GLC Weekly

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/19/16

• Career Services advising: on hiatus until spring; walk-in hours starting on Jan 27
• Cook Counseling: on hiatus this week 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: TTh 11:00-1:00, F 10:00-12:00, Room A
• Writing assistance: Th 5:30-8:30, Room A

2. VT REC SPORTS FREE WEEK OF FITNESS – JAN 19-25
Take any Group Exercise, Small Group Training, or Instructional Dance class in McComas Hall or War Memorial Hall for free this week through Jan 25. Check out the schedule at: chrome-extension://oemmndcbldboiebfnladdacbdfmadadm/https://www.recsports.vt.edu/sites/drupal.recsports.vt.edu/files/pages/2016-01-11%2011%3A21/FreeWeekSpring16.pdf

3. BREAKFAST WITH THE DEAN
Wednesday, Jan 20, 8:30am-10:00am, GLC Room G
Stop by to chat with Karen DePauw – vice president for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School – and fellow graduate students while enjoying a light breakfast from Our Daily Bread! This event is come-and-go and free to all graduate students. Stay on the look-out for future "with the Dean" events throughout the school year. Hosted by the Graduate Student Assembly.

4. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP – 1st SPRING MTG
Wednesday, Jan 20, 6:00-8:00pm, GLC Room C
InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship <http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/> meets weekly for a free dinner and interactive Bible discussion. The conversation theme this spring is "True Freedom" from the book of Galatians. All are welcome!

5. THESIS THURSDAYS
Thursdays, starting Jan 21, 8:30am-3:30pm
Need a quiet space to work on your thesis, dissertation, or course work? Gotta study for exams? Absolutely have to get that article out, like, yesterday? Thesis Thursday is your answer! This weekly gathering is for grad students who want to keep accountable to a regular work time and need a guaranteed quiet place to work. Meet each Thursday just a few blocks off campus at 107 Church Street – 2nd floor of the State Farm office (entrance on Church Street). Free coffee and wi-fi, plus multiple spots to sit and study alone or in groups. Stop in any time during study hours. Limited parking available. For more details, contact grad student Morgan Franke at fmorg14@vt.edu.

6. PARENT INFO SESSION
Thursday, Jan 21, 10:00-11:00am, GLC Room D
Grad students with children, or who are expecting, or are planning to start a family are invited to this session to learn about current programs and initiatives that may help you. Email childcare@vt.edu for more info.

7. DISSECTING THE MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF VOCAL LEARNING AND SPOKEN LANGUAGE: A PERSONAL JOURNEY FROM A DIVERSITY PERSPECTIVE"
Thursday, Jan 21, 3:30pm, Biocomplexity Institute (formerly VBI) Conference Room
This special Martin Luther King Week seminar is co-sponsored by multiple campus organizations and hosted by the Biological Sciences Diversity Committee, featuring Erich Jarvis, Department of Neurobiology at Duke University, as the speaker. The presentation will address discoveries that required a diverse set of scientific approaches, was benefitted by working with persons from diverse backgrounds, was influenced by the speaker’s upbringing at the height of the civil rights movement, and was fostered by taking both large collaborative and individualistic approaches.

8. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Jan 21, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy all kinds of hot beverages and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Bring your own mug if you can!

9. STUDENT HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR
Friday, Jan 22, 11:00am-3:00pm, McComas Hall
Participate in the Student Health and Wellness Fair in McComas Hall and take advantage of health screenings, workouts, and opportunities to learn things about your health and wellness that you didn’t already know. Explore, plan, and open yourself to opportunities to better yourself in areas of wellness including emotional, environmental, occupational, cultural intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual. See http://www.recsports.vt.edu/content/student-health-and-wellness-fair-0 for details.

10. FREE DINNER & GAME NIGHT
Friday, Jan 22, 6:30-9:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Come join fellow grad students for an evening of free food and fun! We will have a variety of card games, board games, video games and more. All are welcome, and you can come anytime. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

11. NEW YOU IN THE NRV
Saturday, Jan 23, 3:00-6:00pm, Blacksburg Rec Ctr, 725 Patrick Henry Drive
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. invites you to their event that provides free (1) health screenings, including blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI; (2) fitness classes, including boot camp, Zumba and yoga; (3) smoothie demonstration; (4) treatment and consultation from certified and licensed massage therapist, chiropractor and acupuncturist; (5) health related giveaways! For more info contact bacdst@yahoo.com or visit www.bacdst13.org. Posted on behalf of BSE grad student Teneil Sivells.

12. ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUPS AT CRANWELL
The Cranwell International Center offers multiple classes per week for anyone who wishes to improve their English and learn more about the local culture. They are open to Virginia Tech students, researchers, scholars, faculty, visitors and their dependents. Individuals can attend any number of classes per week. If you have any questions, email international@vt.edu. The conversation groups are free of charge and require no registration. See schedule: http://www.international.vt.edu/programs_and_activities/english_conversation_groups/index.html.

13. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO FEB 1 – 2nd posting
The deadline to submit abstracts for the 32nd annual GSA Research Symposium & Expo has been extended to Feb 1. The Graduate Student Assembly looks forward to receiving submissions from graduate and advanced undergraduate students from various disciplines for the theme of “Beyond Boundaries, Across Disciplines.” The symposium will be held Mar 23 in the Graduate Life Center. The top presentations will be awarded cash prizes! Submission guidelines and more information at: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/. If you submitted an abstract prior to the original deadline of Jan 1, you will receive an email update from GSA by the end of this week. Please do NOT resubmit your abstract if you have already submitted. Send questions and/or concerns to gsa.symposium16@gmail.com.

14. VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – 2nd posting
For rising seniors, just graduated seniors and graduate students interested in learning more about the administration of state government.  Full information at https://governor.virginia.gov/fellows/  A $2000 stipend is available through Career Services for any selected VT students.  Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu for more information about the stipend.

15. CHILDCARE AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN OF GRAD STUDENTS – 3rd posting
Spaces are available in the Little Hokie Hangout (LHH) parent-cooperative child care center for the Spring semester, open 8:30am-6:30pm this spring. LHH offers child care in an affordable and accessible way. Email to childcare@vt.edu to set up a time to come see the program and ask any questions you might have. Half-day tuition at LHH for the entire Spring semester is only $840.00! That’s a one-time charge for all 78 days that your child attends the program.

16. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – still posting
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 12, 2016. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

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

• Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
• Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
• Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
• Graduate Student Service Excellence
• Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
• Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs.

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/awards/2015_2016.

18. GRAD ASSISTANT NEEDED IMMEDIATELY – 1st posting
VT research project team is seeking a Graduate Assistant this semester (and possible for summer) for data handling and analysis. The project is based on a grant from National Institute of Justice to empirically examine the so-called “school-to-prison pipeline theory”. The GA will work in an analysis team guided by Yasuo Miyazaki, associate professor in School of Education. Qualifications: responsible person with skills and experience in handling large-scale social and behavioral science data, including merging data files, data cleaning, aggregating and disaggregating data between individual student and school levels, and data analysis; working knowledge of linear models and measurement analysis; strong writing skills; SPSS knowledge and skills desirable. To apply, email CV that includes the description of the above qualifications, unofficial transcript with  statistics-related courses and grades, and two names of references and their contact information to Yasuo Miyazaki (yasuom@vt.edu). Search will start immediately.

19. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON SIMULATED AUTOMOBILE ASSEMBLY TASKS – 1st posting
Requirements: Age 18-30; females only; no current or recent history (1 year) of musculoskeletal problems. Participants will be asked to perform a repetitive task simulating automotive trim assembly, involving striking activities with the hand/fist.  The experiment will be done in a laboratory setting in the ISE department. Four sessions (one training + three data collection), compensation: $10 per hour for about 3 hours in each of four sessions + $20 bonus after completion. Contact Alireza Sedighi at 540-394-8441 or sedighia@vt.edu if interested.

20. VT HELPING PAWS IS RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS – 1st posting
VT Helping PAWS (Pet Assisted Wellness Service) is a therapy animal program at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine that provides an opportunity for students/faculty/staff and their pets to bring companionship and animal-assisted therapy for the community. The group visits Newman Library, Squires Student Center, and other places around campus on a regular basis. Join the organization and become a therapy team through Pet Partners, a national pet therapy organization.  The current focus includes dogs & cats, but there is potential for other species such as rats, rabbits, & guinea pigs to be evaluated through Pet Partners.  Volunteers who do not have their own pet are still welcome to help with training classes and at events! If interested, complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1452557426692. There will be a Meet & Greet on  Tuesday, Feb 2 at 6:00pm at the CMMID barn on Prices Fork Rd for the pets & their handlers interested in joining this semester’s training class.  Contact Sara Boyle at petluv15@vt.edu with questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

FITNESS LAUNCH PARTY
Monday, Jan 25, 5:00-7:00pm, McComas Hall Single Gym
Join for back-to-back 20-minute samples of different fitness classes! Come and go as you please – it’s the perfect way to try new workout formats for the first time without committing to hour-long classes. If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you. Event is free and open to the VT Community. Schedule and more details coming soon.

LUNCH WITH THE DEAN
Tuesday, Jan 26, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
Meet Grad School dean Karen P. DePauw and grad student leaders at this free lunch. Learn about the latest in grad education, share your perspective in a casual setting and ask any questions you may have. Registration is required at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_0jmOYgud9hDREGN

WRITING A WINNING RESUME
Wednesday, Jan 27, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room G  
Career Services presents this workshop on how to make your resume competitive. This is the first session among four, and will be followed by interviewing skills (Feb 3), career fair prep (Feb 17), and a LinkedIn lab (Mar 16), all of which could be useful if you are getting ready to (re-)enter the job market.

A CONVERSATION ON RACE: UNITY & DIVERSITY ON CAMPUS
Wednesday, Jan 27, 6:30-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
What’s your experience of racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity at Virginia Tech? Join students and community members seeking a healthier campus climate through this interactive dinner and dialogue. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship. Please pre-register at: http://bit.ly/ConvOnRace16 to help the organizers order enough food. For more info contact Shavonn Whiten shavonnw@vt.edu.

GLC MOVIE NIGHT: BEFORE SUNRISE
Wednesday, Jan 27, 7:15-9:15pm, GLC Room F
It’s time for the first GLC movie night of the semester, hosted by the Graduate Fellows! "Before Sunrise" is a classic (check out the trailer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9v6X-Dytlko). Small trivia: It is the 21st anniversary of the movie’s release. Snacks and sodas will be provided. If you have any questions, email Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu.

WRITING CENTER INFORMATION SESSIONS ON FORMING WRITING SUPPORT GROUPS
Thursday, Jan 28, 12:30-1:00, GLC Room D
Friday, Jan 29, 12:30-1:00, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with writing your thesis, dissertation, journal articles, and more? Would you like some help finding other graduate students to form a writing support group? The Writing Center and the Graduate School are facilitating the forming of writing support groups. Attend one of these information sessions to learn how a writing group may help you stay on task, how to become a member of a writing group, and other techniques that may help you along the way. Can’t make it to the above dates? Two more sessions to on Feb 11 and 12 in the GLC.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/11/16

• Career Services advising: on hiatus until spring; walk-in hours starting on Jan 27
• Cook Counseling: on hiatus this week 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: on hiatus this week
• Writing assistance: on hiatus until spring

2. SHOPPING TRIP FOR NEW INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Thursday, Jan 14, 1:00pm
The Cranwell International Center offers this shopping trip to Christiansburg for new students to help you acquire items for your new home. Free transportation is provided, no registration required. Visit http://www.calendar.vt.edu/main.php?view=event&calendarid=cranwell&eventid=1451920902061 for more information about this event.

 

3. GLC CAFÉ: HOT CHOCOLATE FROM SCRATCH

Thursday, Jan 14, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room

Enjoy the usual free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues, as well as some hot chocolate made from scratch, because it’s gonna be a cold week! 

 

4. PIZZA AND GAME NIGHT

Friday, Jan 15, 5:00-7:30pm, BreakZONE in the Squires Student Center

Join Cranwell International Center staff, community volunteers and fellow VT students for an evening of pizza and games in the BreakZONE, home of billiards, bowling, table tennis and more on the first floor of the Squires Student Center. Free to all international students during this special reserved time! Registration requested at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a0c4eadae2ca13-pizza.

 

5. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO FEB 1 – 1st posting

The deadline to submit abstracts for the 32nd annual GSA Research Symposium & Expo has been extended to Feb 1. The Graduate Student Assembly looks forward to receiving submissions from graduate and advanced undergraduate students from various disciplines for the theme of “Beyond Boundaries, Across Disciplines.” The symposium will be held Mar 23 in the Graduate Life Center. The top presentations will be awarded cash prizes! Submission guidelines and more information at: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/. If you submitted an abstract prior to the original deadline of Jan 1, you will receive an email update from GSA by the end of this week. Please do NOT resubmit your abstract if you have already submitted. Send questions and/or concerns to gsa.symposium16@gmail.com.

 

6. VIRGINIA GOVERNOR’S FELLOWS PROGRAM – 1st posting

For rising seniors, just graduated seniors and graduate students interested in learning more about the administration of state government.  Full information at https://governor.virginia.gov/fellows/  A $2000 stipend is available through Career Services for any selected VT students.  Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu for more information about the stipend.

 

7. CHILDCARE AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN OF GRAD STUDENTS – 2nd posting

Spaces are available in the Little Hokie Hangout (LHH) parent-cooperative child care center for the Spring semester, open 8:30am-6:30pm this spring. LHH offers child care in an affordable and accessible way. Email to childcare@vt.edu to set up a time to come see the program and ask any questions you might have. Half-day tuition at LHH for the entire Spring semester is only $840.00! That’s a one-time charge for all 78 days that your child attends the program.

 

8. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – 3rd posting

Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 12, 2016. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

 

9. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – 3rd posting

A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination with your advisor/department for any of the following awards:

– Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities

– Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award

– Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant

– Graduate Student Service Excellence

– Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)

– Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs.

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/awards/2015_2016.

 

10. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BEHAVIORAL AND NEURO-IMAGING STUDY ON SOCIAL ATTITUDES – 3rd posting

VTCRI researchers are recruiting subjects for a behavioral and neuroimaging study on social attitudes.

Participants will:  Answer questionnaires and complete assessments;  Play simple computer games during an MRI scan;  Receive $30-50 for their participation;  Receive a CD of their brain images from the MRI scan. Must be: 18-30 years old; Caucasian (White American) born citizen of the United States; free of metal implants; not claustrophobic. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, email participate@vtc.vt.edu or call Lauren at 540-526-2120 or Riley at 540-526-2068.

 

11. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ON HARDWARE DESIGN – 3rd posting

The VT Configurable Computing Machinery Lab is looking for participants for a research study on a new tool being developed for automatic suggestion of reusable designs. Participants will be asked to design two simple circuits in Verilog to test the effectiveness of such a tool. Email Kevin Zeng at kaiwen@vt.edu to set up a time or if there are any questions.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE: CONTINUING THE FIGHT FOR INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE

Monday, Jan 18, 10:00am – 2:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room, GLC

Participate in an interactive session using case studies to learn, discuss, and craft the next steps in the struggle for graduate student success. Hear a briefing by Vice President and Dean Dr. Karen DePauw about InclusiveVT and responses to last year’s MLK Day forum. Students are highly encouraged to participate in the process and work with university administrators in Creating an Affirming Environment: Eradicating academic bullying in graduate education. Lunch provided. Please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eKf6G55UcIIalBH if you are planning to attend.

 

FIELD TRIP TO ROANOKE

Monday, January 18, 9:30am-5:30pm, leaving from Cranwell International Center

Spend the day exploring the nearby city of Roanoke, VA. Museums, shopping and ice-skating awaits! The group will leave Cranwell at 9:30 am, and return to campus at 5:30 pm. Transportation provided. Cost of trip: $8 will be billed to your student account for transportation. Please anticipate spending $25 of your own money as well. Registration is required at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a0c4eadae2ca13-field.

 

BREAKFAST WITH THE DEAN

Wednesday, Jan 20, 8:30am-10:00am, GLC Room G

Stop by to chat with Karen DePauw – vice president for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School – and fellow graduate students while enjoying a light breakfast from Our Daily Bread! This event is come-and-go and free to all graduate students. Stay on the look-out for future "with the Dean" events throughout the school year. Hosted by the Graduate Student Assembly.

 

DISSECTING THE MOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF VOCAL LEARNING AND SPOKEN LANGUAGE: A PERSONAL JOURNEY FROM A DIVERSITY PERSPECTIVE"

Thursday, Jan 21, 3:30pm, Biocomplexity Institute (formerly VBI) Conference Room

This special Martin Luther King Week seminar is co-sponsored by multiple campus organizations and hosted by the Biological Sciences Diversity Committee, featuring Erich Jarvis, Department of Neurobiology at Duke University, as the speaker. The presentation will address discoveries that required a diverse set of scientific approaches, was benefitted by working with persons from diverse backgrounds, was influenced by the speaker’s upbringing at the height of the civil rights movement, and was fostered by taking both large collaborative and individualistic approaches.

 

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/4/16

• Career Services advising: on hiatus until spring
• Cook Counseling: on hiatus this week 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: on hiatus this week
• Writing assistance: on hiatus until spring

2. GLC CAFÉ: NEW YEAR’S EDITION
Thursday, Jan 7, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Celebrate the beginning of the new year with the first café of 2016 and share your new-year-celebration traditions (and snacks, if you like)! Of course the usual free coffee, tea, and cookies will be provided, as well as some hot chocolate and hot cider. And whipped cream, because we still have some.

3. CHILDCARE AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN OF GRAD STUDENTS – 1st posting
Spaces are available in the Little Hokie Hangout (LHH) parent-cooperative child care center for the Spring semester, open 8:30am-6:30pm this spring. LHH offers child care in an affordable and accessible way. Email to childcare@vt.edu to set up a time to come see the program and ask any questions you might have. Half-day tuition at LHH for the entire Spring semester is only $840.00! That’s a one-time charge for all 78 days that your child attends the program.

4. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – 2nd posting
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 12, 2016. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

5. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – 2nd posting
A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination with your advisor/department for any of the following awards:

• Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
• Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
• Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
• Graduate Student Service Excellence
• Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
• Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs.

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/awards/2015_2016.

6. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR DATA MANAGEMENT BOOTCAMP IN JANUARY – 2nd posting
Graduate students interested in learning more about data management issues and best practices are invited to participate in the forthcoming one-day Data Management Bootcamp sponsored by the University Libraries at Virginia Tech, on January 15, 2016, 9am-4:30pm. Registration required, spaces are limited. Learn more and register online at https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/1N_5RSqiE2U7eJYjRdWAOExDoakozRr06h-MwUj4WrB8/viewform?c=0&w=1.

7. GRAD-UGRAD MENTORING PROGRAM SEEKING MENTORS – 3rd posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields! This program allows graduate students to mentor undergraduate students considering graduate school. Undergraduates and graduates are matched according to their area of study, allowing the undergraduate to get a taste for graduate school and to ask questions of current graduate students. Each mentor is matched with 1–2 mentees, who will shadow/meet with them at times convenient for the graduate mentor during the Spring semester. Mentoring can help build leadership skills and provide an experience to discuss with future employers. GUMP is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly(GSA). Email to gump@vt.edu with any questions. If interested, apply at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1448905481133.

8. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED – 3rd posting
The Academy for GTA Excellence (https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/jwrgrad/academy-for-advanced-teaching-and-transforming-learning-aattl/) invites applications for Academy member, Associate, and Fellow in its Learning Community. The Academy provides opportunities for graduate students to receive advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies. It also provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to graduate students at all VT campuses. Applications are available at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3Vsd1V1nnizMkqp; and nominations or recommendation form at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_4PzjmrgAFGhBQUt; both are due Saturday, Jan 30. For questions about the Academy, contact VP and Dean for Graduate Education Karen P. DePauw (kpdepauw@vt.edu) or Nicole J. Johnson (nicj712@vt.edu).

9. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BEHAVIORAL AND NEURO-IMAGING STUDY ON SOCIAL ATTITUDES – 2nd posting
VTCRI researchers are recruiting subjects for a behavioral and neuroimaging study on social attitudes. Participants will:  Answer questionnaires and complete assessments;  Play simple computer games during an MRI scan;  Receive $30-50 for their participation;  Receive a CD of their brain images from the MRI scan. Must be: 18-30 years old; Caucasian (White American) born citizen of the United States; free of metal implants; not claustrophobic. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, email participate@vtc.vt.edu or call Lauren at 540-526-2120 or Riley at 540-526-2068.

10. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ON HARDWARE DESIGN – 2nd posting
The VT Configurable Computing Machinery Lab is looking for participants for a research study on a new tool being developed for automatic suggestion of reusable designs. Participants will be asked to design two simple circuits in Verilog to test the effectiveness of such a tool. Email Kevin Zeng at kaiwen@vt.edu to set up a time or if there are any questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE: CONTINUING THE FIGHT FOR INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE
Monday, Jan 18, 10:00am – 2:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room, GLC
Participate in an interactive session using case studies to learn, discuss, and craft the next steps in the struggle for graduate student success. Hear a briefing by Vice President and Dean Dr. Karen DePauw about InclusiveVT and responses to last year’s MLK Day forum. Students are highly encouraged to participate in the process and work with university administrators in Creating an Affirming Environment: Eradicating academic bullying in graduate education. Lunch provided.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 12/14/15

• Career Services advising: on hiatus until spring
• Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm until 12/23
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
• Writing assistance: on hiatus until spring

2. GLC CAFÉ: BOOK SWAP EDITION WITH HOT CIDER AND CHOCOLATE
Thursday, Dec 17, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Celebrate the end of the semester and the end of the year with the final café of 2015, combined with a book swap. Bring books and take some, or just take books to read during the break. Share your favorite titles with grad students and Grad School colleagues over coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot cider, and cookies. And whipped cream. And marshmellows. The café will be on a break on Dec 24 and 31, but will return on Jan 7, 2016!

3. GRADUATE COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
Friday, Dec 18, 3:00pm, Cassell Coliseum
Join in the celebration of our graduating master’s and doctoral students and certificate recipients. For details visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/commencement_info. This event will be live streamed.

4. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – 1st posting
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 12, 2016. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

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

• Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
• Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
• Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
• Graduate Student Service Excellence
• Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
• Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs.

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/awards/2015_2016.

6. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR DATA MANAGEMENT BOOTCAMP IN JANUARY – 1st posting
Graduate students interested in learning more about data management issues and best practices are invited to participate in the forthcoming one-day Data Management Bootcamp sponsored by the University Libraries at Virginia Tech, on January 15, 2016, 9am-4:30pm. Registration required, spaces are limited. Learn more and register online at https://docs.google.com/a/vt.edu/forms/d/1N_5RSqiE2U7eJYjRdWAOExDoakozRr06h-MwUj4WrB8/viewform?c=0&w=1.

7. ASSOCIATION FOR INDIA’S DEVELOPMENT (AID) FLOOD RELIEF CAMPAIGN – 1st  posting
Southern India is reeling from some of the heaviest and deadliest rains in decades. Indian students at Virginia Tech and AID-Blacksburg ask for your help in raising funds for the relief and rehabilitation of the victims. Please donate online at http://www.tinyurl.com/TNRelief. AID is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible. Visit AID on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AID.VT. For more information contact volunteers Wrik Mallik wrik@vt.edu or Shreya Roy Choudhury shreyarc@vt.edu.

8. GREEN GRADS OF VT – 1st posting
If you would like to participate in the Office of Sustainability’s program “Green Graduates of Virginia Tech,” send a quick blurb of how you pledge to support a sustainable world and a photo of yourself (think “Humans of New York” project or just your standard selfie) to https://www.facebook.com/Green-Graduates-of-Virginia-Tech-465341976985523/timeline OR to kshepard@vt.edu and the photo will be posted for you, along with your name, major(s), and college(s) and you will receive a free green sustainability cord for graduation! Submit your pledges by Wednesday, Dec 16 and the office will coordinate with you to deliver the green cord prior to commencement.

9. GRAD-UGRAD MENTORING PROGRAM SEEKING MENTORS – 2nd posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields! This program allows graduate students to mentor undergraduate students considering graduate school. Undergraduates and graduates are matched according to their area of study, allowing the undergraduate to get a taste for graduate school and to ask questions of current graduate students. Each mentor is matched with 1–2 mentees, who will shadow/meet with them at times convenient for the graduate mentor during the Spring semester. Mentoring can help build leadership skills and provide an experience to discuss with future employers. GUMP is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly(GSA). Email to gump@vt.edu with any questions. If interested, apply at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1448905481133.

10. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED – 2nd posting
The Academy for GTA Excellence (https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/jwrgrad/academy-for-advanced-teaching-and-transforming-learning-aattl/) invites applications for Academy member, Associate, and Fellow in its Learning Community. The Academy provides opportunities for graduate students to receive advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies. It also provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to graduate students at all VT campuses. Applications are available at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3Vsd1V1nnizMkqp; and nominations or recommendation form at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_4PzjmrgAFGhBQUt; both are due Saturday, Jan 30. For questions about the Academy, contact VP and Dean for Graduate Education Karen P. DePauw (kpdepauw@vt.edu) or Nicole J. Johnson (nicj712@vt.edu).

11. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION OPEN THROUGH JANUARY 1 – 2nd posting
The 32nd Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium and Exposition will take place on March 23, 2016 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between November 8, 2015 and January 1, 2016 at 11:59pm (EST). Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Please read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience. Contact the Research Symposium and Exposition Chairs (Anthony Carno and Yesim Keskin) at gsa.syposium16@gmail.com with any questions.

12. GSA WEEKLY UPDATES AVAILABLE ONLINE – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the governing body representing all graduate students. GSA strives to improve campus life, support scholarly pursuits, and encourage graduate student community. Every week, GSA sends out announcements about upcoming events and opportunities. Check out http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/blog/ for weekly updates. Email gsa@vt.edu with any questions.

13. WAGE POSITION AS NEWS ANALYST AVAILABLE –  2nd posting
The Discovery Analytics Center of the VT Department of Computer Science in Arlington is looking to fill 3 wage positions for News Analysts. This is a 20-hrs/week, online, work from home position paying $20/hr. News Analysts will be responsible for reading news articles in Arabic, Portuguese and Spanish and extracting information from them. Analysts are trained on how to record the extracted information. Requirements: proficiency with at least one of these three languages; knowledge of and interest in world and regional politics; excellent written and spoken communication skills. Email application by EOD Dec 9 to parang@cs.vt.edu with a subject line: Application for News Analyst, including detailed CV; list of languages you know, along with your proficiency level; brief note (300 words max) on why are you interested in this opportunity. Complete info at http://dac.cs.vt.edu/job-opening/6-month-onlinework-from-home-wage-position-at-discovery-analytics-center-department-of-computer-science-vt/. Some restrictions may apply for employment of international students.

14. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BEHAVIORAL AND NEURO-IMAGING STUDY ON SOCIAL ATTITUDES – 1st posting
VTCRI researchers are recruiting subjects for a behavioral and neuroimaging study on social attitudes. Participants will:  Answer questionnaires and complete assessments;  Play simple computer games during an MRI scan;  Receive $30-50 for their participation;  Receive a CD of their brain images from the MRI scan. Must be: 18-30 years old; Caucasian (White American) born citizen of the United States; free of metal implants; not claustrophobic. If you meet these requirements and are interested in participating, email participate@vtc.vt.edu or call Lauren at 540-526-2120 or Riley at 540-526-2068.

15. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY ON HARDWARE DESIGN – 1st posting
The VT Configurable Computing Machinery Lab is looking for participants for a research study on a new tool being developed for automatic suggestion of reusable designs. Participants will be asked to design two simple circuits in Verilog to test the effectiveness of such a tool. Email Kevin Zeng at kaiwen@vt.edu to set up a time or if there are any questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

GRADUATE SCHOOL WINTER BREAK CLOSING
The Graduate School will be closed from 5:00pm Dec 23, through Jan 3, 2016. We will reopen with regular business hours at 8:00am on Monday, Jan 4.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE: CONTINUING THE FIGHT FOR INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE
Monday, Jan 18, 10:00am – 2:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room, GLC
Participate in an interactive session using case studies to learn, discuss, and craft the next steps in the struggle for graduate student success. Hear a briefing by Vice President and Dean Dr. Karen DePauw about InclusiveVT and responses to last year’s MLK Day forum. Students are highly encouraged to participate in the process and work with university administrators in Creating an Affirming Environment: Eradicating academic bullying in graduate education. Lunch provided.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays, 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
• Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. FINANCIAL AID LOAN REPAYMENT INFO SESSION
Monday, Dec 7, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room G
If you are graduating in the near future and having to start repaying students loans is looming around the corner, this info session might be just what you need! Financial Aid staff will walk you through the repayment planning process and discuss all the things you need to know! After the info session they will offer one-on-one advising in the GLC on Wednesday and Thursday 8:30-12 and Friday 1-5.

3. FINANCIAL AID LOAN REPAYMENT ONE-ON-ONE ADVISING SESSIONS
Wednesday, Dec 9, 8:30-12:00, Room F
Thursday, Dec 10, 8:30-12:00, Room D
Friday, Dec 11, 1:00-5:00, Room A
Stop by to see an advisor from University Scholarships and Financial Aid office and discuss your particular options for loan repayment. For more information contact Stephanie Breeding at sbreed@vt.edu.

4. PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Dec 9, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Join fellow Hokie parents and a representative from NRVCares to talk about programs in the community that might be valuable to graduate student families. Please register at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-december1 if planning to attend.

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

6. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

7. GLC CAFÉ: MORE WHIPPED CREAM
Thursday, Dec 10, 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Enjoy some coffee or hot chocolate with whipped cream galore!

8. WORK/LIFE BALANCE WORKSHOP FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
Thursday, Dec 10, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Room C
Stressed over the end of the semester? As a part of the Graduate School’s professional development series, a team of graduate students in the Department of Population Health Sciences is facilitating a work/life balance training program that focuses on sleep, time management, and work/life stress. Learn about effective time-management practices aimed at improving physical, mental, and professional health. Light refreshments will be provided. Please register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1449453565417 if planning to attend.

9. GLC COMMUNITY GAME NIGHT
Thursday, Dec 10, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Lounge
Unwind before finals week with some good old-fashioned board games! The GLC Fellows host a game night full of fun, food, and friendly competition. There will be Pictionary, Giant Jenga, and Apples to Apples, just to name a few. If you have any questions, email Scarlet Soult at scarlet7@vt.edu.

10. GRAD-UGRAD MENTORING PROGRAM SEEKING MENTORS – 1st posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields! This program allows graduate students to mentor undergraduate students considering graduate school. Undergraduates and graduates are matched according to their area of study, allowing the undergraduate to get a taste for graduate school and to ask questions of current graduate students. Each mentor is matched with 1–2 mentees, who will shadow/meet with them at times convenient for the graduate mentor during the Spring semester. Mentoring can help build leadership skills and provide an experience to discuss with future employers. GUMP is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly(GSA). Email to gump@vt.edu with any questions. If interested, apply at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1448905481133.

11. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED – 1st posting
The Academy for GTA Excellence (https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/jwrgrad/academy-for-advanced-teaching-and-transforming-learning-aattl/) invites applications for Academy member, Associate, and Fellow in its Learning Community. The Academy provides opportunities for graduate students to receive advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies. It also provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to graduate students at all VT campuses. Applications are available at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3Vsd1V1nnizMkqp; and nominations or recommendation form at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_4PzjmrgAFGhBQUt; both are due Saturday, Jan 30. For questions about the Academy, contact VP and Dean for Graduate Education Karen P. DePauw (kpdepauw@vt.edu) or Nicole J. Johnson (nicj712@vt.edu).

13. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION OPEN THROUGH JANUARY 1
The 32nd Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium and Exposition will take place on March 23, 2016 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between November 8, 2015 and January 1, 2016 at 11:59pm (EST). Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Please read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience. Contact the Research Symposium and Exposition Chairs (Anthony Carno and Yesim Keskin) at gsa.syposium16@gmail.com with any questions.

14. GSA WEEKLY UPDATES AVAILABLE ONLINE
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the governing body representing all graduate students. GSA strives to improve campus life, support scholarly pursuits, and encourage graduate student community. Every week, GSA sends out announcements about upcoming events and opportunities. Check out http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/blog/ for weekly updates. Email gsa@vt.edu with any questions.

15. WAGE POSITION AS NEWS ANALYST AVAILABLE –  1st posting
The Discovery Analytics Center of the VT Department of Computer Science in Arlington is looking to fill 3 wage positions for News Analysts. This is a 20-hrs/week, online, work from home position paying $20/hr. News Analysts will be responsible for reading news articles in Arabic, Portuguese and Spanish and extracting information from them. Analysts are trained on how to record the extracted information. Requirements: proficiency with at least one of these three languages; knowledge of and interest in world and regional politics; excellent written and spoken communication skills. Email application by EOD Dec 9 to parang@cs.vt.edu with a subject line: Application for News Analyst, including detailed CV; list of languages you know, along with your proficiency level; brief note (300 words max) on why are you interested in this opportunity. Complete info at http://dac.cs.vt.edu/job-opening/6-month-onlinework-from-home-wage-position-at-discovery-analytics-center-department-of-computer-science-vt/. Some restrictions may apply for employment of international students.

16. GRAD WAGE POSITION OPEN IN OIRED – 3rd posting
Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is looking for a graduate student (wage) to work up to 20 hrs/wk on projects and initiatives, including providing support to project development and efforts to identify and respond to project funding opportunities. The grad student will contribute to proposal preparation and help with the due diligence and research that goes into responses to funding opportunities.  S/he will support ongoing project work as appropriate. Preference is for a student with experience and/or demonstrated interest in working internationally. To apply, send your resume to Lia Kelinsky, liak9@vt.edu by Dec 11, 2015.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

GLC CAFÉ: BOOK SWAP EDITION
Thursday, Dec 17, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room or Lobby
Celebrate the end of the semester and the end of the year with the final café of 2015, combined with a book swap. Bring books and take some, or just take books to read during the break. Share your favorite titles with grad students and Grad School colleagues over coffee, tea, hot chocolate, hot cider, and cookies. The café will be on a break on Dec 24 and 31, but will return on Jan 7, 2016!

GRADUATE COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
Friday, Dec 18, 3:00pm, Cassell Coliseum
Join in the celebration of our graduating master’s and doctoral students and certificate recipients. For details visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/commencement_info. This event will be live streamed.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays, 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
• Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. WORKSHOP ON REPRODUCIBLE RESEARCH BY CENTER FOR OPEN SCIENCE
Monday, Nov 30, 2:00pm, Newman Library Multipurpose Room (1st floor)
Researchers can take many actions to increase the openness and reproducibility of their work. Learn easy, practical steps to increase the reproducibility of your work during this hands-on workshop presented by Courtney Soderberg, Center for Open Science. Using example studies, attendees will actively participate in creating a reproducible project from start to finish. Topics covered: Project documentation; Version control; Pre-Analysis plans; Open source tools like the Center for Open Science’s Open Science Framework to easily implement these concepts in a scientific workflow. The workshop is aimed at those engaged in quantitative research; it does not require any specialized knowledge of programming. Participants will gain a foundation for incorporating reproducible, transparent practices into their current workflows. For more information contact Andi Ogier, alop@vt.edu.

3. AUDITIONS FOR ‘SETNET’ WRITTEN AND DIRECT BY GRAD STUDENT
Monday, Nov 30, 7:00-10:00pm, Theater 201
Tuesday, Dec 1, 7:00-10:00pm, Theater 201
Setnet is the story of the fishermen in remote Alaska, who are trying to survive another salmon season and each other. It is a raucous adventure play that includes a capella singing. Auditions will be done in hour-long slots. Sign up for a slot by emailing naphtalifields@gmail.com. The cast is 7 male, 1 female. Prepare a one-minute monologue of your choice, and a short (30 second) song to be sung a capella. Auditioning students will read sides during the audition, work on some group movement, and sing together. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Naphtali Fields at naphtalifields@gmail.com.

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

5. WRITING CENTER INFORMATION SESSIONS ON FORMING WRITING SUPPORT GROUPS
Thursday, Dec 3, 12:00-1:30, GLC Room F
Friday, Dec 4, 1:00-2:30, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with writing your thesis, dissertation, journal articles, and more? Would you like some help finding other graduate students to form a writing support group? The Writing Center and the Graduate School are facilitating the forming of writing support groups. Attend one of these information sessions to learn how a writing group may help you stay on task, how to become a member of a writing group, and other techniques that may help you along the way. Can’t make it to the above dates? Check back at the VT Writing Center website– additional information sessions will be offered in the beginning of the spring semester.

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

7. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

8. GLC CAFÉ: WHIPPED CREAM EDITION
Thursday, Dec 3, 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Enjoy some coffee or hot chocolate with whipped cream galore!

9. VT PAWS SPECIAL EDITION @ GLC
Thursday, Dec 3, 6:30-7:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GLC Fellows invite you to relieve some stress with the amazing VT PAWS Therapy animals. Students from the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine will be there with their dogs and cats. Come hang out, spend some time with the animals, take a break from studying, and relax! To learn more about VT PAWS, visit https://www.facebook.com/VTHelpingPAWS/?fref=ts or http://www.vetmed.vt.edu/vthelpingpaws/. If you have any questions, contact GLC fellow Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu. 

10. DIWALI 2015 CELEBRATION: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Sunday, Dec 6, 5:00-9:00pm, Burruss Hall and Squires Commonwealth Ballroom
Be a part of the Diwali and New Year celebrations hosted by the VT Indian Student Association. Diwali, also known as Deepavali and the “festival of lights,” is an ancient Indian festival that signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair. Participate in the biggest Indian cultural show, fireworks and authentic Indian dinner. For more information visit http://www.isa.org.vt.edu/.

11. GSA WEEKLY UPDATES AVAILABLE ONLINE
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is the governing body representing all graduate students. GSA strives to improve campus life, support scholarly pursuits, and encourage graduate student community. Every week, GSA sends out announcements about upcoming events and opportunities. Check out http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/blog/ for weekly updates. Email gsa@vt.edu with any questions.

12. DIVERSITY SCHOLAR PROGRAM NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH DEC 10 – 3rd posting
Are you committed to the awareness, knowledge, and skills associated with diversity and inclusion? Are you interested in making Virginia Tech a more inclusive place? If yes, then you should consider becoming a Diversity Scholar. Learn more about the program at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/diversity/scholars_program

13. BOUCHET GRADUATE HONOR SOCIETY NOMATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH NOV 20 – 3rd posting
The VT Graduate School is one of the few universities with a Bouchet Honor Society Chapter. The Society recognizes outstanding scholarly achievement and promotes diversity and excellence in doctoral education and the professoriate. For more information visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/Bouchet_Society.

14. VT ENGAGE: PERU SERVICE IMMERSION TRIP – 3rd posting, deadline today
Participate in a service immersion trip to contribute to environmental education and rainforest preservation activities, or maintenance at ARCA’s education center, or build solar showers and contribute to native tree reforestation in Peru. Leave with a greater understanding of Peruvian life in the Amazon rainforest and the high Andes, culture & history, nonprofit work, & of the diversity of perspectives our team will bring to the week. All undergraduate and graduate students may apply.  Need-based financial assistance is available. Apply at http://www.globaleducation.vt.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=12203 by Nov 30, 2015.  Questions? Contact Eliza at VT Engage, elizaw8@vt.edu, 540.231.5853.

15. 2016 FIW GRAD STUDENT ASSOCIATION CALENDARS FOR SALE – 3rd posting
Need holiday gifts or some color in your office? Students in the VT Fish and Wildlife Graduate Student Association in the College of Natural Resources and the Environment are selling 2016 calendars that highlight their work around the world. Each month features a color photo taken by a student and showcases research on species such as elephants, shorebirds, freshwater mussels, lions, and hellbenders. One calendar is $15; two or more are $12 each. Download an order form at http://www.cnre.vt.edu/students/graduate/order-forms/wildlife-calendar-order-form.pdf. Email fiwgsa@gmail.com with any questions.

16. GRAD WAGE POSITION OPEN IN OIRED – 2nd posting
Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is looking for a graduate student (wage) to work up to 20 hrs/wk on projects and initiatives, including providing support to project development and efforts to identify and respond to project funding opportunities. The grad student will contribute to proposal preparation and help with the due diligence and research that goes into responses to funding opportunities.  S/he will support ongoing project work as appropriate. Preference is for a student with experience and/or demonstrated interest in working internationally. To apply, send your resume to Lia Kelinsky, liak9@vt.edu by Dec 11, 2015.

17. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR SENSORY PANELS
Tuesday, Dec 1, Hummus Panel  10:00-4:00
Wednesday, Dec 2, Spice Panel 10:00-4:00
Thursday, Dec 3, Spice Panel 10:00-4:00
All panels at HABB1 Building, Rm 205 @ corner of Duck Pond Drive and Washington St SW. Hokie Express at the building Sensory evaluation takes only 15 minutes and will continue until quota is met. You and your friends are eligible to participate; up to 100 panelists needed each day. Go every day if you can and earn "stamps" towards gift cards for each day you participate. If you participate in every day of panels you will earn a $10 gift card in just one week. Check www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechSensoryEvaluationLaboratory for updates.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

FINANCIAL AID LOAN REPAYMENT INFO SESSION
Monday, Dec 7, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room G
If you are graduating in the near future and having to start repaying students loans is looming around the corner, this info session might be just what you need! Financial Aid staff will walk you through the repayment planning process and discuss all the things you need to know! After the info session they will offer one-on-one advising in the GLC on Wednesday and Thursday 8:30-12 and Friday 1-5.

PARENT SUPPORT LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Dec 9, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Join fellow Hokie parents and a representative from NRVCares to talk about programs in the community that might be valuable to graduate student families. Please register at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-december1 if planning to attend.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC
Weekly services are on hiatus this week in observance of Thanksgiving break. The Graduate School will remain open for walk-in advising through Wednesday at noon.

2. T-BREAK LUNCH 2015
Tuesday, Nov 24, 11:30am-1:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
You are not alone! Join others who don’t get to leave for Thanksgiving break for some soup (meat and vegetarian options) and conversation. For dessert there will be pie (and other sweet indulgences)! Meet other graduate students, international students, and Grad School, Cranwell and Division of Student Affairs staff, and enjoy some soup, bread, and a variety of home-made pies. Please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1447451357943 to help us estimate the food that will be needed. This event is co-sponsored by the Graduate School and the Cranwell International Center.

3. GRADUATE STUDENT LUNCH WITH PRESIDENT SANDS – apply by 11/27
The Graduate Representative to the Board of Visitors invites members of the graduate student community to have lunch with President Sands to engage in a conversation around graduate education and the graduate student experience. This is a unique opportunity for graduate students to ask questions and get answers directly from VT leaders. If you are interested in attending a lunch on Wednesday, Dec 2, complete this survey by Friday, Nov 27. If you have any questions, contact Mohammed Seyam at seyam@vt.edu

4. GSA WEEKLY ANNOUNCEMENTS AVAILABLE ONLINE
Keep up with the happenings in the Graduate Student Assembly by following their weekly newsletter online: http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/blog/. Their weekly news may include calls for application, invitations to grad student surveys, information about GSA funding programs, and other timely announcements. For more information contact Emma Potter, GSA director of communication, ecp3f@vt.edu.

5. DIVERSITY SCHOLAR PROGRAM NOMINATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH DEC 10 – 2nd posting
Are you committed to the awareness, knowledge, and skills associated with diversity and inclusion? Are you interested in making Virginia Tech a more inclusive place? If yes, then you should consider becoming a Diversity Scholar. Learn more about the program at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/diversity/scholars_program

6. BOUCHET GRADUATE HONOR SOCIETY NOMATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH NOV 20 – 2nd posting
The VT Graduate School is one of the few universities with a Bouchet Honor Society Chapter. The Society recognizes outstanding scholarly achievement and promotes diversity and excellence in doctoral education and the professoriate. For more information visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/Bouchet_Society.

7. VT ENGAGE: PERU SERVICE IMMERSION TRIP – 2nd posting
Participate in a service immersion trip to contribute to environmental education and rainforest preservation activities, or maintenance at ARCA’s education center, or build solar showers and contribute to native tree reforestation in Peru. Leave with a greater understanding of Peruvian life in the Amazon rainforest and the high Andes, culture & history, nonprofit work, & of the diversity of perspectives our team will bring to the week. All undergraduate and graduate students may apply.  Need-based financial assistance is available. Apply at http://www.globaleducation.vt.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgram&Program_ID=12203 by Nov 30, 2015.  Questions? Contact Eliza at VT Engage, elizaw8@vt.edu, 540.231.5853.

8. 2016 FIW GRAD STUDENT ASSOCIATION CALENDARS FOR SALE – 2nd posting
Need holiday gifts or some color in your office? Students in the VT Fish and Wildlife Graduate Student Association in the College of Natural Resources and the Environment are selling 2016 calendars that highlight their work around the world. Each month features a color photo taken by a student and showcases research on species such as elephants, shorebirds, freshwater mussels, lions, and hellbenders. One calendar is $15; two or more are $12 each. Download an order form at http://www.cnre.vt.edu/students/graduate/order-forms/wildlife-calendar-order-form.pdf. Email fiwgsa@gmail.com with any questions.

9. WHITE HOUSE FELLOW APPLICATION CYCLE NOW OPEN – 3rd posting
The 2016-2017 White House Fellows application cycle is open until Jan 12, 2016. This program seeks to recruit the most promising leaders in the US to gain first-hand high-level experience in the federal government and develop themselves as leaders. The fellowship year consists of a full-time work placement in the offices of Cabinet Secretaries, senior White House staff, and other high-ranking administration officials. Fellows also participate in a robust education program that provides a behind-the-scenes look at leadership in government, non-profits, business, the media and more. For more information, contact Betty Watts in the Global Education Office at bettyw@vt.edu.

10. REGISTRATION FOR INTL STREET FAIR IS NOW OPEN – 3rd posting
Request for Booth Space at the 57th annual International Street Fair organized by Cranwell Intl Center and CISO is open at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/83521 until Dec 11, 2015. International and cultural student groups are invited to participate in this cultural exchange, and celebrate and share their traditions and heritage as a way to foster meaningful interactions throughout the VT and local community. The annual event is scheduled for Sunday, Apr 17, 2016, 12:00-5:00pm on College Avenue near Squires Student Center. Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) and University Chartered Student Organizations (USCOs) as well as VT-affiliated organizations may participate.

11. GRADUATE SCHOOL BABYSITTER CLEARING HOUSE – 3rd posting
The Graduate School Babysitter Clearing House is open for business! Parents can begin visiting the Childcare website to gain access to this program starting Monday, Nov 9. Email childcare@vt.edu with any questions. Visit http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/childcare/forms/ for information.

12. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION OPEN THROUGH JAN 1 – 3rd posting
The 32nd Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium and Exposition will take place on Mar 23, 2016 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between Nov 8, 2015 and Jan 1, 2016 at 11:59pm (EST). Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Please read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience. Contact the Research Symposium and Exposition Chairs (Anthony Carno and Yesim Keskin) at gsa.symposium16@gmail.com with any questions.

13. GSA GRADUATION CAP & GOWN LOANER PROGRAM – 3rd posting
Are you graduating with a master’s or doctoral degree this fall? If yes, you might be eligible to borrow a free graduate cap and gown from the GSA! This program loans a limited number of graduation gowns and caps to graduate students participating in Fall 2015 graduation ceremonies. Caps and gowns must then be returned to the GSA after the ceremonies. Interested students should fill out a survey at https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/special-programs/gsa-graduation-gown-rental-program/ by Friday, Nov 20, 2015, 5:00pm (EST) to be entered into a lottery. Winners will be notified no later than Nov 24. Note that all gowns have been dry cleaned; caps will not be cleaned due to their internal material. Contact GSA Events and Special Programs Chair Kisha Gresham at kiwi@vt.edu with questions.

14. GRAD WAGE POSITION OPEN IN OIRED – 1st posting
Office of International Research, Education, and Development (OIRED) is looking for a graduate student (wage) to work up to 20 hrs/wk on projects and initiatives, including providing support to project development and efforts to identify and respond to project funding opportunities. The grad student will contribute to proposal preparation and help with the due diligence and research that goes into responses to funding opportunities.  S/he will support ongoing project work as appropriate. Preference is for a student with experience and/or demonstrated interest in working internationally. To apply, send your resume to Lia Kelinsky, liak9@vt.edu by Dec 11, 2015.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

WORKSHOP ON REPRODUCIBLE RESEARCH BY CENTER FOR OPEN SCIENCE
Monday, Nov 30, 2:00pm, Newman Library Multipurpose Room (1st floor)
Researchers can take many actions to increase the openness and reproducibility of their work. Learn easy, practical steps to increase the reproducibility of your work during this hands-on workshop presented by Courtney Soderberg, Center for Open Science. Using example studies, attendees will actively participate in creating a reproducible project from start to finish. Topics covered: Project documentation; Version control; Pre-Analysis plans; Open source tools like the Center for Open Science’s Open Science Framework to easily implement these concepts in a scientific workflow. The workshop is aimed at those engaged in quantitative research; it does not require any specialized knowledge of programming. Participants will gain a foundation for incorporating reproducible, transparent practices into their current workflows. For more information contact Andi Ogier, alop@vt.edu.

AUDITIONS FOR ‘SETNET’ WRITTEN AND DIRECT BY GRAD STUDENT
Monday, Nov 30, 7:00-10:00pm, Theater 201
Tuesday, Dec 1, 7:00-10:00pm, Theater 201
Setnet is the story of the fishermen in remote Alaska, who are trying to survive another salmon season and each other. It is a raucous adventure play that includes a capella singing. Auditions will be done in hour-long slots. Sign up for a slot by emailing naphtalifields@gmail.com. The cast is 7 male, 1 female. Prepare a one-minute monologue of your choice, and a short (30 second) song to be sung a capella. Auditioning students will read sides during the audition, work on some group movement, and sing together. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Naphtali Fields at naphtalifields@gmail.com.

WRITING CENTER INFORMATION SESSIONS ON FORMING WRITING SUPPORT GROUPS
Thursday, Dec 3, 12:00-1:30, GLC Room F
Friday, Dec 4, 1:00-2:30, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with writing your thesis, dissertation, journal articles, and more? Would you like some help finding other graduate students to form a writing support group? The Writing Center and the Graduate School are facilitating the forming of writing support groups. Attend one of these information sessions to learn how a writing group may help you stay on task, how to become a member of a writing group, and other techniques that may help you along the way. Can’t make it to the above dates? Check back at the VT Writing Center website– additional information sessions will be offered in the beginning of the spring semester.

FINANCIAL AID LOAN REPAYMENT INFO SESSION
Monday, Dec 7, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room G
If you are graduating in the near future and having to start repaying students loans is looming around the corner, this info session might be just what you need! Financial Aid staff will walk you through the repayment planning process and discuss all the things you need to know! After the info session they will offer one-on-one advising in the GLC on Wednesday and Thursday 8:30-12 and Friday 1-5.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 9/21

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays, 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
• Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. PANEL ON WHITE PRIVILEGE, FEATURING TIM WISE
Tuesday, Nov 3, 12:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Students are encouraged to participate in this lunch discussion with the author of “Dear White America,” Tim Wise, and faculty panelists. Lunch begins at noon and discussion to start at 12:30pm. Please register for this event as space is limited: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cZ7vCjrHAw275Rj. Contact grad student Stephanie House-Niamke at stepha4@vt.edu with any questions.

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

4. GUAC TALK WITH THE DEAN
Wednesday, Nov 4, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Lounge
Stop by to chat with Karen DePauw, Vice President and Dean of the Graduate School, and fellow graduate students while enjoying some delicious Chipotle guacamole and salsa! This event is come-and-go and free to all graduate students; hosted by the Graduate Student Assembly.

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

6. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Nov 5, 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Now that many of you have GLC special-edition mugs, post your "mug shots" (a photo of you and your GLC mug, or your mug at home or in your office, or however you want to interpret mug shot) at https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC. The best entry, as judged very subjectively by Monika Gibson, will earn a Starbucks gift certificate for someone!

8. KIDS NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP-IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, starting Sep 10, 2015 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center
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); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO 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. NOVEMBER RECHARGE
Thursday, Nov 5, 6:00-9:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
It has been a long semester and the time has come for a recharge. Join the GLC Fellows as they offer opportunities for you to recharge your mind, body, and soul. There will be games, crafts, activities, and healthy food, all aimed at promoting graduate student wellness. Be there! If you have any questions, email GLC Fellows Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu, Scarlet Soult at scarlet7@vt.edu, or Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu.

10. AUTUMN TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD
Friday, Nov 6, 6:00-8:30pm, Squires Commonwealth Ballroom
The Cranwell International Center presents this Keystone Experience event of intercultural connections, food, and music with Blacksburg’s international and local community. Vegetarian food options will be available. This year, in the spirit of "UT Prosim", it is requested that each attendee bring two cans of healthy food to donate; donations will be distributed via a local food pantry to help support local families in need. Register at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/internationalvt/Calendar/details/681147 if you are planning to attend.

11. INTERDISCIPLINARY HONOR SOCIETY NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting new applications for membership up through Friday, Nov 20. IDR was founded at Virginia Tech in 2011 by graduate students to promote and facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and the society offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Plus, there is food at meetings! Any students, graduate or undergraduate, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines, including science, engineering, business, or education, are encouraged to apply. More details about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

12. GRAD STUDENT MEMBERS SOUGHT FOR CAREER SERVICES ADVISORY BOARD  – 1st posting
Career Services is establishing a student advisory board to generate ideas, feedback and suggestions about a wide range of topics related to their mission and involving programming, technology, policies, outreach, etc.  Information about the advisory board and the application are at https://career.vt.edu/studentadvisoryboard.html. The application deadline is noon on Thursday, Nov 12. 

13. FINANCIAL AID GRAD E-NEWSLETTER – 3rd posting
Check out the latest edition of Scholarships & Financial Aid’s Grad E-news at http://www.finaid.vt.edu/Graduate-Students/Grad-Student-E-Newsletter-Oct-2015.pdf! Topics include scam aler, special message for those graduating in December, the impact of the continuous enrollment requirement on financial aid and more!

14. GSA GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FALL CYCLE OPEN –  2nd  posting
Do you have a research idea that deserves funding? Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program, which provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Doctoral students can receive up to $1,000; master’s students up to $750 to conduct their projects. The fall application cycle is open Oct 28 to Nov 13, 2015, with winners announced in early Dec. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Contact the GRDP Chair, Hannah Lane, at hglane07@vt.edu with any questions.

15. CISO LOGO DESIGN CONTEST – 2nd posting
The Council of International Student Organizations, CISO, is looking for a new logo! CISO is an umbrella organization that serves the needs of VT international through advocacy and programming such as Dance of Nations, Parade of Nations, and International Street Fair, which provide a platform for Virginia Tech’s international community to showcase the array of diverse cultures present in Blacksburg. CISO is looking for a creative and unique logo that captures the CISO mission. The logo should speak to the global conscientiousness that is present on campus in a thoughtful and inventive manner. It also needs to incorporate the letters “CISO” in some manner. In your design, please do not incorporate flags of actual countries. The design must adhere to university branding standards. Please refer to the Brand Guide for further guidance (https://www.branding.unirel.vt.edu/). The designer of the winning logo will win a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Submit your logo in jpg format at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3P3sGWq3B578doh.

16. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM FALL APPLICATION CYCLE – deadline this Friday!
If you’re planning to travel or have traveled to present your research at a scholarly conference between Jul 1 and Dec 31, 2015, consider applying for the Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP). Domestic/international travel by master’s/doctoral students are eligible. Applications accepted for the fall cycle from Monday, Oct 19 to Friday, Nov 6, 2015 at 11:59 PM. Visit http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/ for details and to apply. New this cycle: must submit a certification letter signed by your advisor or  committee member or department head; this will replace the ‘proof of peer review’ requirement in previous application cycles. The certification letter will be posted on the TFP application site. Contact Marie Stettler Kleine or Omchand Mahdu, TFP Co-Chairs at gradtravelfund1516@vt.edu with questions.

17. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Remaining Fall 2015 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Nov 10, 4:30-6:30 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
• Tuesday, Nov 17, 4:30-6:30 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
• Tuesday, Dec 1, 4:30-6:30 pm: Visualizing and Analyzing Spatial Data with R;

18. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN NLI – 1st posting
Network Learning Initiatives (NLI) is seeking a 12-month GA. Successful candidate must have experience providing support in an academic or professional setting; experience with instructional technologies, proficiency with computer functions such as word processing, spreadsheets, and database management; experience with standard computer software such as Word, Outlook, Excel, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.; good graphic design/web development skills, strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills, must be detail orientated and a team player, able to perform tasks in a timely manner; must have ability to interact comfortably and respectfully with all individuals in a diverse environment. Send resumes or CV to overtons@exchange.vt.edu by Friday, Nov 6.

19. SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS ARE SOUGHT BY VT LANGUAGE AND CULTURE INSTITUTE – 1st posting
The VT Language and Culture Institute at Virginia Tech is hiring substitute teachers. See https://www.lci.vt.edu/. Must have a master’s degree; linguistics, TESOL, English preferred, but other areas considered. Classes run Monday-Friday 8:00-9:50, 10:00-11:50, Monday-Thursday 12:00-12:50, 1:00-3:15 and 3:45-6:00. Contact Pamela Smart-Smith at smart1@vt.edu for more information.

20. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR RESEARCH ON IMPACT OF EXERCISE ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AND STRESS – 1st posting
Survey participants are sought for an MPH group training project. The survey consists of  only 11 questions and takes about 2 minutes to complete. The project explores how exercise improves academic performance and stress management. Survey participants will be invited to an interactive exercise training program that will take place on Friday, Dec 4, 11-1. Complete the survey online by Nov 11 at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_es2jNg53r2IyXs1.

21. RESEARCH STUDY FOR TEENAGERS AND PARENTS – 1st posting
Parents and adolescents (13-17 years old) are needed for a VT study of social and academic experiences. With their parent and a same-gender close friend, teens will be asked to complete questionnaires, conversation tasks, and a speech task. Participation should last 1.5 hours. Study is located on VT  Blacksburg campus. Teens, their participating friend, and participating parent are each given $10 gift certificate. Interested?  Call the VT Social  Development Lab at 540-231-8179 or email rlm527@vt.edu.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON SOCIAL ATTITUDES – 1st posting
VT Carilion Research Institute is recruiting subjects for a behavioral and neuroimaging study on social attitudes. Participants will: answer questionnaires and complete assessments; play simple computer games during an MRI scan; receive $30-50 for their participation; receive a CD of their brain images from the MRI scan. To be eligible, must be: 18-64 years old; Caucasian (White American) who is a born citizen of the US or a Chinese citizen studying in the U.S.; free of metal implants; not claustrophobic. If you meet the above requirements and are interested in participating, email to participate@vtc.vt.edu or call Lauren at 540-526-2120 or Riley at 540-526-2068.

23. PARENTS AND INFANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY – 1st posting
The infant-Language Emotion Attention Perception (i-LEAP) Lab in the VT Department of Psychology is seeking parents and their 13- 15-month-old infants for a study on early word-object learning to explore whether infants are influenced by social cues in their attempts to learn the names of new objects.  Infants are presented with short videos of a woman talking during which she says “Hi Baby” and then looks in the opposite direction of an object that appears to her left or right on a screen.  She then looks back at the baby and names the object.  Will the infants learn this relationship even though her gaze is not useful?  You and your infant can help answer this question!  All sessions last approximately 20-30 minutes and you are compensated $10 for your participation.  Older siblings are welcome to come along and there is convenient parking near the location.  Contact 540-231-3972 or emailing to iLeap@vt.edu if interested. Posted on behalf of doctoral student Laura Mills-Smith.

24. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ERGONOMICS & MANUFACTURING PRODUCTIVITY STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a VT research study investigating effects of ergonomic designs and interventions on manufacturing quality and productivity. Requirements: 18–35 years old; must have normal vision and no self-reported current or recent (past 1 year) musculoskeletal injuries, other health conditions. The experiment involves two sessions (one training, one data collection) in which you will be asked to perform a simulated drilling task using three different workstation configurations. Completing each session will take ~3 hours, and you will be compensated $10 per hour of participation. For further information and scheduling, contact grad student Saad at 206-859-9146 or iesaad@vt.edu.

25. HEALTH CARE UTILIZATION SURVEY FOR INTL GRAD STUDENTS – 2nd posting
VT international graduate students are invited to participate in a public health practicum project by taking an anonymous online survey that takes about 5-6 minutes to complete. The information you provide will help researchers identify the barriers international graduate students face in accessing health care services, and help develop ways to address the barriers in order to facilitate student’s access to health services and increase the quality of the available services for current and future students. Access the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_0uYO5CFMHRWS4Kh. If you have any questions, contact Fatemeh Zarghami at fatemehz@vt.edu or Dr. Kerry Redican at: kredican@vt.edu.

26. RESEARCH STUDY FOR TEENAGERS AND PARENTS – 2nd posting
Parents and adolescents (13-17 years old) needed for VT study of social and academic experiences. With their parent and a same-gender close friend, teens will be asked to complete questionnaires, conversation tasks, and a speech task. Participation should last 1.5 hours. Study is located on VT  Blacksburg campus. Teens, their participating friend, and participating parent are each given $10 gift certificate. Interested?  Call the Virginia Tech Social  Development Lab at 540-231-8179 or email grad student Rachel Miller Slough at rlm527@vt.edu.

27. DONATIONS SOUGHT FOR LITTLE HOKIES DONATE & SWAP – 2nd posting
Donate unused or gently used children’s items for ages 0-10. Items requested: toys, music/dvd/books, clothing (baby and maternity), formula, lactation devices, strollers, car seats, school supplies, bedding, bathing/grooming supplies, feeding supplies, etc. All donations can be dropped off at the GLC Welcome Center between Nov 4-17. On Nov 18 grad students and their families are invited to fill their bag with as many baby items as they need!

28. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE SURVEY ABOUT WORK-LIFE BALANCE – 2nd posting
A team of graduate students in the Department of Population Health Sciences are seeking participants to complete an online questionnaire on work-life balance in graduate school. The purpose of this survey is to: assess needs of graduate students regarding work-life balance; inform the design of a health education training workshop to address work-life balance for graduate students; and anticipate attendance for a training session to be held at the end of the Fall 2015 semester. The survey will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete and can be accessed at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6J7P265ovPM4fop.  If you have any questions, please Katherine Williams at kathw@vt.edu.

29. ONLINE NEEDS ASSESSMENT SURVEY ABOUT FOOD SECURITY AMONG GRAD/NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS – 2nd posting
Graduate students are invited to take this IRB-approved online survey about needs assessment of food insecurity amongst graduate students and nontraditional students on VT’s campus. Access the survey at https://vce.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_0oBAmrOmGTju8Xr. Contact Meredith Johnson at meredil@vt.edu with any questions.

30. FORMER CO-TEACHERS SOUGHT FOR GRADUATE RESEARCH STUDY – 3rd posting
Grad students in a qualitative methods in educational research class are conducting a study on co-teaching to explore the perceptions of interactions that take place during that experience. Anyone who has engaged in co-teaching at VT within the past two years may participate in a face-to-face interview of about 45-60 minutes. The interview will be audio-recorded and can occur in your office or another quiet area of your choice. Open-ended questions will be related to co-teaching experience, educational philosophy, and perceptions of your co-teaching partner’s approach to teaching. Participation is voluntary and confidential. For more information or to sign up, contact grad student John Morelock at morelock@vt.edu.

31. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH DAY – 3rd posting
The Math Department will be hosting an event this fall that will bring middle school students to campus for a morning of math activities with the goal of encouraging girls to remain interested in mathematics. Volunteers are needed for Friday, Nov 13 with visiting students arriving around 9:00am and leaving by 1:00pm (setup starting at 8 and cleanup until 2). Volunteers are needed to help lead or aid in activities, guide students on campus, and help with other day-of tasks, including set up and clean up. Volunteers do not need to stay for the entire event. If interested or would like to know more, email doctoral student Mandy Welch (welcha1@vt.edu).

32. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR EYE GAZE & EMOTIONS PROJECT – 3rd posting
The Eye Gaze & Emotions Project of VT’s Psychology Department is seeking children between ages of 6-9 to contribute to the understanding of how kids read emotion. Parents/legal guardians complete questionnaires and children complete in-lab  tasks and computer games. Receive between $10-$20 and a toy for your child! Contact Lauren at (540) 231-9735; EyeGazeEmotions@gmail.com if interested.

33. CHILD VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATE TRAINING OPPORUTUNITY – 3rd posting
The VT Clinical Psychology graduate program seeks parents with children between the ages 7–17 to participate in a volunteer child assessment. This is a training exercise for entry level doctoral students in the Clinical Psychology program. The assessment will consist of 3 sessions, each lasting approximately 2-3 hrs. The graduate student will administer cognitive, achievement, and behavioral assessments tests to your child. The parent will also be asked to complete a diagnostic interview with the student. If you are interested in volunteering your child for this assessment, contact Rachel Miller-Slough (rlm527@vt.edu) and provide your contact information (email and phone number) and a rough idea of when you would be available during October. A graduate student will then contact you to schedule the sessions. Assessments are conducted at the Child Study Center (460 Turner St.), supervised by Dr. Susan White (Dir of Child Assessment Clinic). Volunteers receive $30.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

HOKIE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Nov 11, 12:00-1:30, GLC Room D
Join a group of Hokie parents for support and information sharing. This month participants will hear from Anna LoMascolo, representative of the VT Women’s Center, about programs and initiatives that can benefit your family. Register online at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-november1 if you plan to attend.

CISO PRESENTS:  DANCE OF NATIONS
Wednesday, Nov 11, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Join the Council of International Student Organizations and our many international students in celebrating the cultural diversity of the Hokie Nation through dance. The event is free and open to the general public. For more information contact grad student Noha at noha@vt.edu.

OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES IN TEACHING AND LEARNING: WHAT, WHY, AND HOW
Monday, Nov 16, 10:00-12:00, Newman Library Multipurpose Room (first floor)
The University Libraries, Center for Instructional Development & Educational Research (CIDER), and Technology enhanced-Online Learning Strategies (TLoS) will welcome Eddie Watson, director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at the University of Georgia and expert on open educational resources, to lead several workshops. For more information visit https://www.lib.vt.edu/libnews/2015/2015-10-22.html.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATING INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH
Monday, Nov 16, 12:30-2:00pm, GLC Room B
Join Dr. Amy Pruden, professor on civil and environmental engineering and associate dean for interdisciplinary education in the Graduate School, for a workshop on navigating interdisciplinary research. Bring your own lunch!

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 9/21

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays, 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
• Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. GLC 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT
Monday-Friday, Oct 19-23
Graduate students are invited to participate in the hunt and win prizes (Kindle Fire, fitbit, and more). Clues are posted on our social media outlets throughout the week (https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC and https://twitter.com/VTGradCommunity among others). Submissions are accepted in three forms: photos via social media or by email to grads@vt.edu, or raffle ticket submissions. Check our social media for the clues starting today. Good luck!

3. ENVISIONING VT: BEYOND BOUNDARIES
Monday, Oct 19, 7:30-8:30pm, Torgersen 1060
Virginia Tech is currently engaged in a campus-wide visioning initiative that will address two interrelated goals: advancing Virginia Tech as a global land-grant institution, and strategically addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the changing landscape of higher education. Graduate students are invited to join project co-chair Rosemary Blieszner, committee member Karen DePauw, and Beyond Boundaries staff in a Graduate Student Input Session to share their ideas about the next generation of Virginia Tech.  Refreshments will be provided.

4. WORLD STATISTICS DAY: ENVISIONING THE 21ST CENTURY GLOBAL LAND GRANT TO BUILD RESEARCH CAPACITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Tuesday, Oct 20, 5:00-7:00pm, Goodwin Hall Auditorium
VT’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) hosts this event to highlight its in-progress effort to teach statistical and data-science methods in developing countries in a bid to help scientists solve real-world problems and make true data-based decisions. Provost Thanassis Rikakis will provide opening remarks, followed by LISA Director Eric Vance. Additional speakers include Ian Crandell of Valley Center, California, and doctoral student in statistics who taught statistics in Nigeria, and Karl Markgraf, associate vice president of international affairs at Virginia Tech.

5. VA SCIENCE FESTIVAL PRESENTS: COMMUNICATING SCIENCE
Tuesday, Oct 20, 7:00-8:30pm, Alexander Black House (204 Draper Avenue)
Attend this exciting workshop, based on the “Communicating Science” program designed by Alan Alda to help scientists understand how to use theatre improv and other exercises to be better communicators. Audience members will be invited to participate in sample communication exercises. Contact Andrae Hash for more details hashas@vt.edu.

6. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Oct 20, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A in front of Au Bon Pain at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Posted on behalf of grad student Amr Nabil, anabil@vt.edu.

 

7. CRANWELL INT’L CTR GLOBAL AMBASSADOR PROGRAM INTEREST MEETINGS

Tuesday, Oct 20, 4:00pm, Cranwell’s Community Room in Harper Hall

Friday, Oct 30, 1:00pm, Cranwell’s Community Room in Harper Hall

The Global Ambassadors program is an engaging leadership development program designed for current VT students seeking to develop their global leadership skills. Global Ambassadors are charged with welcoming new international students to the VT community and continuing meaningful interactions with students and the community throughout the academic year. For more information, application and reference form, visit www. International.vt.edu.

8. SUMMON USABILITY STUDY
Wednesday, Oct 21, 11:00am-12:00pm, 3310 Torg (along the bridge)
Thursday, Oct 22, 1:00-2:00pm
Participate in the Library’s usability study on Summon, to help improve the search engine. No experience with Summon is necessary; come any time during the scheduled hour; takes 10 minutes or less. Participants will receive a gift bag. For more information contact Tracy Gilmore, tgilmore@vt.edu, at University Libraries.

9. NATIVE AMERICAN CONNECT LUNCH
Wednesday, Oct 21, 12:00-1:00pm, 238 GLC (Graduate School conference room, 2nd floor GLC)
Would you like to connect with other graduate students and faculty/ staff that identify with the Native American community? If yes, don’t miss out on this great opportunity. The Graduate School hosts this luncheon to facilitate dialogue and fellowship. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXbQu1hn93OmC9 if you plan to attend. If you have any questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

10. WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR? – AN EVENING OF PROTEST MUSIC
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:00pm, P. Buckley Moss Museum, Gilbert St, Bburg
Part of #BigReadNRV. For the featured music event of the NRV’s Big Read, Mark and Jeff will play songs of protest against war, from "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye" to "Devils and Dust,” complete with superb coffee from local roaster/brewer: Strange Coffee. Join for a night of music, discussion, and great conversation in a lovely venue. Suggested donation $15 VETERANS IN SOCIETY FUNDRAISER. http://monkeyhouseconcerts.net/upcoming_concerts__reservations. Posted on behalf of grad student Heather Lyne, hlyne27@vt.edu.

11. NAPPY EDGES & GOLDY LOCKS: THE RACE AND GENDER POLITICS OF HAIR
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:30pm, 3100 Torg
For African Americans, attitudes toward and responses to hair go beyond “big hair” and a “bad hair day.” This presentation examines the complex racial and gender identity politics of head hair. From Barbie, Britney, and Rapunzel to Pocahontas and Beyoncé, Lester shows how a national controversy was generated around the issue of African American hair in a children’s book, Carolivia Herron’s Nappy Hair, and how the issue of hair is central to certain ideals of beauty and femininity. An interactive presentation, this one uses dolls, folklore, music, literature, advertisements, and commercials to interrogate the extent to which African Americans have and have not moved from internalized problematic notions of “good” and “bad” hair. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Devon Lee, devonlee@vt.edu.

12. MELANCHOLY PLAY: A CONTEMPORARY FARCE BY SARAH RUHL
Wednesday-Friday, Oct 21-23, 7:30pm, Theatre 101
Dive into a deep well of sadness with Tilly as every character falls in love with her melancholic outlook. Laugh, cry, and sing along with a play that connects us to the beauty of life and death. Free tickets may be reserved in advance online: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/melancholy-play-oct-21-23-free-tickets-18401143315. Directed by MFA grad student Kristin Rose Kelly.

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

14. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, starting Oct 8, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

15. GLC CAFÉ: DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN MUG; WE’LL GIVE YOU ONE!
Thursday, Oct 22, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. This week, however, is extra special! Stop by the Multipurpose Room to get a special-edition anniversary mug, enjoy some freshly brewed coffee or tea from ABP along with their signature cookies, and add your mark to a community art project celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC. Leave your fingerprint on our canvas and forever be part of the GLC!

16. KIDS NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP-IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, starting Sep 10, 2015 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center
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); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO 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.

17. OPEN ACCESS KEYNOTE: SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION IN THE ERA OF BIG DATA AND BIG COMPUTATION
Thursday, Oct 22, 7:00pm, Davidson 281
Featured speaker Dr. Victoria Stodden from the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, offers this keynote address as part of Open Access Week 2015. All graduate students are welcome and encouraged to attend.

18. GLC 10th ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION
Friday, Oct 23, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join the Graduate School, Housing and Residence Life, and Student Engagement and Campus Life, and other supporters and friends of the GLC to commemorate the opening of the Graduate Life Center in 2005. Enjoy a display of the building’s history, view the newest entries in our traditional graduate student photo and art contest, add your finger mark to a GLC canvas, and enjoy some refreshments. Short remarks at 4:00pm. Please register by emailing to grads@vt.edu; add GLC 10 in the subject line. See http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/GLC10.html for more details.

19. GSA FALL BEER AND WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Oct 23, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its fall beer and wine social, which will once again showcase local, national, and international beer and wine, while providing graduate students the opportunity to network among researchers and colleagues. Bring proper identification for those 21+ who wish to drink. Admission: $10 for general, $5 for GSA delegates, and $5 for non-drinking participants. This event is cash only and open to the public. Want to gain free admission? Volunteer to help with the event! If you are interested in volunteering, contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1619367071647599/.

20. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP FALL RETREAT – register now!
Friday, Oct 23, 8:00pm – Sunday, Oct 25, 12:00pm, near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $30 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/fall-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) with any questions.

21. GRADUATE STUDENT TAILGATE
Saturday, Oct 24, 1:00-3:00PM, Lawn between GLC and University Club
Join your fellow graduate students for a VT vs. Duke football tailgate at the Graduate Life Center! Music, lawn games, some snacks and drinks provided. We hope to see you there! If you have questions, email grads@vt.edu. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.

22. DURGA PUJA AND DANCE NIGHT
Sunday, Oct 25, 2:00-9:30pm, Commonwealth Ballroom in Squires
The VT Indian Student Association and Bengali Student Association are coming together to have a mega celebration of Durga Puja and Dance Night. Durga Puja is a festival of Hindus celebrated by worshipping Goddess Durga, and marks the victory of Good over Evil. Dance Night celebrates Garba Dance of Gujarat (with Dandiya Sticks) along with all other types of Indian dances ranging from Bollywood to Freestyle. Details at https://www.facebook.com/events/805021026285478/. Posted on behalf of grad student Garima Malhotra.

23. FINANCIAL AID GRAD E-NEWSLETTER
Check out the latest edition of Scholarships & Financial Aid’s Grad E-news at http://www.finaid.vt.edu/Graduate-Students/Grad-Student-E-Newsletter-Oct-2015.pdf! Topics include scam aler, special message for those graduating in December, the impact of the continuous enrollment requirement on financial aid and more!

24. SIGN UP FOR THE CRANWELL COURIER – 1st posting
A key component of Cranwell International Center’s mission is to provide opportunities for intercultural engagement between the VT international community and Blacksburg’s residents from all backgrounds. In that spirit, they publish a weekly newsletter, the Cranwell Courier, which lists upcoming events that are focused on diversity, inclusion and global citizenship as well as a variety of fun local activities throughout the New River Valley. Subscribe online at http://international.us9.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=78700cc006b0eb4ee596c8572&id=ace51269ad, or view the latest edition at http://eepurl.com/bCx_l5.

25. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR CULTURAL SHOW FOR DIWALI – 1st posting
The Indian Students Association invites all interested students to participate and showcase their talent this Diwali season at Virginia Tech. Be a part of one of the biggest cultural shows on campus with singing, dancing, acting and entertaining! Students interested in participating at the Diwali cultural show should contact grad student Trisha Sanwal (trishas@vt.edu)  by Oct 23.

26. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM FALL APPLICATION CYCLE -1st posting
If you’re planning to travel or have traveled to present your research at a scholarly conference between Jul 1 and Dec 31, 2015, consider applying for the Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP). Domestic/international travel by master’s/doctoral students are eligible. Applications accepted for the fall cycle from Monday, Oct 19 to Sunday, Nov 6, 2015 at 11:59 PM. Visit http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/ for details and to apply. New this cycle: must submit a certification letter signed by your advisor or  committee member or department head; this will replace the ‘proof of peer review’ requirement in previous application cycles. The certification letter will be posted on the TFP application site. Contact Marie Stettler Kleine or Omchand Mahdu, TFP Co-Chairs at gradtravelfund1516@vt.edu with questions.

27. APPLICATION LIVE – INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RESEARCH EXPERIENCE (IRES) IN U.K. – 2nd  posting
Open to VT engineering students (ugrad, or graduate student graduating after May 2016) in ECE, ISE, ME, MME or MSE or students in other disciplines who have taken course work in power electronics or human factors. Minimum GPA of 3.0 in major. Must be a U.S. citizen/permanent resident. Apply by Oct 30, 2015. The application can be found online at www.eng.vt.edu/international/ires/. Must provide an official transcript(s), personal statement and two letters of recommendation. Submit application and required documents and any questions to: Heather Lyne engabroad@vt.edu.

28. EVENING CHILD CARE NOW AVAILABLE! – 2nd posting
The Little Hokie Hangout is offering evening slots starting 10/13. These slots will be for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 4-7pm. The Little Hokie Hangout is a parent cooperative child care program being offered by the Graduate School to Virginia Tech families. For a registration form and more information please email childcare@vt.edu.

29. NEW GRAD COURSE FOR SPRING ON STEM WORKFORCE POLICY – 2nd posting
Dr. Denise Simmons, assistant professor in the VT Myers-Lawson School of Construction, is offering a new graduate course in spring 2016 on STEM workforce policy. Would you like to develop a policy brief and a program informed by policy? Ever wonder how policy impacts STEM initiatives? If so, visit https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_40oCAP1ozuKuE3r to learn more about the course and indicate your interest and availability. For more information contact Dr. Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

30. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Remaining Fall 2015 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Oct 27, 4:30-6:30 pm: Multivariate Clustering Analysis;
• Tuesday, Nov 3, 4:30-6:30 pm: Intro to SAS University Edition;
• Tuesday, Nov 10, 4:30-6:30 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
• Tuesday, Nov 17, 4:30-6:30 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
• Tuesday, Dec 1, 4:30-6:30 pm: Visualizing and Analyzing Spatial Data with R;

31. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – deadline today!
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC  by participating in the next GLC photo and art contest! Theme: (Snapshots) of Graduate Student Life. Get creative and submit whatever depicts you as a grad student. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 19.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

32. PART-TIME WAGE POSITION OPENING IN OFFICE OF ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION – 2nd posting
The Alternative Transportation Assistant will provide customer service to patrons, including  instructing patrons in bicycle maintenance and repair, registering bikes for faculty, staff, and students, answering questions about alternative transportation programs offered by the university, as well as assisting visitors with daily visitor parking permits and staffing the customer service desk. Learn more at https://listings.jobs.vt.edu/postings/60463. International students may not be eligible for this position if it requires more than 20 hrs/wk of work.

33. TWO ASSISTANTSHIP OPENINGS IN TLOS – 3rd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a  unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) (www.tlos.vt.edu)  is seeking two Graduate Assistants to work with the instructional design and course development, digital media, video editing and production, graphics and web development, digital imaging, assessment, project management and research staff of the unit. These GAs will provide direct support to faculty developing courses and will also be focused on the transition of courses from Scholar to Canvas and adherence to accessibility requirements. Graduate students with experience in any of the above areas are encouraged to submit a resume or CV attached to an email to lbaab@vt.edu, describing how their talents and abilities could contribute to the work of the unit.

34. FORMER CO-TEACHERS SOUGHT FOR GRADUATE RESEARCH STUDY – 1st posting
Grad students in a qualitative methods in educational research class are conducting a study on co-teaching to explore the perceptions of interactions that take place during that experience. Anyone who has engaged in co-teaching at VT within the past two years may participate in a face-to-face interview of about 45-60 minutes. The interview will be audio-recorded and can occur in your office or another quiet area of your choice. Open-ended questions will be related to co-teaching experience, educational philosophy, and perceptions of your co-teaching partner’s approach to teaching. Participation is voluntary and confidential. For more information or to sign up, contact grad student John Morelock at morelock@vt.edu.

35. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH DAY – 1st posting
The Math Department will be hosting an event this fall that will bring middle school students to campus for a morning of math activities with the goal of encouraging girls to remain interested in mathematics. Volunteers are needed for Friday, Nov 13 with visiting students arriving around 9:00am and leaving by 1:00pm (setup starting at 8 and cleanup until 2). Volunteers are needed to help lead or aid in activities, guide students on campus, and help with other day-of tasks, including set up and clean up. Volunteers do not need to stay for the entire event. If interested or would like to know more, email doctoral student Mandy Welch (welcha1@vt.edu).

36. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR EYE GAZE & EMOTIONS PROJECT – 1st posting
The Eye Gaze & Emotions Project of VT’s Psychology Department is seeking children between ages of 6-9 to contribute to the understanding of how kids read emotion. Parents/legal guardians complete questionnaires and children complete in-lab        tasks and computer games. Receive between $10-$20 and a toy for your child! Contact Lauren at (540) 231-9735; EyeGazeEmotions@gmail.com if interested.

37. CHILD VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATE TRAINING OPPORUTUNITY – 1st posting
The VT Clinical Psychology graduate program seeks parents with children between the ages 7–17 to participate in a volunteer child assessment. This is a training exercise for entry level doctoral students in the Clinical Psychology program. The assessment will consist of 3 sessions, each lasting approximately 2-3 hrs. The graduate student will administer cognitive, achievement, and behavioral assessments tests to your child. The parent will also be asked to complete a diagnostic interview with the student. If you are interested in volunteering your child for this assessment, contact Rachel Miller-Slough (rlm527@vt.edu) and provide your contact information (email and phone number) and a rough idea of when you would be available during October. A graduate student will then contact you to schedule the sessions. Assessments are conducted at the Child Study Center (460 Turner St.), supervised by Dr. Susan White (Dir of Child Assessment Clinic). Volunteers receive $30.

38. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY  – 2nd posting
VT researchers seek mostly female and some male participants for a 2-hr study on performing push trim tasks. The study simulates an industrial task to establish acceptable limits of dynamic forces that will be very important to predict industrial recommendations. Participants will be asked to perform a repetitive task simulating automotive trim assembly, involving striking activities with the hand/fist. The experiment will be done a laboratory setting in the ISE department. Must be age 18-30, female or male, no current or recent history of musculoskeletal problems. Participants will be paid $10/hr. For more information contact Helen Nogueira at nogueira@vt.edu.

39. STUDENT CONDUCT COMMITTEES SEEK VOLUNTEERS – 2nd posting
The Office of Student Conduct is seeking graduate students to serve on Student Conduct Committees that adjudicate hearings for behavioral, non-academic interventions of individuals and organizations in the Virginia Tech community. Qualified candidates should demonstrate ethical decision-making, the ability to work as part of a team, and a commitment to Virginia Tech’s values and the Student Code of Conduct. Students who participate develop listening skills, empathy, and a deeper knowledge of the various facets of student experience at Virginia Tech. The office is especially interested in graduate student volunteers, as well as international and other underrepresented minority volunteers. Apply at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/81556 or contact Cathryn Schwing at cschwing@vt.edu. This message is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

40. ONLINE SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
A VT faculty member is seeking to know more about what activities you and other VT students choose to participate in. Participating in activities outside the classroom can help students develop critical professional skills, and this survey aims to find out if this is true for VT students. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_2fpqCVFIhCCylOl and encouraging others to do it as well. The link provides instructions for survey takers; explains consent, your rights, drawings for gift cards, age requirements; and lists contact persons. Any student in any major at VT can respond to the survey. For more information contact Dr. Denise Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

41. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS ABOUT COLLEGE AVE PROMENADE IN DOWNTOWN BLACKSBURG – 2nd posting
A team of Qualitative Research graduate students is conducting research to describe how the College Avenue Promenade creates places for gathering that engage VT graduate students and facilitates social interactions. The College Avenue Promenade (CAP) area is located outdoors on College Avenue in downtown Blacksburg and runs from the edge of the Virginia Tech campus near Squires to the Cellar restaurant. Qualification for the interview: VT graduate students who are at least 18 and have used the CAP at least once. Participants will be asked to take part in a 45-60 minute audio recorded interview at the Graduate Life Center. If you are interested in participating or have any questions, contact Karen Gilbert at karengilbert@vt.edu, 540-231-0722.

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

43. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE STUDY – 3rd posting
Graduate student researchers are conducting a study to investigate how specific actions affect balance. The study takes approximately 15-20 minutes and will involve standing still for two minutes and performing one of several actions, such as silently counting. Qualifications are: 18-30 years of age, no problems balancing, no history of dizziness, no recent knee or ankle injuries, and no concussions within the previous year. You will be compensated $10 for participating. The protocols in this study have been approved by the VT IRB (IRB#15-795). If interested, contact Peter Fino, 559 Whittemore Hall, fino@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS @VT FOCUS GROUP TO EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES
Tuesday, Oct 27, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
If you consider yourself a non-traditional student (characterized by one or more of criteria including 30 or over for grads; have family and/or work responsibilities; first-generation; veteran; etc), join this focus group discussion hosted by grad student and citizen scholar Robin Atkins, as part of a Citizen Scholar Seminar project. The outcome of the focus group will inform the creation of a resource fair and panel discussion. For more information contact Robin at atkinsrw@vt.edu, 231-9457.

TOUR OF VIRGINIA TECH’S WARE LAB
Wednesday, Oct 28, 12:45pm, Meet in GLC Lobby
Join fellow graduate students for a behind-the-scene’s tour of Virginia Tech’s advanced engineering lab, the Ware Lab. Led by an engineering graduate student, the tour will feature current projects in the robotics lab, machine shop, Formula SAE lab, and more! Meet in the GLC lobby by the Welcome Center at 12:45 and walk over together. Space is limited, so please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6hU9stGeaLXXVkN in advance.

GLC MOVIE NIGHT
Wednesday, Oct 28, 7:00-9:00pm, GLC Lounge
Celebrate the season with a Halloween themed movie! The Graduate Fellows will be hosting a movie night full of fun, food, and frights. If you get scared, you can always hug the Donaldson Brown Bear. If you have any questions, email GLC Fellow Kevin Parker at kmpark07@vt.edu.

MY SISTER’S KEEPER: THRIVING IN A COMPETITIVE FIELD
Thursday, Nov 5, 11:00am, Owen’s Dining Roo
Join a conversation with Desiree Reed-Francois,  Executive Associate Athletics Director/SWA at Virginia Tech. Lunch will be served. Please register by Nov 1 at  http://goo.gl/forms/sRBP1z1sbH. Program sponsored by Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP), and posted on behalf of grad student Delight Yokley, b18409y@vt.edu.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 9/21

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays (starting Sep 23), 2:00-5:00 GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling: Thursday & Friday 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• Graduate School regular hours: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Immigration advising hours: MWF 1:00-5:00pm, TTh 9:00am-12:00pm
• LISA Statistical Consulting: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-12pm, GLC Room A
• Writing assistance: Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm, GLC Room A

2. STUDENT SELFIES NEEDED FOR GLC BROCHURE
Monday, Oct 12, 3:00-4:00pm, Meet in GLC Lobby
The Graduate School is working a University Relations graphic designer on a new GLC map/brochure which will also include "selfie" photos of graduate students at various locations in the building. The Grad School needs your help! If you are interested in being in a "photoshoot" this afternoon and potentially have your picture in the print product, please meet in the GLC Lobby by the Welcome Center at 3:00pm. Selfies will be taken at selected spots throughout the building with the guidance of the graphic designer leading the project. You bring your smile, and we will bring you free coffee!

3. MILK SENSORY PANELS
Monday 10/12: 10:00am-5:00pm- Carol Lee Donut Super Snack
Tuesday 10/13: 10:00am-5:00pm- DOUBLE gift card points
All at HABB1 Bldg, Rm 205, corner of Duck Pond Dr and Washington St SW
Sensory evaluation on milk – see if you can identify different samples. Only takes ~15 minutes. Come and bring your friends! 144 panelists needed each day. Anyone 18+ years old who does not have milk allergies is encouraged to participate. Get free snacks every day for participating. Contact master’s student Hayley Potts at hpotts45@vt.edu for more information.

4. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Oct 13, 7:00pm, GLC Student Org Suite conference area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the second Tuesday of every month. Join the group to learn more about anxiety disorders and OCD, hear success stories from those who have worked to overcome their anxiety and OCD, and receive support in an informal setting. Family members and significant others are also welcome. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact the Psychological Services Center at 231-6914, visit www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc or email ajsmith1@vt.edu.

5. DISCOVER ISLAM
Tuesday, Oct 13, 12:00-2:00pm, Info Booth A in front of Au Bon Pain at Squires
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world with more than 1.6 billion followers. Muslims come from almost every country in the world and speak almost every language. Learn more about Islam from your Muslim colleagues: stop by, ask questions, get your free copy of Quran interpretation in English, view Islamic art from different countries, get your name in Arabic, and enjoy tasty Arabian dates. Hosted by the Islamic Student Assembly (ISA). Posted on behalf of grad student Amr Nabil, anabil@vt.edu.

6. PARENT SUPPORT GROUP LUNCHEON
Wednesday, Oct 14, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Join fellow Hokie parents for this monthly meeting. As always, lunch is provided, and spouses/partners and children are more than welcome. This month’s speaker is Jessica Wirgau, president of Smart Beginnings, who will talk about programs and initiatives in the area relevant to families with young children, and the importance of quality early childhood education. Please email childcare@vt.edu with any questions. Register at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-october if you plan to attend.

7. ARABIC COFFEE HOUR
Wednesday, Oct 14, 4:30-5:30, Major Williams Atrium
During this informal gathering, students, faculty, and anyone interested in Arabic will have the chance to enjoy Arabic coffee and sweets, practice their Arabic, and learn more about the Arabic program (particularly the new Arabic minor). Participants will have a chance to learn about VT Arabic Oman for summer 2016, VT’s first Arabic study abroad program, with guest speacker Rachel Fitzgerald form the Global Education Office who will discuss different scholarships available and explain the application process of VT Arabic Oman. Learn more about this opportunity to visit the Middle East, improve your Arabic language skills, and experience Arabic culture. Free snacks and sweets available. This free event is hosted by the Arabic Language Club and the Arabic Program. This message is posted on behalf of grad student Turki Al Zahrani, turki82@vt.edu

8. WHY DID PANGEA BREAK UP? – A RESEARCH A LA MODE PRESENTATION
Wednesday, Oct 14, 5:30-6:30pm, 2062 Derring (Museum of Geosciences)
250 million years ago all the continents were together as the supercontinent of Pangea, but after 50 million years Pangea began to rift apart forming the continents of today. There have been many suggestions for what caused the rifting of Pangea, but none so far really fit with all the geologic data. In this talk graduate student Lisa Whalen discusses the latest idea for why Pangea may have broken up and some interesting things about Pangea she discovered along the way. Come support graduate students learning to communicate their science and enjoy free ice cream after the workshop. Send questions to Lisa at lashley@vt.edu.

9. BABY NIGHT AT THE LYRIC
Wednesday, Oct 14, 7:00pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy an evening out with no cooking, dishes, or a babysitter! Baby night is a chance for new parents to get out and see a movie they want to see, not just an animated or children’s film, without having to leave your baby at home. All babies and grown-ups are welcome (recommended for babies age 1 and under)! Dimmed lighting, reduced volume, changing facilities in the auditorium, stroller parking in the lobby.

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

11. OVER 30 THURSDAYS
Thursdays, starting Oct 8, 12:30-3:30pm, Room D
Did you know? The Grads Over 30 group has reserved space in the GLC (Room D) for each Thursday this semester for those wanting a space to study, meet other students or just hang out. No formal agenda, just an open space to get work done!

12. GLC CAFÉ: GLC-10TH ANNIVERSARY PROJECT
Thursday, Oct 15, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Stop by this week to add your mark to a community art project celebrating the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC. Leave your fingerprint on our canvas and forever be part of the GLC!

13. KIDS NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP-IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, starting Sep 10, 2015 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center
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); no need to pre-register. Games, toys, books, crafts, homework help, and plenty of fun for participants. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO 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.

14. GLC HAPPY HOUR
Friday, Oct 16, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC side patio (Bookstore side behind the shrubs), or GLC student lounge in case of rain
Celebrate fall break at the GLC happy hour on the GLC side patio. Graduate students and faculty are invited to enjoy good conversation over a glass of wine or beer and light snacks. Cash bar: wine $5/glass; beer $4/bottle; soft drinks $2; light snacks provided by the Graduate School. Cash or credit card accepted. Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu with questions.

15. SALT MARSH SUITE – INSTALLATION AND PERFORMANCE
Member opening: Friday, Oct 16, 5:00-9:00pm, 7:00 and 7:15pm; tickets are $10
Gallery performances: Saturday, Oct 24, 12:00-2:00; free and open to the public
Salt Marsh Suite, an installation and performance co-directed by Virginia Tech’s Carol Burch-Brown and Ann Kilkelly, is showing at the Taubman Museum in Roanoke, Virginia from October 3 through January 10. Details are at: http://www.taubmanmuseum.org/main/exhibitions/salt-marsh-suite. All grad students are invited! Posted on behalf of ICAT grad assistant Kristin Kelly, krkelly@vt.edu.

16. APPLICATION LIVE – INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RESEARCH EXPERIENCE (IRES) IN U.K. – 1st posting
Open to VT engineering students (ugrad, or graduate student graduating after May 2016) in ECE, ISE, ME, MME or MSE or students in other disciplines who have taken course work in power electronics or human factors. Minimum GPA of 3.0 in major. Must be a U.S. citizen/permanent resident. Apply by Oct 30, 2015. The application can be found online at www.eng.vt.edu/international/ires/. Must provide an official transcript(s), personal statement and two letters of recommendation. Submit application and required documents and any questions to: Heather Lyne engabroad@vt.edu.

17. EVENING CHILD CARE NOW AVAILABLE! – 1st posting
The Little Hokie Hangout is offering evening slots starting 10/13. These slots will be for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 4-7pm. The Little Hokie Hangout is a parent cooperative child care program being offered by the Graduate School to Virginia Tech families. For a registration form and more information please email childcare@vt.edu.

18. NEW GRAD COURSE FOR SPRING ON STEM WORKFORCE POLICY – 1st posting
Dr. Denise Simmons, assistant professor in the VT Myers-Lawson School of Construction, is offering a new graduate course in spring 2016 on STEM workforce policy. Would you like to develop a policy brief and a program informed by policy? Ever wonder how policy impacts STEM initiatives? If so, visit https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_40oCAP1ozuKuE3r to learn more about the course and indicate your interest and availability. For more information contact Dr. Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

19. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GRAD JOURNAL ‘SPECTRA’ – 2nd posting
Spectra, the ASPECT (Alliance for Social, Political, Ethical, and Cultural Thought) graduate journal, is currently seeking submissions for its next issue.  Submissions on research at the intersections of the social sciences, the natural sciences, the humanities, and the arts are especially encouraged.  Potential submissions can include essays, reflection pieces, book reviews, and multimedia.  Abstracts for consideration are due by Oct 15.  For more info go to https://spectrajournal.org/index.php/SPECTRA/announcement/view/6.  Email any questions to Jordan Laney and Anthony Szczurek at editor@spectrajournal.org.

20. PEO INTERNNATIONAL PEACE SCHOLARSHIP FOR INTL GRAD WOMEN – 3rd posting
This scholarship is designed for women who are qualified for admission to full-time graduate study, working toward a graduate degree in the college or university she will attend. Requirements: Applicants must not hold U.S. or Canadian citizenship or permanent residency; must submit a witnessed statement certifying that upon completion of degree program, she will return to her own country to pursue her professional career; must have a full year of course-work remaining and be enrolled and on campus for the entire school year. Doctoral students who have completed coursework and are working on dissertation only are not eligible as first-time applicants. The maximum scholarship for one year of study is $10,000, based upon need (year runs from August to August). Complete details are available at http://www.peointernational.org/about-peo-international-peace-scholarship-ips. Send questions to Terry Arthur at arthurt@cs.vt.edu.

21. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS BY LISA
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Remaining Fall 2015 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Oct 20, 5:00-7:00 pm: World Statistics Day Celebration: Re-envisioning the 21st Century Global Land Grant University to Build Research Capacity in Developing Countries;
• Tuesday, Oct 27, 4:30-6:30 pm: Multivariate Clustering Analysis;
• Tuesday, Nov 3, 4:30-6:30 pm: Intro to SAS University Edition;
• Tuesday, Nov 10, 4:30-6:30 pm: Comparing Means and Other Measures of Location between Two Populations by Significance Tests and Effect Size;
• Tuesday, Nov 17, 4:30-6:30 pm: Data Analytics – Classification;
• Tuesday, Dec 1, 4:30-6:30 pm: Visualizing and Analyzing Spatial Data with R;

22. INTERDISCIPLINARY HONOR SOCIETY NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is accepting new applications for membership up through Friday, Nov 20. IDR was founded at Virginia Tech in 2011 by graduate students to promote and facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation, research, and networking at VT and other universities. Currently there are more than 20 active members and the society offers opportunities to network with professionals and peers, present your own work at an annual poster day, and attend spotlight talks given by individuals heavily involved in interdisciplinary work. Plus, there is food at meetings! Any students, graduate or undergraduate, who are actively involved in research combining multiple disciplines, including science, engineering, business, or education, are encouraged to apply. More details about the society, membership requirements, and the membership application can be found at http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application. Direct questions to VP of membership, Shabnam Kavousi, at shabnamk@vt.edu.

23. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – one more week to go!
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC  by participating in the next GLC photo and art contest! Theme: (Snapshots) of Graduate Student Life. Get creative and submit whatever depicts you as a grad student. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 19.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

24. PART-TIME WAGE POSITION OPENING IN OFFICE OF ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION – 1st posting
The Alternative Transportation Assistant will provide customer service to patrons, including  instructing patrons in bicycle maintenance and repair, registering bikes for faculty, staff, and students, answering questions about alternative transportation programs offered by the university, as well as assisting visitors with daily visitor parking permits and staffing the customer service desk. Learn more at https://listings.jobs.vt.edu/postings/60463. International students may not be eligible for this position if it requires more than 20 hrs/wk of work.

25. TWO ASSISTANTSHIP OPENINGS IN TLOS – 2nd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a  unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) (www.tlos.vt.edu)  is seeking two Graduate Assistants to work with the instructional design and course development, digital media, video editing and production, graphics and web development, digital imaging, assessment, project management and research staff of the unit. These GAs will provide direct support to faculty developing courses and will also be focused on the transition of courses from Scholar to Canvas and adherence to accessibility requirements. Graduate students with experience in any of the above areas are encouraged to submit a resume or CV attached to an email to lbaab@vt.edu, describing how their talents and abilities could contribute to the work of the unit.

26. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY  – 1st posting
VT researchers seek mostly female and some male participants for a 2-hr study on performing push trim tasks. The study simulates an industrial task to establish acceptable limits of dynamic forces that will be very important to predict industrial recommendations. Participants will be asked to perform a repetitive task simulating automotive trim assembly, involving striking activities with the hand/fist. The experiment will be done a laboratory setting in the ISE department. Must be age 18-30, female or male, no current or recent history of musculoskeletal problems. Participants will be paid $10/hr. For more information contact Helen Nogueira at nogueira@vt.edu.

27. STUDENT CONDUCT COMMITTEES SEEK VOLUNTEERS – 1st posting
The Office of Student Conduct is seeking graduate students to serve on Student Conduct Committees that adjudicate hearings for behavioral, non-academic interventions of individuals and organizations in the Virginia Tech community. Qualified candidates should demonstrate ethical decision-making, the ability to work as part of a team, and a commitment to Virginia Tech’s values and the Student Code of Conduct. Students who participate develop listening skills, empathy, and a deeper knowledge of the various facets of student experience at Virginia Tech. The office is especially interested in graduate student volunteers, as well as international and other underrepresented minority volunteers. Apply at https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/81556 or contact Cathryn Schwing at cschwing@vt.edu. This message is sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

28. ONLINE SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
A VT faculty member is seeking to know more about what activities you and other VT students choose to participate in. Participating in activities outside the classroom can help students develop critical professional skills, and this survey aims to find out if this is true for VT students. Complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_2fpqCVFIhCCylOl and encouraging others to do it as well. The link provides instructions for survey takers; explains consent, your rights, drawings for gift cards, age requirements; and lists contact persons. Any student in any major at VT can respond to the survey. For more information contact Dr. Denise Simmons at densimm@vt.edu.

29. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS ABOUT COLLEGE AVE PROMENADE IN DOWNTOWN BLACKSBURG – 1st posting
A team of Qualitative Research graduate students is conducting research to describe how the College Avenue Promenade creates places for gathering that engage VT graduate students and facilitates social interactions. The College Avenue Promenade (CAP) area is located outdoors on College Avenue in downtown Blacksburg and runs from the edge of the Virginia Tech campus near Squires to the Cellar restaurant. Qualification for the interview: VT graduate students who are at least 18 and have used the CAP at least once. Participants will be asked to take part in a 45-60 minute audio recorded interview at the Graduate Life Center. If you are interested in participating or have any questions, contact Karen Gilbert at karengilbert@vt.edu, 540-231-0722.

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

31. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE STUDY – 2nd posting
Graduate student researchers are conducting a study to investigate how specific actions affect balance. The study takes approximately 15-20 minutes and will involve standing still for two minutes and performing one of several actions, such as silently counting. Qualifications are: 18-30 years of age, no problems balancing, no history of dizziness, no recent knee or ankle injuries, and no concussions within the previous year. You will be compensated $10 for participating. The protocols in this study have been approved by the VT IRB (IRB#15-795). If interested, contact Peter Fino, 559 Whittemore Hall, fino@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

GLC PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT
Monday-Friday, Oct 19-23
Graduate students are invited to participate in the hunt and win prizes (Kindle Fire, fitbit, and more). Submissions are accepted in three forms: photos via social media or by email to grads@vt.edu, or raffle ticket submissions. Check our social media outlets (https://www.facebook.com/VirginiaTechGLC, and https://twitter.com/VTGradCommunity for the clues starting next Monday!

NATIVE AMERICAN CONNECT LUNCH
Wednesday, Oct 21, 12:00-1:00pm, 238 GLC (Graduate School conference room, 2nd floor GLC)
Would you like to connect with other graduate students and faculty/ staff that identify with the Native American community? If yes, don’t miss out on this great opportunity. The Graduate School hosts this luncheon to facilitate dialogue and fellowship. Register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXbQu1hn93OmC9 if you plan to attend. If you have any questions, contact Whitley Johnson at whitley09@vt.edu.

WAR, WHAT IS IT GOOD FOR? – AN EVENING OF PROTEST MUSIC
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:00pm, P. Buckley Moss Museum, Gilbert St, Bburg
Part of #BigReadNRV. For the featured music event of the NRV’s Big Read, Mark and Jeff will play songs of protest against war, from "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye" to "Devils and Dust,” complete with superb coffee from local roaster/brewer: Strange Coffee. Join for a night of music, discussion, and great conversation in a lovely venue. Suggested donation $15 VETERANS IN SOCIETY FUNDRAISER. http://monkeyhouseconcerts.net/upcoming_concerts__reservations. Posted on behalf of grad student Heather Lyne, hlyne27@vt.edu.

NAPPY EDGES & GOLDY LOCKS: THE RACE AND GENDER POLITICS OF HAIR
Wednesday, Oct 21, 7:30pm, 3100 Torg
For African Americans, attitudes toward and responses to hair go beyond “big hair” and a “bad hair day.” This presentation examines the complex racial and gender identity politics of head hair. From Barbie, Britney, and Rapunzel to Pocahontas and Beyoncé, Lester shows how a national controversy was generated around the issue of African American hair in a children’s book, Carolivia Herron’s Nappy Hair, and how the issue of hair is central to certain ideals of beauty and femininity. An interactive presentation, this one uses dolls, folklore, music, literature, advertisements, and commercials to interrogate the extent to which African Americans have and have not moved from internalized problematic notions of “good” and “bad” hair. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Devon Lee, devonlee@vt.edu.

OPEN ACCESS KEYNOTE: SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION IN THE ERA OF BIG DATA AND BIG COMPUTATION
Thursday, Oct 22, 7:00pm, Davidson 281
Featured speaker Dr. Victoria Stodden from the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, offers this keynote address as part of Open Access Week 2015. All graduate students are welcome and encouraged to attend.

GLC 10TH ANNIVERSARY CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 22, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the GLC with a special weekly café in the Multipurpose Room. Get a special-edition GLC mug (while supplies last!), and enjoy coffee and refreshments from ABP, our GLC partner. Add your fingerprint to our canvas and forever become part of the GLC! Learn more about our anniversary events at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/GLC10.html.

GLC 10th ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION
Friday, Oct 23, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join the Graduate School, Housing and Residence Life, and Student Engagement and Campus Life, and other supporters and friends of the GLC to commemorate the opening of the Graduate Life Center in 2005. Enjoy a display of the building’s history, view the newest entries in our traditional graduate student photo and art contest, add your finger mark to a GLC canvas, and enjoy some refreshments. Short remarks at 4:00pm. Please register by emailing to grads@vt.edu; add GLC 10 in the subject line. See http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/GLC10.html for more details.

GSA FALL BEER AND WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Oct 23, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its fall beer and wine social, which will once again showcase local, national, and international beer and wine, while providing graduate students the opportunity to network among researchers and colleagues. Bring proper identification for those 21+ who wish to drink. Admission: $10 for general, $5 for GSA delegates, and $5 for non-drinking participants. This event is cash only and open to the public. Want to gain free admission? Volunteer to help with the event! If you are interested in volunteering, contact Chelsea Corkins at ccorkins@vt.edu. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1619367071647599/.

INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP FALL RETREAT – register now!
Friday, Oct 23, 8:00pm – Sunday, Oct 25, 12:00pm, near Lexington, VA (1.5 hours from VT)
All VT graduate students are welcome to join in a weekend of new friendships, indoor/outdoor recreation, Bible study and prayer in a relaxed setting away from campus. Cost is $30 (scholarships are available). Space is limited to 25 participants. For more information and to register online, visit <https://gcfvt.wordpress.com/fall-retreat/>. Contact Robert Howe (robahowe@gmail.com) with any questions.

GRADUATE STUDENT TAILGATE
Saturday, Oct 24, Start time TBA, Lawn between GLC and University Club
Join your fellow graduate students for a VT vs. Duke football tailgate at the Graduate Life Center! The game time has not been announced, but the tailgate will start two hours before kick-off. Music, lawn games, some snacks and drinks provided. We hope to see you there! If you have questions, email grads@vt.edu. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.