF2017. If you are a graduate student TA or teacher, we ask that you please spread the word to your students! Please note that we are also looking for some graduate student volunteers for this event. As always, volunteering for a GSA event gets you free admission to one Beer & Wine Social. Sign up at bit.ly/GPSF2017-volunteers.

SASAKI MASTER PLAN VIEWING PARTY
Mon, Sept 25, 6:00-8:00pm, Surge 104A
The Graduate Student Assembly and the Graduate Representative to the Board of Visitors invite you to a viewing party for the Sasaki & Associates Master Plan. Come to Surge 104A for important updates this plan for the future of Virginia Tech’s campus environment. Pizza will be provided between 6pm and 6:30pm, and then the viewing will commence. We urge graduate students to attend, and to stay in the know about Master Plan updates — your voices are important to the future of our campus.

COMMUNICATING YOUR RESEARCH: TALKING WITH THE PUBLIC
Wednesday, Sep 27 (Humanities), 10:00am – 12:00pm, Torgersen Hall 3080
Talking about our work and research? to people outside our discipline? is ?hard. In many instances, we have just a few minutes to talk about several years of work and the relevance and impact it has in our world. In these sessions, participants will be able to articulate a one-minute elevator speech about their work and how it can be customized to different audiences and channels. There will be one session focused on the Humanities (Sep 27) and another session focused on Science, Technology, Math, and Engineering (Oct 9). Both sessions will take place at Torg 3080 from 10:00am to 12:00pm. For registration, go to https://app.nli.tlos.vt.edu/.

SASAKI MASTER PLAN TOWN HALL
Wed, Sept 27, 6:30-8:00pm, New Classroom Building 206
For those that cannot make the viewing party — or for those who are interested in continued discussion surrounding the future of Virginia Tech’s campus environment — there will be a Town Hall Meeting at 6:30pm in the New Classroom Building. As with the Viewing Party, we urge graduate students to attend and make their voices heard. For more information on this meeting, and on the Master Plan in general, visit the VT News page at bit.ly/2x0DC15.

GLC HIKE TO TINKER CLIFFS
Sunday, Oct 1, 9:00am
Join the Graduate Fellows and other graduate students as they hike Tinker Cliffs, the third leg in the Triple Crown of great views of the Catawba Valley! Be advised, this hike is not easy going. You will encounter steep climbs and numerous switchbacks, so all hikers are encouraged to wear athletic shoes and bring lots of water. The hike is 7.7 miles round-trip and you should anticipate a hiking time of 4 hours. Space is limited, so complete this survey to register if you are planning to attend: https://survey.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9yqWuI03BGryM73. If you have any questions, e-mail Erik Fendik at ef@vt.edu.

NAVIGATING IMPOSTER SYNDROME DISCUSSION
Wednesday, Oct 4, 2017, 6:00 p.m., GLC Room B
Do you ever doubt your abilities? Do you feel an intense pressure to succeed and prove yourself? Do you ever feel like a fraud? Join the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) for a discussion on how to navigate imposter syndrome in graduate school! This discussion will be led by Dr. Julie Dunsmore (Psychology) and Dr. Gabriel Serna (Higher Education).
 
HISPANIC/LATINX CONNECT LUNCH
Thursday, Oct 5th, 12:00pm-1:00pm, Graduate Life Center, Room F
Join the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives for lunch in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Come meet faculty, staff and students from all over while enjoying some delicious free food! RSVP Link coming soon. All are welcome to attend! Questions? Contact Luisa at luisab93@vt.edu.

GSA FALL BEER & WINE SOCIAL
Fri, Oct 6, 5:00-9:00pm, Lane Stadium South End Zone Club
Save the date! The Graduate Student Assembly is gearing up for an exciting Autumnal Beer & Wine Social in a brand new space: Lane Stadium. Stay tuned for ticket sales and pricing info, a Facebook event page, and more information on food, drink, and music.

Events

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 8/28/2017
– Career Advising: returning 9/27
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO CLUB AT VIRGINIA TECH — OPEN WORKOUT
Monday, Sep 11, 8:00-9:00pm, 915 Hethwood Blvd., Blacksburg
Want to do something different this semester? Now’s your chance! The Olympic Taekwondo Club is holding an open workout for anyone who is interested in trying taekwondo. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Casey Denham at cldenham@vt.edu.

3. CURRENT ISSUES AND DIVERSITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION
Tuesday, Sep 12, 1:30-3:00pm, Assembly Hall, Holtzman Alumni Center
The Office for Inclusion and Diversity is pleased to host Marybeth Gasman, Ph.D., Judith & Howard Berkowitz Professor of Education and Director of the Penn Center for Minority-Serving Institutions at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Gasman will speak on Current Issues and Diversity in Higher Education. Because space is limited to 160 participants, Inclusive VT Representatives are offered priority registration. Please use this link to reserve a seat. https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3aqijbZ70JzYPaJ. Here is a link to all Inclusive VT Week events: http://inclusive.vt.edu/InclusiveVTWeekFall2017.html 

4. RESEARCH A LA MODE: SEARCHING FOR AN ALTERNATIVE TO ANIMAL TESTING
Tuesday, Sep 12, 5:00-6:00 pm, Museum, 2062 Derring Hall
Currently, large portions of life science research ‘need’ living animals, usually a mouse, rat, or rabbit. This research can be anything from how mascara will react with the eye, to how a cancer drug affects a tumor, to how the immune system functions during infection. Regardless of the question, animals are being manipulated for human benefit. Ellen Garcia, a PhD student in the Biology Dept. is working to contribute an alternative method for testing chemical safety and convince the community that there are better ways to study toxicology. Come to her presentation on the rationale and evidence for ‘her new, cell-division focused, animal alternative testing approach. Come for the talk and stay for free ice cream!

5. PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Sep 13, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Join other graduate student parents, spouses, and partners at this free lunch sponsored by the Graduate School. Preschoolers are welcome to join the group. A topic relevant to parenting while in school will be discussed. Space is limited and spots fill up quickly, so be sure to signup soon at this link: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-september2

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Sep 14, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow grad students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

7. SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION AT VT LIBRARIES
Thursday, Sep 14, 5:00-6:00 pm, Newman Library Room 207A
Learn about electronic thesis/dissertations, open educational resources, library publishing services, VTech Works and participate in an optional tour of Newman Library. Pizza and drinks will be provided. Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cN4UCKF5foJjyip

8. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE – Starting Thursday, Sep 14
Thursday,  Sep 14, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

9. "VIRGINIA TECH AFTER #CHARLOTTESVILLE" – A #STILLCONCERNEDVT FACULTY INITIATIVE
Thursday, Sep 14, 6:00-8:00pm, Owens Banquet Hall
FEATURED SPEAKERS: Students are strongly encouraged to attend this teach-in on recent events.1) The social construction of diversity and community engagement" – Dr. Sarah Ovink, Sociology; 2) "White nationalist appropriation of medieval symbols" – Dr. Matthew Gabriele, Religion & Culture; 3) "The First Amendment, free speech, and the ‘Unite the Right’ organizers" – Dr. Wornie Reed, Sociology.  Moderator: Dr. Carmen Gitre, History. Contact: Christian Matheis (matheisc@vt.edu). Sponsored by The Office of Inclusion and Diversity, The Graduate School.

10. WHAT HAVE I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO?
Friday, Sep 15, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
If you’re a new graduate student who has asked yourself this question, the Graduate School wants you to know that you are not alone! Meet fellow graduate students, new and returning, to talk about this exciting—and often overwhelming—life adventure. There will be pizza! If you plan on attending, be sure to sign-up at the following link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aWUQeoKnVQSbz37

Administrative Announcements

11. C’MON, GET HAPPY! – 1st posting
Join a Happiness group! These groups meet once a week for ten weeks to learn and practice happiness strategies. This is a great experience whether you are struggling to find happiness or already consider yourself a relatively happy person. Date and time of group will be dependent on interested participant availability. If interested, please complete this form. Group meetings will start the week of Sep 18. Please contact Shelly Rasnick, Wellness Coordinator at rasnicks@vt.edu or 540-231-0620 with any questions.

12. WHAT’S COOKIN’? – 1st posting
Sign up for a cooking class through VT Recreational Sports Wellness and learn easy and healthy recipes to try at home! Everyone gets to help cook at these classes and then we will try all the recipes we make. More information about the dates, time and prices can be found here! Sign up quickly, spots are limited. Please contact Shelly Rasnick, Wellness Coordinator at rasnicks@vt.edu or 540-231-0620 with any questions.

13. INTERVARSITY GRAD CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDIES – 2nd posting
Starting Tuesday, Sep 5 at various locations, our small group Bible studies meet Tuesday-Thursday evenings in grad students’ homes and the GLC. Get connected with a group of friends on a journey of faith through grad school! See a list of current groups: http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/small-groups/ or contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) for more information.

14. RAFFLE TO COLLECT FUNDS FOR L.I.F.E. HOUSTON – 2nd posting
The Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) is holding a raffle to collect funds for L.I.F.E. Houston to support women and children affected by Hurricane Harvey.  Everyone who buys a raffle ticket will be entered for a chance to win 1 of 2 Amazon Echo Dots.  Contact Taylor Bradley, tnb25@vt.edu, for information on how to purchase tickets.  

15. DISABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY IN THE CLASSROOM (NLI OFFERING) – 2nd posting
Martina Svyantek and Dr. Ashley Shew will be leading a faculty inquiry group through Networked Learning Initiatives (NLI) this fall titled "Disability and Accessibility in the Classroom.” These sessions are geared towards faculty, though graduate students (especially GTAs) are also allowed to sign-up and participate. The in-person meetings (4 sessions, 10 am-1pm) will occur on the following Wednesdays this fall: September 6 and 20, Oct 4 and 18. Each session will cover different material. To enroll in this NLI Faculty Inquiry group, please go to NLI calendar and sign-up. You can direct questions about the sessions to Martina Svyantek at svyantek@vt.edu or disability@vt.edu.

16. NEW! MULTILINGUAL SERVICES AND SPEAKING SUPPORT SERVICES – 2nd posting
Did you know that the Writing Center offers support in conversational English, as well as other languages? To access all of our services, see our website https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html.  Select "Make an appointment" and register for an account.  It’s free! Also, Language volunteers wanted! See our website above and look under "Additional Services" for details about participation.

17. VT OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SEEKS BOARD MEMBERS – 2nd posting
The VT Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is seeking members for their Student Advisory Board. The board offers opportunities to provide feedback on emergency preparedness campaigns to OEM, design and implement emergency preparedness campaigns, and participate in OEM outreach for campus events. Meetings are every other Tuesday 6:00-8:00 pm starting Sep 12 in the Public Safety Building behind Lane Stadium. The remaining meeting dates for the fall semester are Sep 26, Oct 10, Oct 24, Nov 7, and Nov 28. Spring meeting dates will be distributed later in the year. Direct any questions to the chair of the board, Jordan Schoeneberger, at sjordan6@vt.edu. To join, go to: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7NFKgHV1A9C9ICV.

18. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE (VTGrATE) CALL FOR MEMBERSHIP – 3rd posting
The Academy for Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) Excellence welcomes applications for Member, Associate, and Fellow in its learning community. VTGrATE provides advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies and provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to all graduate students at all VT campuses. For more info or to apply: http://vtgrate.org/membership/application-and-review/. Applications due Sat., Sep 16, 2017. Questions? Contact Michelle Soledad soledadmm@vt.edu.

Jobs

19. WAGE POSITION OPENING IN THE GLC/GRADUATE SCHOOL – 1st posting
Responsible for managing the digital sign, including content development and scheduling, screen and software maintenance, website maintenance, and communication and coordination with Grad School and GLC Service Desk staff. Must be FT grad student, have experience with any of the following software applications: web content management software, Macromedia Flash, Photoshop, MS PP, MS Paint, Samsung MagicNet Pro, flash converters. Preference will be given for: at least one semester of previous VT enrollment; web maintenance experience; knowledge of services, programs and events offered in the GLC. Must possess excellent communication skills and be able to work independently. Submit cover letter and resume to grads@vt.edu by Sep 15.
 
20. PROGRAM CHAIRS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY – 2nd posting
The GSA is currently accepting applications for this year’s program chairs. Responsibilities include implementing the GSA’s programs, attending board and delegate meetings, and volunteering at GSA-sponsored events. Seeking applicants with excellent time management and multi-tasking skills; good communication and writing skills; and creative problem-solving skills. This year, we are hiring a chair to manage our Travel Fund Program, our Graduate Research and Development Program, and our annual Research Symposium (2 chairs). Chairs will work under the supervision of the Executive Board. For more information on each position, visit bit.ly/GSAProgramChairs1718. To apply, email your CV, the position for which you are applying, and a brief (1 page or less) letter of interest in Word format to Joshua Slaughenhoupt at jslaugh@vt.edu. Applications are due on Friday, September 15th, at 5:00pm.

21. PART-TIME GA POSITION IN SOCIAL SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH – 2nd posting
The research team for “Cultivating an Ethical STEM Culture through an Integrated Undergraduate General Education” seeks a PT graduate assistant with competencies in social scientific research to participate in project. Students from any program or department will be considered, but the ideal student will be at least two years into their studies and have knowledge of survey methodology, ethics, and pedagogy, as well as an undergraduate background in a STEM discipline. Will work with all project members during periods of the project. Will work most closely with Dr. Sara Jordan (Center for Public Administration & Policy), Dr. Diana Biaraktarova, (Dept. of Engineering Education), and/or Dr. Stephen Biscotte (Office of the Provost). Key tasks include: Identifying sampling frames for student and faculty surveys; development of survey instrument language and identification of survey platforms (e.g., Web or App based); monitoring survey data acquisition; development of participant observation strategies; note taking during participant observations of courses; and conducting literature reviews. 10 hrs/wk for Fall 2017, with possible continuation and migration to full time in subsequent semesters. Particular periods of the project will require more intensive work and hours than others. If interested, send a CV and a cover letter describing how previous work has met key tasks, how background meets requirements, and how current or planned research would be helped along by working with this research team to: srjordan@vt.edu.

22. GRA OPENING FOR A GIS PROGRAMMER/ANALYST – 3rd posting
The Enterprise GIS units of Virginia Tech’s central IT organization has an opening for a full-time GRA (20 hr/wk) position, beginning Fall 2017 and continuing for a full year (through August 2018).  Position requires a highly-motivated graduate student with GIS programming, GIS analysis and/or web design skills to support a variety of projects in a technical team environment, using an evolving set of best-practice tools, libraries and techniques. Tasks include developing scripts to automate GIS data management and server administration tasks; performing mapping and analysis tasks; and developing and maintaining GIS-enabled web applications. Experience with Python programming, Tools and APIs related to the ESRI ArcGIS platform required. If interested, forward a current resume and cover letter to egisjobs@bev.vt.edu.

Volunteers and research participants sought
 
23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STUDY – 1st posting
The 3DI group is seeking volunteers to participate in a research study with virtual reality (VR) technologies. Our team is investigating how VR can help researchers to better understand complex scientific data. The project is supervised by Dr. Doug Bowman in Computer Science and will make use of state-of-the-art VR equipment. Participants will have 1 in 6 chances to receive a $40 giftcard. If you are interested in participating, please contact Wallace Lages at wlages@vt.edu for more details.

24. 12- TO 15-MONTH-OLD INFANTS NEEDED FOR A NEW STUDY – 1st posting
Beginning September 2017, the iLEAP Lab is recruiting 12- to 15-month-old infants for a new study!  We are interested in the effects of seeing either a geometric shape or a human female face on infants’ abilities to show preferences for certain kinds of speaking styles.  We will also ask mothers to fill out surveys on infants’ language skills, temperament, and social attention.  We offer $20 per family, free child care for older siblings, and convenient parking.  Please email iLEAP@vt.edu or call 540-231-3972 if interested.

25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: MIDDLE CHILDHOOD EMOTION REGULATION STUDY –2nd posting
The C.A.P. Lab in the Psychology Department at Virginia Tech is conducting a new study focusing on children’s ability to learn how to regulate their emotions and its impact on memory. During this visit, your child will watch some short video clips, play some word and computer games.  In addition to these games, we are interested in collecting information about the physiological components of these abilities. Your child will wear a stretchy EEG cap to collect brain wave activity and ECG electrodes to collect heart rate activity. The visit should last about 1.5 hours. Participants must be 9-10 years old, born after a full-term pregnancy, weighed at least 6 pounds at birth, and currently healthy.  We offer a $20 Target gift card as compensation for parents and a toy for children, and we can provide childcare for siblings.  If you are interested in this study, contact Tatiana Garcia-Meza by research lab phone 540-231-2320 or email tgarcia@vt.edu.

26. VOLUNTEERS FOR OSTEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT AND MANIPULATION STUDY – 2nd posting
The Kevin P. Granata Lab is seeking volunteers for a study examining osteopathic assessment and manipulation. Participation in the study would include an osteopathic assessment and a biomechanical assessment; osteopathic manipulation and a second biomechanical assessment may also be included in participation. Volunteers must be between 18 and 35 years of age and have no past or current lower extremity injuries that required medical care. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, please contact Cherice Hughes-Oliver at granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

27. PARTICIPANTS FOR MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION STUDY – 2nd posting
Are you chronically stressed? The Virginia Tech Department of Psychology is conducting a study investigating the effectiveness of a weekly mindfulness meditation group for people who experience chronic stress. Must be Ages 18-55 and able to attend 8 weekly group meetings (Wed 9:00-11:00am). Learn coping mechanisms and mindfulness meditation. No experience required. More information at www.scanlab.org/mbsr.pdf. If interested in participating, please e-mail hokiemindfulness@gmail.com.

Upcoming events:

POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITY
Monday, Sep 18, 7:00-8:00pm, Squires 217
The Greens at Virginia Tech is a brand new student organization fighting to bring the Green Party values of Social Justice, Grassroots Democracy, Peace, and Ecological Wisdom to VT and Blacksburg. We are committed citizens, activists, and regular people who are tired of corruption, bigotry, and exploitation and are looking for a better way. If you agree, come by our weekly meetings every Monday from 7:00-8:00pm in Squires 217. Find out how you can make a difference in your community, right now. For more info, please contact our chair at wryan2@vt.edu, join us on Gobblerconnect (https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/vtgreens), friend us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/290569994657392), or follow us on Twitter (@GreensatVT).

GRAD MINDFULNESS
Wednesday, Sep 20, 11:00-11:30am, 5071 Derring Hall
Feeling stressed out? Anxious or overwhelmed? You’re in good company! A great tool for dealing with how you’re feeling is Mindfulness, a state of active, open attention on the present. observing your thoughts and feelings from a distance, without judging them good or bad. Instead of letting your life pass you by, mindfulness means living in the moment and awakening to experience. Meets every Wednesday starting Sep 20. At each meeting there will be a short guided mindfulness exercise followed by time to practice on your own. You don’t need to stay for the whole time. Feel free to just drop in, just take care to not disturb others.  Here is a link to a cool free mindfulness app! Email lashley@vt.edu with any questions.

INTERNATIONAL CAFÉ HOUR: GERMANY
Friday, Sep 22, 4:00-5:30pm, Deet’s Place, Dietrick Dining Center
The International Café Hour is an opportunity for all to engage in conversations, create friendships, share their culture, and to connect with the VT community in a casual and comfortable environment. The program is designed to be both social and educational so join us. This program is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect and learn across cultures! This month’s café hour is sponsored by The German Culture Club. For more info, see our webpage: International Café Hour.

JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION OF DURGA PUJA
Sunday, Sep 24, 12:00-9:00pm, Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center
The Bengali Students’ Association, Indian Students’ Association, and Society of Indian Americans, cordially invite you to a day of fun, festivities, food, dance and music on the occasion of Durga Puja, a major Indian festival. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and love over hate. The worship ceremony will be followed by ‘prasad’ (distribution of traditional bengali platter), a cultural program, a sumptuous Indian dinner (tickets available at – www.bengali.org.vt.edu) catered by Taaza Roanoke and a Gaarba dance night where the young and old come together on the beats of vibrant Indian music. For more info email suchi@vt.edu.

GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL FAIR
Monday, Sep 25, 11:30am-1:30pm, Floor 2 of Squires Student Center
This annual Graduate and Professional School Fair (GPSF), hosted by the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA), is for undergraduate and Master’s students looking to continue their schooling in the graduate and/or professional realm. Come to Floor 2 of the Squires Student Center for an opportunity to have face-to-face meetings with recruiters from over 120 different graduate and professional programs from all over the US — and from outside of the US as well. The fair will run from 11:30am-1:30pm, and is FREE for all students. For a complete list of visiting schools and programs, visit http://bit.ly/GPSF2017-institutions. To view the event page on Facebook, visit http://bit.ly/GPSF2017. If you are a graduates student TA or teacher, we ask that you please spread the word to your students!

1. WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – last updated 8/28/2017
– Career Advising: returning 9/27
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– Graduate School hours: MTThF 8:00-5:00pm, W 9:30-5
– Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-4:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm Room 120
– Writing assistance: reserve appointment at https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html

2. INTERVIEWING SKILLS SEMINAR
Tuesday, Sep 5, 4:15-5:15pm, GLC Room F
Be prepared for initial screening interviews as well as on-site interviews. This seminar addresses interviewing basics, employer expectations, and insights into behavioral interviews. https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cN4UCKF5foJjyip

3. GROCERY BINGO
Wednesday, Sep 6, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room B
Compete against other graduate students in Bingo for a chance to with free grocery items. https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5p6QwbZzN48cN5X

4. PLACES & SPACES: MAPPING SCIENCE EXHIBIT – OPENING LECTURE
Thursday, Sep 7, 10:00am, Newman Library 4th floor
The University Libraries are hosting the Places & Spaces: Mapping Science exhibit on the 4th floor of Newman Library from now through November 16, 2017. Dr. Katy Börner, director of the Cyberinfrastructure for Network Science Center at Indiana University, will present the opening lecture at 10:00am. Brunch-type foods will be provided. Please RSVP at https://goo.gl/forms/ovDyYtOVthon58At2 so we can have enough food and coffee for all. The exhibit, on Newman Library 4th floor now through Nov 16, 2017, is a multimedia visual and sensory extravaganza of data visualization and design that consists of over 100 exciting static and interactive visualizations ranging from the late 15th Century to the present. If you have questions, or would like to explore the exhibit with one of your courses, please email us at datavizstudio@vt.edu.

5. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Aug 31, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of fellow gra students and Grad School staff; network, socialize, relax! Bring your own mug if you can.

6. ACCESSING MATERIALS AT THE LIBRARIES
Thursday, Sep 7, 5:00-6:00pm, Newman Library 207A
Library staff will discuss finding and checking out books, lending technology, how to do an interlibrary loan, and printing tips. Pizza and drinks provided. Sign up at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cN4UCKF5foJjyip

7. CASCADES HIKE & PICNIC LUNCH
Saturday, Sep 9, 9:00am – Meet outside GLC lobby to carpool
Enjoy a leisurely hike to a local waterfall followed by a picnic lunch! Anyone is welcome, but space is limited, so please register here: bit.ly/cascades17. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

8. BLACK GRADUATE STUDENT COMMUNITY WELCOME BACK COOK OUT – RESCHEDULED!!!!
Saturday, Sep 9, 4:00-dusk, Bburg Municipal Park, Shelter II
Celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of the semester with BGSO.  Eat, play some games, vibe to the music and bask in the melinated greatness of the VT Black graduate student community.  This is a family friendly event.  If you would like to be added to the BGSO listserv and/or become involved with BGSO, email to Cheryl Montgomery at clmontgo@vt.edu w/ "BGSO" in the subject.

9. LEARN ABOUT THE BOOK OF MORMON
Sunday, Sep 10, 6:30pm, 1408 Jennelle Rd., Blacksburg
Have you ever wondered what the Book of Mormon is about? Perhaps you’ve heard of the Broadway play, or what some call the "Mormon Bible"? On behalf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, grad student Kevin Watson invites you to attend an evening event all about the Book of Mormon. All are welcome to attend! Questions? Contact Kevin at wk223@vt.edu.

10. INTERVARSITY GRAD CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDIES – 1st posting
Starting Tuesday, Sep 5 at various locations, our small group Bible studies meet Tuesday-Thursday evenings in grad students’ homes and the GLC. Get connected with a group of friends on a journey of faith through grad school! See a list of current groups: http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/small-groups/ or contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) for more information.

11. RAFFLE TO COLLECT FUNDS FOR L.I.F.E. HOUSTON – 1st posting
The Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) is holding a raffle to collect funds for L.I.F.E. Houston to support women and children affected by Hurricane Harvey.  Everyone who buys a raffle ticket will be entered for a chance to win 1 of 2 Amazon Echo Dots.  Contact Taylor Bradley, tnb25@vt.edu, for information on how to purchase tickets.  

12. DISABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY IN THE CLASSROOM (NLI OFFERING) – 1st posting
Martina Svyantek and Dr. Ashley Shew will be leading a faculty inquiry group through Networked Learning Initiatives (NLI) this fall titled "Disability and Accessibility in the Classroom.” These sessions are geared towards faculty, though graduate students (especially GTAs) are also allowed to sign-up and participate. The in-person meetings (4 sessions, 10 am-1pm) will occur on the following Wednesdays this fall: September 6 and 20, Oct 4 and 18. Each session will cover different material. To enroll in this NLI Faculty Inquiry group, please go to NLI calendar and sign-up. You can direct questions about the sessions to Martina Svyantek at svyantek@vt.edu or disability@vt.edu.

13. GRADUATE STUDENT ADDITIONALSVCS SURVEY – DUE BY FRI 9/8 – 1st posting
The Graduate School collaborates with several offices and groups to provide services and support to students. The questions in this survey are OPTIONAL and are designed to match your needs with university services and student group support. Your responses will NOT be shared with anyone except for the Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives and the Dean of Graduate Education. Please complete the survey no later than Friday, September 8th, 2017. To access the survey go to
https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5tp4EWIC5jriiON or http://bit.ly/2v32lTn. Sponsored by the Graduate School’s Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives. Contact: Christian Matheis at matheisc@vt.edu

14. NEW! MULTILINGUAL SERVICES AND SPEAKING SUPPORT SVCS – 1st posting
Did you know that the Writing Center offers support in conversational English, as well as other languages? To access all of our services, see our website https://www.lib.vt.edu/spaces/writing-center.html.  Select "Make an appointment" and register for an account.  It’s free! Also, Language volunteers wanted! See our website above and look under "Additional Services" for details about participation.

15. VT OFC OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SEEKS BOARD MEMBERS – 1st posting
The VT Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is seeking members for their Student Advisory Board. The board offers opportunities to provide feedback on emergency preparedness campaigns to OEM, design and implement emergency preparedness campaigns, and participate in OEM outreach for campus events. Meetings are every other Tuesday 6:00-8:00 pm starting Sep 12 in the Public Safety Building behind Lane Stadium. The remaining meeting dates for the fall semester are Sep 26, Oct 10, Oct 24, Nov 7, and Nov 28. Spring meeting dates will be distributed later in the year. Direct any questions to the chair of the board, Jordan Schoeneberger, at sjordan6@vt.edu. To join, go to: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7NFKgHV1A9C9ICV.

16. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE CALL FOR MEMBERSHIP – 2nd posting
The Academy for Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) Excellence welcomes applications for Member, Associate, and Fellow in its learning community. VTGrATE provides advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies and provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to all graduate students at all VT campuses. For more info or to apply: http://vtgrate.org/membership/application-and-review/. Applications due Sat., Sep 16, 2017. Questions? Contact Michelle Soledad soledadmm@vt.edu.

17. TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIP TO OPENCON CONFERENCE – 3rd posting
Graduate students are encouraged to apply for a travel scholarship, sponsored by the University Libraries and the Graduate School, to OpenCon, a conference for early career researchers on open access, open data, and open education.  One Virginia Tech graduate student will be selected to attend the conference held in Berlin, Germany on November 11-13.  Read reports from Virginia Tech attendees in 2014, 2015, and 2016.  Apply by Sep 5 at bit.ly/VTOpenCon2017.

18. IMPROVE YOUR RESEARCH SKILLS – 3rd posting
GRAD 5124, Research Skills for Graduate Students, is a 1-credit, fully-online course offered by University Libraries in Fall 2017. Five discipline-specific sections are offered. Sign up in HokieSpa for the one that relates to your subject area. Questions? Contact Lisa Becksford at lisab5@vt.edu.

19. STUDENTS INVITED TO JOIN INTERNATIONAL LGBTQ+ GROUP – 3rd posting
AcrossBorders@VT provides a friendly group and space for international LGBTQ+ students/faculty/affiliates of Virginia Tech  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 US, the group aims to provide a more customized support to the international LGBTQ+ population. The group ensures confidentiality and privacy of all members. If interested or have questions, contact acrossborders.vt@gmail.com. Email to join the confidential Facebook group to connect with other international LGBTQ+ people.

20. PROGRAM CHAIRS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY – 1st posting
The GSA is currently accepting applications for this year’s program chairs. Responsibilities include implementing the GSA’s programs, attending board and delegate meetings, and volunteering at GSA-sponsored events. Seeking applicants with excellent time management and multi-tasking skills; good communication and writing skills; and creative problem-solving skills. This year, we are hiring a chair to manage our Travel Fund Program, our Graduate Research and Development Program, and our annual Research Symposium (2 chairs). Chairs will work under the supervision of the Executive Board. For more information on each position, visit bit.ly/GSAProgramChairs1718. To apply, email your CV, the position for which you are applying, and a brief (1 page or less) letter of interest in Word format to Joshua Slaughenhoupt at jslaugh@vt.edu. Applications are due on Friday, September 15th, at 5:00pm.

21. PART-TIME GA POSITION IN SOCIAL SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH – 1st posting
The research team for “Cultivating an Ethical STEM Culture through an Integrated Undergraduate General Education” seeks a PT graduate assistant with competencies in social scientific research to participate in project. Students from any program or department will be considered, but the ideal student will be at least two years into their studies and have knowledge of survey methodology, ethics, and pedagogy, as well as an undergraduate background in a STEM discipline. Will work with all project members during periods of the project. Will work most closely with Dr. Sara Jordan (Center for Public Administration & Policy), Dr. Diana Biaraktarova, (Dept. of Engineering Education), and/or Dr. Stephen Biscotte (Office of the Provost). Key tasks include: Identifying sampling frames for student and faculty surveys; development of survey instrument language and identification of survey platforms (e.g., Web or App based); monitoring survey data acquisition; development of participant observation strategies; note taking during participant observations of courses; and conducting literature reviews. 10 hrs/wk for Fall 2017, with possible continuation and migration to full time in subsequent semesters. Particular periods of the project will require more intensive work and hours than others. If interested, send a CV and a cover letter describing how previous work has met key tasks, how background meets requirements, and how current or planned research would be helped along by working with this research team to: srjordan@vt.edu.

22. GA POSITION ON LEARNING DESIGN TEAM IN TLOS – 2nd posting
Learning Experience Design, a unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies, is seeking a graduate student to fill a GA position dedicated to supporting the design and development of online courses and course content. Requires knowledge of instructional design and instructional technology along with strong skills in development of media for course content including video, graphics, images and interactive digital learning objects. Experience with Camtasia or other screen recording technology, Adobe Captivate, Articulate Storyline, Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.), video editing and consumer level video camera experience is desired. If interested, contact lbaab@vt.edu.

23. GRA OPENING FOR A GIS PROGRAMMER/ANALYST – 2nd posting
The Enterprise GIS units of Virginia Tech’s central IT organization has an opening for a full-time GRA (20 hr/wk) position, beginning Fall 2017 and continuing for a full year (through August 2018).  Position requires a highly-motivated graduate student with GIS programming, GIS analysis and/or web design skills to support a variety of projects in a technical team environment, using an evolving set of best-practice tools, libraries and techniques. Tasks include developing scripts to automate GIS data management and server administration tasks; performing mapping and analysis tasks; and developing and maintaining GIS-enabled web applications. Experience with Python programming, Tools and APIs related to the ESRI ArcGIS platform required. If interested, forward a current resume and cover letter to egisjobs@bev.vt.edu.

24. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: MIDDLE CHILDHOOD EMOTION REGULATION STUDY – 1st posting
The C.A.P. Lab in the Psychology Department at Virginia Tech is conducting a new study focusing on children’s ability to learn how to regulate their emotions and its impact on memory. During this visit, your child will watch some short video clips, play some word and computer games.  In addition to these games, we are interested in collecting information about the physiological components of these abilities. Your child will wear a stretchy EEG cap to collect brain wave activity and ECG electrodes to collect heart rate activity. The visit should last about 1.5 hours. Participants must be 9-10 years old, born after a full-term pregnancy, weighed at least 6 pounds at birth, and currently healthy.  We offer a $20 Target gift card as compensation for parents and a toy for children, and we can provide childcare for siblings.  If you are interested in this study, contact Tatiana Garcia-Meza by research lab phone 540-231-2320 or email tgarcia@vt.edu.

25. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: OSTEOPATHIC ASSESSMENT AND MANIPULATION STUDY – 1st posting
The Kevin P. Granata Lab is seeking volunteers for a study examining osteopathic assessment and manipulation. Participation in the study would include an osteopathic assessment and a biomechanical assessment; osteopathic manipulation and a second biomechanical assessment may also be included in participation. Volunteers must be between 18 and 35 years of age and have no past or current lower extremity injuries that required medical care. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, please contact Cherice Hughes-Oliver at granata-lab-g@vt.edu or (540) 231-4294.

26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: MINDFULLNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION STUDY – 1st posting
Are you chronically stressed? The Virginia Tech Department of Psychology is conducting a study investigating the effectiveness of a weekly mindfulness meditation group for people who experience chronic stress. Must be Ages 18-55 and able to attend 8 weekly group meetings (Wed 9:00-11:00am). Learn coping mechanisms and mindfulness meditation. No experience required. More information at If interested in participating, please email  hokiemindfulness@gmail.com.

27. SPEAKERS WANTED FOR RESEARCH A LA MODE – 2nd posting
Research a la Mode is a monthly venue for graduate students from different departments to come together and hear a talk by one of their peers. The main idea is to give graduate students an opportunity to practice communicating their research to an audience that is unfamiliar with their discipline in order to cut down on reliance on jargon and to simplify and clarify their presentation skills. RALM aims to help graduate students become better teachers, researchers and communicators. Talks are usually around 30 minutes. Email  lashley@vt.edu if interested.

28. INTERNATIONAL TEACHING ASSISTANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY – 3rd posting
VT researchers are conducting a longitudinal study during Fall 2017 to understand the experiences of international teaching assistants (ITAs) at Virginia Tech. Participants must be graduate teaching assistants in an engineering department at the university with an F-1 or a J-1 visa. The study involves 3 interviews lasting approximately 45-60 minutes each and weekly journal responses taking about 10-15 minutes each. $20 Kroger gift card upon completion of each interview. Weekly reflection prompt response enters you in raffle for $25 Kroger gift card. Contact Ashish Agrawa, Dept. of Engineering Education at 540-922-5125 or ashishag@vt.edu for more info.

29. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a research study about metabolic cost of lifting with and without a wearable exoskeleton. Must be 18-65 years old with no recent or prior musculoskeletal disorders or back injuries. A weight range of 155 – 190 lbs is preferred. Should be able to comfortably lift about 25% of bodyweight from the floor to waist height. Will perform a variety of lifting tasks both with and without the exoskeleton during two experimental sessions. Compensation: $10/hour. If interested, email Mehdi Alemi at malemi@vt.edu or call at 317-473-1736.

Upcoming events:

OLYMPIC TAEKWONDO CLUB AT VIRGINIA TECH — OPEN WORKOUT
Monday, September 11th, 8:00-9:00pm, 915 Hethwood Blvd., Blacksburg
Want to do something different this semester? Now’s your chance! The Olympic Taekwondo Club is holding an open workout for anyone who is interested in trying taekwondo. No experience is necessary and everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Casey Denham atmalemi@vt.edu malemi@vt.edu

PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Sep 13, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Join other graduate student parents, spouses, and partners at this free lunch sponsored by the Graduate School. Preschoolers are welcome to join the group. A topic relevant to parenting while in school will be discussed. Space is limited and spots fill up quickly, so be sure to signup soon at this link: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-september2

SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION AT VT LIBRARIES
Thursday, Sep 14, 5:00-6:00 pm, Newman Library Room 207A
Learn about electronic thesis/dissertations, open educational resources, library publishing services, VTech Works and participate in an optional tour of Newman Library. Pizza and drinks will be provided. Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cN4UCKF5foJjyip

KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE – Starting Thursday, Sep 14
Thursday,  Sep 14, 2017 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center, 206 Washington St., Bburg.
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained) on Thursdays from 6:00-8:30pm, at the Women’s Center. No need to pre-register. We have games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of FUN! Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of breaks when classes are not in session. The Women’s Center is located at 206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu or 231-7806.

"VIRGINIA TECH AFTER #CHARLOTTESVILLE" – A #STILLCONCERNEDVT FACULTY INITIATIVE
Thursday, Sep14th, 6:00-8:00pm, Owens Banquet Hall
FEATURED SPEAKERS: Students are strongly encouraged to attend this teach-in on recent events.1) The social construction of diversity and community engagement" – Dr. Sarah Ovink, Sociology; 2) "White nationalist appropriation of medieval symbols" – Dr. Matthew Gabriele, Religion & Culture; 3) "The First Amendment, free speech, and the ‘Unite the Right’ organizers" – Dr. Wornie Reed, Sociology.  Moderator: Dr. Carmen Gitre, History. Contact: Christian Matheis (matheisc@vt.edu). Sponsored by The Office of Inclusion and Diversity, The Graduate School.

WHAT HAVE I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO?
Friday, Sep 15, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
If you’re a new graduate student who has asked yourself this question, the Graduate School wants you to know that you are not alone! Meet fellow graduate students, new and returning, to talk about this exciting—and often overwhelming—life adventure. There will be pizza! If you plan on attending, be sure to sign-up at the following link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aWUQeoKnVQSbz37