Posts

Posted on

May 18-24, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 5/18

  • Career Services advising: on hiatus until fall
  • Cook Counseling: Fridays 1:00-5:00pm in the summer, starting 5/29, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room – continues through summer
  • Graduate School summer hours May 18-Jul 31: 9:00am-4:00pm
  • Writing assistance: on hiatus until fall

2. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, May 21, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room or side patio
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. If it’s sunny and not too warm, we might be on the side-patio (near Bookstore side entrance behind the shrubs).

3. VT INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES, INC. OFFICE HOURS – 1st posting
The VT IP, Inc. is holding weekly office hours in the university library for any students who have questions about IP and commercialization; developing and protecting intellectual property;  navigating the technology transfer process; refining your business strategy for rapid growth; tapping into other entrepreneurial resources; building and financing a startup company. Hours are Wed & Thu 1:00 – 5:00pm in Port: Digital Research Commons, Room 3320 Torgersen Hall; Fri 9:00am–12:00pm at VTIP’s CRC office, 2200 Kraft Drive, Suite 1050. Walk-ins are welcome, or schedule an appointment at vtip.appointy.com to guarantee your time slot.

4. PROVIDE FEEDBACK ABOUT INCLUSIVE-VT INITIATIVES – 1st posting
Grad students are invited to provide feedback and comments about the InclusiveVT initiatives and efforts.  Your input is valuable.  To provide feedback, go to www.inclusive.vt.edu where you can view a summary report of the initiatives and progress made.  The title of the document is 2014-2015 Initiatives and Progress report. Please provide any feedback by Jun 2 at  https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_6W53WBiAiMXSCC9.

5. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR CISO BOARD MEMBERSHIP – 2nd posting
Nominations are accepted until May 15 for Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) Board Members. CISO represents and promotes international student organizations and their interest both individually and collectively; serves as a liaison between the intl student organizations and the university administration, campus organizations, wider university, and the Blacksburg community; provides a forum for the exchange of ideas and dissemination of information; coordinates collective activities of the international community; supports the integration of international students within the university campus. Apply/nominate at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1430519274240. To be eligible, a candidate must be one of the following: A student in one of CISO’s member organizations and/or a non-immigrant student visa holder, in good academic standing who will be enrolled for the full-time for the 2015-16 academic year. Self nominations accepted. Open offices: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Event Coordinator, Public Relations Officer and Webmaster. Nominees will be contacted at the conclusion of the nominating period and asked to participate in the ballot by offering a written statement of their candidacy. For more info contact Lyndsy Manz, ljmanz@vt.edu.

6. HOKIES FOR NEPAL EARTHQUAKE FUNDRAISING – 3rd posting
The VT Nepalese Student Association invites you to join their fundraising efforts in response to the recent earthquake that killed more than 7000 people and injured over 13,000. Millions of affected people are in dire need of food, medical supplies and shelter. Learn more about the effort and/or donate at http://www.nepal.org.vt.edu/nepalearthquake2015/.

7. GA POSITION FOR 2015-16 IN DIVERSITY DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE (DDI) – 1st posting
The DDI is searching for an experienced trainer to fill a ten-month graduate assistant position and serve as a member of the Diversity Education and Training team, participating in the planning, delivery, and assessment of diversity-focused professional development programming for VT faculty and staff. Specific responsibilities include: serving as a Principles of Community trainer; administering DDI assessments, including building course evaluations in Qualtrics, distributing evaluations, summarizing evaluation data, and sharing results; extending diversity education materials to broader audiences, including adapting presentations and maintaining Scholar sites and learning modules. Inquiries and applications may be directed to: Michele C. Deramo, 231-8596 or deramo@vt.edu.

8. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VISUALIZATION USER STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a study analyzing high-dimensional data through interaction.  Participants will be asked to analyze a dataset about animals using a tool developed by researchers who are interested in how the tool supports the analytical process and aids in finding interesting insights about the data.  Participation in the study is about one hour in Torgersen 3160; compensation is $10. Visit the calendar at https://www.google.com/calendar/selfsched?sstoken=UUE3N0NUcTJtX1l5fGRlZmF1bHR8MmRlYzA2ZTQyNGM5OWFhNzY3MzQ5MDdiMTlkNTI5YTE to sign up for a session. Appointments have been scheduled for the next few weeks. If you do not find a time that suits, please contact jzself@vt.edu. If you were/are enrolled in any of the following courses (CS 6724 Visual Analytics in Fall 2013; CS 5764 Information Visualization in Fall 2014; CMDA/CS/STAT 3654 Intro to Data Analytics and Visualization in Spring 2015), or are under 18 years of age, you are not eligible for the study. If you took the course in a different semester or are taking the course in the future, you are still eligible! Please contact Jessica Zeitz Self (jzself@vt.edu) with questions.

9. MOTHERS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON STRESS MANAGEMENT AND HEALTHY EATING – 2nd posting
Participation in this study involves attending four weekly meetings lasting 1.5 hours, a focus group, and a phone interview four weeks later. Participants will be asked to fill out surveys about their eating behavior and experience of stress at the beginning and end of the study, along with saliva samples and body measurements. The weekly sessions will focus on managing stress, slowing down, and healthy food. The focus group and interview will help researchers learn more about your experience in the program. Eligibility requirements: must be a mother 18 or older with a child 5 years or younger living in your home; not currently pregnant or breastfeeding; not participating in a weight loss program or diet. Participants will receive $10-85 based on level of participation. Date and time of program will be determined upon convenience for majority of participants. For more info contact Lauren by calling/texting (540)808.5358 or emailing slowdownvt@gmail.com.

10. 10-15-YEAR-OLD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY – 2nd posting
The Third Lab at Virginia Tech is interested in 10-15 year-olds, their friendships, communities, and whether and how they listen to music. Researchers are conducting a study, and may publish the results. Participating 10-15 year-olds will be asked to complete a short (5-10 minute) questionnaire each day for 14 days. Please email Michael Stewart at tgm@vt.edu to express interest, get more information or enroll your child in our 14-day study. Participants will be compensated. Your child’s participation is voluntary and confidential.

Posted on

May 11-17, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – break schedule; updated 5/11

  • Career Services advising: on hiatus until fall
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room – continues through summer
  • Graduate School summer hours May 18-Jul 31: 9:00am-4:00pm
  • Writing assistance: on hiatus until fall

2. SNACKS & CHATS PICNIC
Wednesday, May 13, 12:00-1:00pm, Grassy lawn adjacent to Harper Hall
The Cranwell International Center invites all international graduate students to take a break for some snacks and chats!  There will be a picnic-style celebration outside of Cranwell International Center at Harper Hall, complete with free food and lawn games. Celebrate the end of the school year with international friends and say goodbye to those who will be leaving Blacksburg. For more info contact Lyndsy Manz, ljmanz@vt.edu.

3. GLC CAFÉ: END OF SEMESTER SPECIAL!
Thursday, May 14, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room side patio
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. To celebrate the end of the semester, there will be sweet and savory refreshments and fresh lemonade in addition to the usual coffee, tea and cookies. If it’s sunny, we might be on the side-patio (near Bookstore side entrance behind the shrubs).

4. GRADUATE COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY
Friday, May 15, 12:00pm, Cassell Coliseum
The Graduate School invites all graduating graduate students and their families to its spring commencement ceremony. The event will be streamed live on VT’s website. Doctoral candidates and their hooding professors should report to the Spring Road side of Cassell Coliseum to check in between 10:30-11:30am. Master’s, education specialist, and certificate candidates who are eligible to participate in Commencement should report to Cassell Coliseum between 10:30-11:30am and follow the signage to the check-in location in Gym 213. Lear more about commencement ceremonies at http://www.vt.edu/commencement/.

5. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR CISO BOARD MEMBERSHIP – 1st posting
Nominations are accepted until May 15 for Council of International Student Organizations (CISO) Board Members. CISO represents and promotes international student organizations and their interest both individually and collectively; serves as a liaison between the intl student organizations and the university administration, campus organizations, wider university, and the Blacksburg community; provides a forum for the exchange of ideas and dissemination of information; coordinates collective activities of the international community; supports the integration of international students within the university campus. Apply/nominate at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1430519274240. To be eligible, a candidate must be one of the following: A student in one of CISO’s member organizations and/or a non-immigrant student visa holder, in good academic standing who will be enrolled for the full-time for the 2015-16 academic year. Self nominations accepted. Open offices: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Event Coordinator, Public Relations Officer and Webmaster. Nominees will be contacted at the conclusion of the nominating period and asked to participate in the ballot by offering a written statement of their candidacy. For more info contact Lyndsy Manz, ljmanz@vt.edu.

6. HOKIES FOR NEPAL EARTHQUAKE FUNDRAISING – 2nd posting
The VT Nepalese Student Association invites you to join their fundraising efforts in response to the recent earthquake that killed more than 7000 people and injured over 13,000. Millions of affected people are in dire need of food, medical supplies and shelter. Learn more about the effort and/or donate at http://www.nepal.org.vt.edu/nepalearthquake2015/.

7. GRADUATE SCHOOL SUMMER HOURS
Starting Monday, May 18, the Graduate School’s student service area (120 Graduate Life Center) will be open Monday-Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm. Summer hours are in effect until Friday, Jul 31.

8. GRAD ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LEARNING EXPERIENCE DESIGN IN TLOS – 3rd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) is seeking a Graduate Assistant to help design and develop media-rich, high quality courses that incorporate active learning through technology. The GA will serve as part of a team of instructional designers, instructional support specialists, graphic and media designers, etc. who work with faculty to design and develop content, learning activities and assessments for online, hybrid, flipped, traditional and multi-modal classrooms both on campus and for distance learning. Must have a strong background in instructional design, educational media or related field and have experience working with faculty to complete projects. Experience teaching in higher education is not required but is preferred. If interested, email Dr. Lujean Baab at laab@vt.edu to respond with an indication of why you would like to join the LED team, the skills and experience you could contribute, etc. and attach a current resume/CV.  

9. MOTHERS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON STRESS MANAGEMENT AND HEALTHY EATING – 1st posting
Participation in this study involves attending four weekly meetings lasting 1.5 hours, a focus group, and a phone interview four weeks later. Participants will be asked to fill out surveys about their eating behavior and experience of stress at the beginning and end of the study, along with saliva samples and body measurements. The weekly sessions will focus on managing stress, slowing down, and healthy food. The focus group and interview will help researchers learn more about your experience in the program. Eligibility requirements: must be a mother 18 or older with a child 5 years or younger living in your home; not currently pregnant or breastfeeding; not participating in a weight loss program or diet. Participants will receive $10-85 based on level of participation. Date and time of program will be determined upon convenience for majority of participants. For more info contact Lauren by calling/texting (540)808.5358 or emailing slowdownvt@gmail.com.

10. 10-15-YEAR-OLD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY – 1st posting
The Third Lab at Virginia Tech is interested in 10-15 year-olds, their friendships, communities, and whether and how they listen to music. Researchers are conducting a study, and may publish the results. Participating 10-15 year-olds will be asked to complete a short (5-10 minute) questionnaire each day for 14 days. Please email Michael Stewart at tgm@vt.edu to express interest, get more information or enroll your child in our 14-day study. Participants will be compensated. Your child’s participation is voluntary and confidential.

11. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ETD-PLUS PROJECT – 3rd posting
VT grad students are invited to participate in the nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and University of North Texas, Purdue, Univ of North Carolina, Univ of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon Univ, UT Knoxville, Oregon State Univ, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State Univ. Participation is voluntary; all responses will be confidential. Aggregated results will only be shared with parties in a manner that will not personally identify you or Virginia Tech. All participants must be at least 18 years old. The ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The survey will take about 15-20 minutes to complete. Take the survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252, or Nick Krabbenhoeft at nick@educopia.org or (917) 409-7907.

12. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MAP-COLORING STUDY – 3rd posting
Want to help developing more intuitive map coloring? Participants are sought for a study that evaluates color use in map reading, which will be used to choose the best locations farmers can plant their crops. In each trial you will be presented with a colored map, all of which show soil types but differ in how they show the amount of available water. Each map has two candidate areas of land; you will be asked to choose which area has more water and therefore is more suitable for planting. If you are 18 years or older and interested in participating, take the survey using your personal computer: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3PMWmeJXM08Vh3v. The session will last approximately 30 minutes. Upon submitting a complete survey, your email will be entered in a random drawing for five $20 VT gift cards. For more information, contact Ayat Mohammed at maaayat@vt.edu.

Posted on

May 4-10, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – many end when classes end!

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
  • Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. THESIS/DISSERTATION-WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, May 4, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with staying on track with your writing? Share some of your experiences with fellow grad students who are going through the same process and take advantage of a safe place to decompress from the stress of your thesis/dissertation. Join this dissertation support group and see how it may support your progress. Bring your own lunch!  Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu for more information.

3. PIZZA AND MOVIE: LOVE IS A VERB
Tuesday, May 5, 5:30pm, Brush Mountain A in Squires Student Center
The Intercultural Understanding Club (ICUC) invites you to watch this award-winning film by Terry Spencer Hesser. It is a 55-minutes documentary about Sufi-inspired social movement (Hizmet) that began in Turkey. This is a great oppportunity to clear your mind and socialize before the finals. Arrive early to enjoy free pizza, first-come first served. More info about the event: http://www.icuc.org.vt.edu/pizza-movie-love-is-a-verb/. Contact ICUC for any question: icuc.vt@gmail.com.

4. INCLUSIVE-VT STUDENT FORUM
Wednesday, May 6, 5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
President Timothy D. Sands would like to hear from you! What should the President’s Inclusion and Diversity Executive Council be considering for new InclusiveVT initiatives? What’s already working well? What will success look like? Learn more about this event at http://www.inclusive.vt.edu/. Please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8f9qR8NAxNETZ1X if you plan to attend, so organizers can plan appropriately. If you have questions, email to inclusivevt@vt.edu.

5. GLC CAFÉ: READING DAY SPECIAL – CUBICLE-FARM TIRAMISU!
Thursday, May 7, 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. To celebrate Reading Day, we are bringing the cubicle-farm tiramisu back! If it’s sunny, we might be on the side-patio (near Bookstore side entrance behind the shrubs). Bring your own mug if you can.

6. HOKIES FOR NEPAL EARTHQUAKE FUNDRAISING – 1st posting
The VT Nepalese Student Association invites you to join their fundraising efforts in response to the recent earthquake that killed more than 7000 people and injured over 13,000. Millions of affected people are in dire need of food, medical supplies and shelter. Learn more about the effort and/or donate at http://www.nepal.org.vt.edu/nepalearthquake2015/.

7. GRAD ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LEARNING EXPERIENCE DESIGN IN TLOS – 2nd posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) is seeking a Graduate Assistant to help design and develop media-rich, high quality courses that incorporate active learning through technology. The GA will serve as part of a team of instructional designers, instructional support specialists, graphic and media designers, etc. who work with faculty to design and develop content, learning activities and assessments for online, hybrid, flipped, traditional and multi-modal classrooms both on campus and for distance learning. Must have a strong background in instructional design, educational media or related field and have experience working with faculty to complete projects. Experience teaching in higher education is not required but is preferred. If interested, email Dr. Lujean Baab at laab@vt.edu to respond with an indication of why you would like to join the LED team, the skills and experience you could contribute, etc. and attach a current resume/CV.  

8. GRA OPENING FOR GIS WEB APPLICATION DEVELOPER FOR 2015-16 – 2nd posting
The Enterprise GIS and Blacksburg Electronic Village units of VT’s central IT seek a highly-motivated graduate student with programming, GIS and web design skills to develop GIS-related web applications as assigned in a technical team environment, using an evolving set of best-practice tools, libraries and techniques. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing web mapping applications that interface with IT’s GIS server infrastructure, performing mapping and analysis tasks and supporting high-visibility mapping initiatives. Required experience: Web application programming: HTML, CSS, JavaScript. Other relevant experience in descending order of preference:      Working in a distributed team environment; Tools and APIs related to the ESRI ArcGIS platform; REST/SOAP Services-Oriented Architecture; JavaScript libraries, especially Dojo; Bootstrap and mobile-first design principles; Revision control, especially git; ESRI GIS software, including ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Server and ArcGIS Online; Python; Open-source GIS server tools (e.g., GeoServer, PostGIS, Geoportal Server); Security, safety and/or facilities management application domains; SQL ( MySQL/ PostgreSQL /Oracle); PHP. Candidates with a subset of the preferred skill set that can demonstrate web application development proficiency and a willingness to learn the geospatial aspects of the work are encouraged to apply. This is a full-time, 12-m GRA (20 hr/wk) Aug 2015-Aug 2016. Renewal beyond that is contingent on funding availability, continued interest of the student, and the supervisors’ assessment of student’s performance. If interested, submit a current resume and cover letter explaining interest in and qualification for the position as soon as possible to egisjobs@bev.net. Position will remain open until filled.

9. SUMMER GA OPENING IN ADVANCED RESEARCH COMPUTING – 3rd posting
Advanced Research Computing ( www.arc.vt.edu ) has an open graduate research assistant position for user support / help desk in support of High Performance Computing resources. The position begins Summer 2015. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to participate in research projects undertaken within ARC. The GRA is responsible for holding weekly office hours for user support and questions regarding HPc resources, handling and resolving trouble tickets via the ARC website, and building and optimizing software modules on ARC’s clusters.  More information can be found at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA-ARC.pdf  . If interested, please send a resume to Brian Marshall at mimarsh2@vt.edu.

10. GA OPENING FOR THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: WEB CONTENT/DESIGN ASSISTANT – 3rd posting
Apex Systems Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is looking for a dynamic, self-motivated individual with experience and skills in web content management, writing and editing for the web, graphic design and site management for the 2015-2016 academic year. The web content/design assistant will provide support for maintaining the CIE’s digital presence. In addition to copywriting, editing, and proofreading site content, this person will also work closely with staff and communications team to maintain site standards, craft site promotions, email newsletters, and online outreach campaigns. Tasks require a strong attention to detail and ability to work under tight deadlines. Deadline is June 1, 2015. More details and contact info can be found at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA_Center_for_Innovation_Entrepreneurship.pdf

11. GA OPENING FOR THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: GRANT WRITER– 3rd posting
Apex Systems Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship has a GA opening for a grant writer for the 2015-2016 academic year.  Under general direction, the GA will facilitate research, development, review, and edit departmental and/or institutional grant proposals; conduct basic research for potential funding sources and maintain databases and support faculty and administration in developing proposals. Deadline is June 1, 2015. More details and contact info can be found at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA%20Description-%20GrantWriter.pdf.

12. GA OPENING FOR THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: INNOVATE LLC– 3rd posting
The Graduate Assistant for the Apex Systems Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship position maintains, monitors, and assists with programming for the Innovate Living Learning Community (LLC). The Innovate LLC has been established to provide distinctive settings where student academic success is supported through residential experiences and programs. Innovate brings academics into the residence halls through on-site classes, advising and referral services, mentors, tutors, and special opportunities to work with faculty. The Innovate living-learning community brings together a diverse group of committed and driven students into a high-energy learning environment.  Innovate will provide an opportunity for students to gain insights into the entrepreneurial process, interact with successful entrepreneurs, and learn from Virginia Tech faculty and community partners with expertise in areas related to developing an entrepreneurial mindset. The Living-Learning Communities range from first-year experiences and academic disciplines to a second, third and fourth year experience. The individual(s) in this position report directly to the Executive Director of the Apex Center while maintaining a strong working relationship with the Residence Life Coordinator of the residence hall in which the individual is assigned. Deadline is May 7, 2015. More details and contact information can be found at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA%20Description-%20Innovate%20LLC.pdf

13. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ETD-PLUS PROJECT – 2nd posting
VT grad students are invited to participate in the nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and University of North Texas, Purdue, Univ of North Carolina, Univ of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon Univ, UT Knoxville, Oregon State Univ, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State Univ. Participation is voluntary; all responses will be confidential. Aggregated results will only be shared with parties in a manner that will not personally identify you or Virginia Tech. All participants must be at least 18 years old. The ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The survey will take about 15-20 minutes to complete. Take the survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252, or Nick Krabbenhoeft at nick@educopia.org or (917) 409-7907.

14. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MAP-COLORING STUDY – 2nd posting
Want to help developing more intuitive map coloring? Participants are sought for a study that evaluates color use in map reading, which will be used to choose the best locations farmers can plant their crops. In each trial you will be presented with a colored map, all of which show soil types but differ in how they show the amount of available water. Each map has two candidate areas of land; you will be asked to choose which area has more water and therefore is more suitable for planting. If you are 18 years or older and interested in participating, take the survey using your personal computer: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3PMWmeJXM08Vh3v. The session will last approximately 30 minutes. Upon submitting a complete survey, your email will be entered in a random drawing for five $20 VT gift cards. For more information, contact Ayat Mohammed at maaayat@vt.edu.

15. U.S. & INTL STUDENT PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR OPEN-ACCESS SURVEY – 3rd posting
The open access movement is an international effort regarding the free access to academic publishing. As such, researchers are interested in attitudes and opinions of international audiences, including international students in the U.S.  Graduate students, both international and U.S. citizen, are invited to participate in this survey about the open access movement and share their attitudes and opinions about this important research topic. Access the survey at bit.ly/OA_COMM. The survey results will be used for a graduate student paper on open access, which will be available to participants at the end of the academic semester if they are interested in the results.

16. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR WINE CONSUMER PREFERENCE TEST – 3rd posting
Participants 21 and over are invited to participate in a consumer preference test of Cabernet franc and Petit verdot wines as part of a Ph.D. project.  The testing will be on Tuesday, May 5 (Cabernet franc) and Wednesday, May 6 (Petit Verdot), anytime between 9am and 5pm at the Human Agricultural Biosciences Building, room 205 HABB1.  Each test will take approximately 15-20 minutes and participants are asked to attend both days.  Please bring identification to verify age.  Participants must not have any known allergies to alcohol, sulfites, or any other compound in wine and it is required that you are a consumer of red wine at least once a week. Please contact Cain Hickey at can1@vt.edu to rsvp or if you have questions.

17. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR CAMPUS REPORTING SURVEY – 3rd posting
Jonathan Waldron, M.S., and Susan White, PhD, of the Department of Psychology and Amie Schry, Ph.D., of the Veterans Affairs Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center are recruiting participants for the “Campus Reporting Survey.” All Virginia Tech faculty and staff members, including administrative staff and graduate teaching assistants (GTAs), are invited to complete an on-line survey asking about thoughts on hypothetical situations related to reporting sexual harassment incidents to university administrators. Graduate students who are not currently teaching classes are not eligible for the study. The survey will be open until May 6th, the last day of classes. The survey is estimated to take 10-15 minutes to complete, and all data will be anonymous. This study has been approved by the VT IRB (Protocol #: 13-078). To complete the survey, please go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CampusReporting_Faculty. If you have any questions, please contact Jonathan Waldron at jwaldron22@vt.edu.

Posted on

April 27 – May 3, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

– Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
– Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
– Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
– Writing assistance: Thursdays 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. HOKIE HIGH-FIVE CELEBRATION FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS
Tuesday, Apr 28, 12:00-4:00pm, Smith Career Center (corner of Washington Street and West Campus Drive)
It’s a celebration for Hokies! As part of the Alumni Association’s 100 Days ‘til Graduation program, Career Services invites graduating students to celebrate graduation with food, fun, and prizes. Stop by Smith Career Center to talk with advisors, participate in fun activities, and earn tickets for a chance to win: FitBit, Virginia Tech Diploma frame, or a set of luggage. Already accepted an offer? Actively job searching? Need help getting started with your future plans? Visit this celebration to learn about resume and cover letter prep, skills for meeting employers, job search options, or tips for transitioning to the workforce.  For more information, see http://www.career.vt.edu/Events/April2015-HokieHighFive.pdf. 

3. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Apr 28, 7:00pm, GLC Meeting Room D
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the last Tuesday of every month. Please join the group at the Graduate Life Center in Meeting Room D 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 http://www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc, or email Andrew Smith at ajsmith1@vt.edu.

4. SACNAS INTEREST MEETING
Wednesday, Apr 29, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room F
You are invited to the interest meeting for The Society for the Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (www.sacnas.org) student chapter. The national conference is in DC this year and it would be great if VT students would present and represent Virginia Tech. Please contact Dannette Beane at Dannette@vt.edu with questions. Snacks provided at the meeting.

5. DISCOVER ISLAM
Wednesday, Apr 29, 12:00-2:00pm, ‘Info Booth A’ in front of ABP in 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 Haitham Elmarakeby, marakeby@vt.edu.

6. ENGINEERING EDUCATION OPEN HOUSE
Wednesday, Apr 29, 5:00-7:00pm, Goodwin 341.
Interested in learning more about the opportunities in the Engineering Education Ph.D. program? Attend this open house to network with faculty and students and tour the facility. A complimentary taco and burrito bar will be provided. For more information email Linda Hazelwood at lindawh@vt.edu.

7. LIBRARY SUMMON FOCUS GROUPS – FOOD GIFTS AND PRIZES – SIGN-UP NOW!
Thursday, Apr 30, various times, Room 207A, Newman Library
Sign-up and participate in one of the Library’s Summon Focus Groups and enter a drawing to win one of six available prizes: Surface Pro 3, Kindle Fire HD, and four $25 Amazon gift cards.  Food and beverages provided.  A complimentary gift bag will be given to all attendees.  Space is limited to 10 participants per focus group so sign-up early here:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qdObfBCjRUVURSPGH9eDdtBVJgLREEvLOtpLCL6sLqE/viewform?c=0&w=1

8. VT BEST MINI-INTERNSHIP: SCIENTIFIC EDITING AND ACADEMIC PUBLISHING
Thursday, Apr 30, 1:00-4:00pm, Roanoke
Virginia Tech’s BEST program offers a variety of professional development opportunities for doctoral students and postdocs in the biomedical and health sciences throughout the year.  Register now for one or both of the upcoming “mini-internship” workshops, where PhD’s from a variety of professions give trainees a sense for a day on the job in their profession. Presenter: Dr. Meredith LeMasurier, Chief Editor, Nature Neuroscience.  Space is limited so apply now at http://info.vtc.vt.edu/best/scientific-editing-and-academic-publishing/.

9. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 30, 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. Bring your own mug if you can.

10. THE PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN THE 21ST CENTURY – FORUM FEATURING PRESIDENT SANDS
Friday, May 1,7:00-9:00pm, Quillen Auditorium in Goodwin Hall
The VT chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) sponsors this forum featuring Pres. Timothy Sands on "The Public University in the 21st Century." In addition, this campus-wide discussion of challenges and opportunities facing public universities will also include panelists Dr. W. Wat Hopkins (Professor of Communication, on academic freedom), Dr. Carol A. Mullen (Professor of Educational Leadership, on public university leadership), and Dr. Marc. S. Edwards (Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, on public scholarship). The panel will be moderated by Dr. Janell Watson, Professor of French and VT-AAUP executive board member. Q&A and discussion will follow the panelists’ 10-minute presentations. This message is posted on behalf of grad student April Stapp.

11. VT INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES ON-CAMPUS OFFICE HOURS – 3rd posting
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc. (VTIP) is hosting on-campus office hours to help anyone with innovative ideas get advice on how to develop and protect intellectual property, navigate the technology transfer process, refine your business strategy for rapid growth, tap into other entrepreneurial resources and build and finance a startup company. Office hours will begin April 15 and will follow this schedule: Wednesdays & Thursdays, 1:00 – 5:00 PM in Port: Digital Research Commons, Room 3320 Torgersen Hall and Fridays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM at VTIP’s CRC office, 2200 Kraft Drive, Suite 1050. Walk-ins are welcome, or schedule an appointment at http://vtip.appointy.com/ to guarantee your time slot.

12. GRAD ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LEARNING EXPERIENCE DESIGN IN TLOS – 1st posting
Learning Experience Design (LED), a unit of Technology-enhanced Learning and Online Strategies (TLOS) is seeking a Graduate Assistant to help design and develop media-rich, high quality courses that incorporate active learning through technology. The GA will serve as part of a team of instructional designers, instructional support specialists, graphic and media designers, etc. who work with faculty to design and develop content, learning activities and assessments for online, hybrid, flipped, traditional and multi-modal classrooms both on campus and for distance learning. Must have a strong background in instructional design, educational media or related field and have experience working with faculty to complete projects. Experience teaching in higher education is not required but is preferred. If interested, email Dr. Lujean Baab at laab@vt.edu to respond with an indication of why you would like to join the LED team, the skills and experience you could contribute, etc. and attach a current resume/CV.  

13. GA OPENING IN UNIVERSITY ORGANIZATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – 1st posting
Full assistantship (20 hrs/wk) for current master’s or doctoral student in I/O Psychology, Management, Organizational Development, or related field to support research and administrative needs underlying organizational assessment and consulting services for university clients.  The graduate assistant is responsible for supporting a variety of OD projects designed to address the organizational effectiveness of the Virginia Tech community. Responsibilities include providing support for survey research and research projects of UOPD faculty; assisting with the review, administration, and analysis of data for organizational and individual assessments (e.g., organizational climate, 360-degree feedback, personality traits, etc.). The GA will also perform other supporting research functions, as deemed necessary to support effective OD service delivery. Interested candidates should have strong analytical and problem solving skills, experience analyzing data with Qualtrics, SPSS, SAS, MS Excel and/or other statistical applications, excellent communication skills (verbal and written) and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively. Interested graduate students can send their information to UOPD (uopd@vt.edu) by May 1, 2015.

14. GRA OPENING FOR GIS WEB APPLICATION DEVELOPER FOR 2015-16 – 1st posting
The Enterprise GIS and Blacksburg Electronic Village units of VT’s central IT seek a highly-motivated graduate student with programming, GIS and web design skills to develop GIS-related web applications as assigned in a technical team environment, using an evolving set of best-practice tools, libraries and techniques. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing web mapping applications that interface with IT’s GIS server infrastructure, performing mapping and analysis tasks and supporting high-visibility mapping initiatives. Required experience: Web application programming: HTML, CSS, JavaScript. Other relevant experience in descending order of preference:      Working in a distributed team environment; Tools and APIs related to the ESRI ArcGIS platform; REST/SOAP Services-Oriented Architecture; JavaScript libraries, especially Dojo; Bootstrap and mobile-first design principles; Revision control, especially git; ESRI GIS software, including ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Server and ArcGIS Online; Python; Open-source GIS server tools (e.g., GeoServer, PostGIS, Geoportal Server); Security, safety and/or facilities management application domains; SQL ( MySQL/ PostgreSQL /Oracle); PHP. Candidates with a subset of the preferred skill set that can demonstrate web application development proficiency and a willingness to learn the geospatial aspects of the work are encouraged to apply. This is a full-time, 12-m GRA (20 hr/wk) Aug 2015-Aug 2016. Renewal beyond that is contingent on funding availability, continued interest of the student, and the supervisors’ assessment of student’s performance. If interested, submit a current resume and cover letter explaining interest in and qualification for the position as soon as possible to egisjobs@bev.net. Position will remain open until filled.

15. SUMMER GA OPENING IN ADVANCED RESEARCH COMPUTING – 2nd posting
Advanced Research Computing ( www.arc.vt.edu ) has an open graduate research assistant position for user support / help desk in support of High Performance Computing resources. The position begins Summer 2015. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to participate in research projects undertaken within ARC. The GRA is responsible for holding weekly office hours for user support and questions regarding HPc resources, handling and resolving trouble tickets via the ARC website, and building and optimizing software modules on ARC’s clusters.  More information can be found at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA-ARC.pdf  . If interested, please send a resume to Brian Marshall at mimarsh2@vt.edu.

16. GA OPENING FOR THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: WEB CONTENT/DESIGN ASSISTANT – 2nd posting
Apex Systems Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is looking for a dynamic, self-motivated individual with experience and skills in web content management, writing and editing for the web, graphic design and site management for the 2015-2016 academic year. The web content/design assistant will provide support for maintaining the CIE’s digital presence. In addition to copywriting, editing, and proofreading site content, this person will also work closely with staff and communications team to maintain site standards, craft site promotions, email newsletters, and online outreach campaigns. Tasks require a strong attention to detail and ability to work under tight deadlines. Deadline is June 1, 2015. More details and contact info can be found at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA_Center_for_Innovation_Entrepreneurship.pdf

17. GA OPENING FOR THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: GRANT WRITER– 2nd posting
Apex Systems Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship has a GA opening for a grant writer for the 2015-2016 academic year.  Under general direction, the GA will facilitate research, development, review, and edit departmental and/or institutional grant proposals; conduct basic research for potential funding sources and maintain databases and support faculty and administration in developing proposals. Deadline is June 1, 2015. More details and contact info can be found at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA%20Description-%20GrantWriter.pdf.

18. GA OPENING FOR THE CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP: INNOVATE LLC– 2nd posting
The Graduate Assistant for the Apex Systems Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship position maintains, monitors, and assists with programming for the Innovate Living Learning Community (LLC). The Innovate LLC has been established to provide distinctive settings where student academic success is supported through residential experiences and programs. Innovate brings academics into the residence halls through on-site classes, advising and referral services, mentors, tutors, and special opportunities to work with faculty. The Innovate living-learning community brings together a diverse group of committed and driven students into a high-energy learning environment.  Innovate will provide an opportunity for students to gain insights into the entrepreneurial process, interact with successful entrepreneurs, and learn from Virginia Tech faculty and community partners with expertise in areas related to developing an entrepreneurial mindset. The Living-Learning Communities range from first-year experiences and academic disciplines to a second, third and fourth year experience. The individual(s) in this position report directly to the Executive Director of the Apex Center while maintaining a strong working relationship with the Residence Life Coordinator of the residence hall in which the individual is assigned. Deadline is May 7, 2015. More details and contact information can be found at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/sites/default/files/u12/GA%20Description-%20Innovate%20LLC.pdf

19. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ETD-PLUS PROJECT – 1st posting
VT grad students are invited to participate in the nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and University of North Texas, Purdue, Univ of North Carolina, Univ of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon Univ, UT Knoxville, Oregon State Univ, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State Univ. Participation is voluntary; all responses will be confidential. Aggregated results will only be shared with parties in a manner that will not personally identify you or Virginia Tech. All participants must be at least 18 years old. The ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The survey will take about 15-20 minutes to complete. Take the survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252, or Nick Krabbenhoeft at nick@educopia.org or (917) 409-7907.

20. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MAP-COLORING STUDY – 1st posting
Want to help developing more intuitive map coloring? Participants are sought for a study that evaluates color use in map reading, which will be used to choose the best locations farmers can plant their crops. In each trial you will be presented with a colored map, all of which show soil types but differ in how they show the amount of available water. Each map has two candidate areas of land; you will be asked to choose which area has more water and therefore is more suitable for planting. If you are 18 years or older and interested in participating, take the survey using your personal computer: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3PMWmeJXM08Vh3v. The session will last approximately 30 minutes. Upon submitting a complete survey, your email will be entered in a random drawing for five $20 VT gift cards. For more information, contact Ayat Mohammed at maaayat@vt.edu.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR WINE CONSUMER PREFERENCE TEST – 2nd posting
Participants 21 and over are invited to participate in a consumer preference test of Cabernet franc and Petit verdot wines as part of a Ph.D. project.  The testing will be on Tuesday, May 5 (Cabernet franc) and Wednesday, May 6 (Petit Verdot), anytime between 9am and 5pm at the Human Agricultural Biosciences Building, room 205 HABB1.  Each test will take approximately 15-20 minutes and participants are asked to attend both days.  Please bring identification to verify age.  Participants must not have any known allergies to alcohol, sulfites, or any other compound in wine and it is required that you are a consumer of red wine at least once a week. Please contact Cain Hickey at can1@vt.edu to rsvp or if you have questions.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INFO SCRAPS DIARY STUDY – 3rd posting
“Information scraps” are the small pieces of information you take down to help you complete a task or remember something. This is a 2-week long study during which we will document some of your information scrap activity. Here’s how it works: 1. Schedule a 20 to 40-minute interview on-campus with one of our researchers this week at https://doodle.com/heu2r9smnq5h56cq 2. Come to the interview, and bring your smartphone. We’ll ask you questions about the information scraps on your smartphone as well as your information scrap habits.3. Fill out an online questionnaire every couple days. About once every 2 days, we’ll send you a link to a short online questionnaire. Fill it out (about 5 minutes) and submit it. That’s it! Contact researchers Will Ellis at wiellis@vt.edu  or Dr. Manuel A. Pérez-Quiñones at perez@cs.vt.edu with questions.

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR CAMPUS REPORTING SURVEY – 2nd posting
Jonathan Waldron, M.S., and Susan White, PhD, of the Department of Psychology and Amie Schry, Ph.D., of the Veterans Affairs Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center are recruiting participants for the “Campus Reporting Survey.” All Virginia Tech faculty and staff members, including administrative staff and graduate teaching assistants (GTAs), are invited to complete an on-line survey asking about thoughts on hypothetical situations related to reporting sexual harassment incidents to university administrators. Graduate students who are not currently teaching classes are not eligible for the study. The survey will be open until May 6th, the last day of classes. The survey is estimated to take 10-15 minutes to complete, and all data will be anonymous. This study has been approved by the VT IRB (Protocol #: 13-078). To complete the survey, please go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CampusReporting_Faculty. If you have any questions, please contact Jonathan Waldron at jwaldron22@vt.edu.

24. GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE SURVEY ON OPEN ACCESS – 3rd posting
How do you feel about Open Access? Graduate students from all disciplines are sought to complete an anonymous, 10 min. online survey about their awareness and attitudes toward Open Access Journals. Participants must be at least 18 years old. Results from the survey will be used by Communication grad students for a research project. Please complete the survey through the following link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_agfCpicR2mrUKuF. For more information, contact Kayla Hastrup, khastrup@vt.edu, or Maureen Lawrence-Kuether, mlawre04@vt.edu.

 

25. UPCOMING EVENTS:

PIZZA AND MOVIE: LOVE IS A VERB
Tuesday, May 5, 5:30pm, Brush Mountain A in Squires Student Center
The Intercultural Understanding Club (ICUC) invites you to watch this award-winning film by Terry Spencer Hesser. It is a 55-minutes documentary about Sufi-inspired social movement (Hizmet) that began in Turkey. This is a great oppportunity to clear your mind and socialize before the finals. Arrive early to enjoy free pizza, first-come first served. More info about the event: http://www.icuc.org.vt.edu/pizza-movie-love-is-a-verb/. Contact ICUC for any question: icuc.vt@gmail.com.

INCLUSIVE-VT STUDENT FORUM
Wednesday, May 6, 5:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
President Timothy D. Sands would like to hear from you! What should the President’s Inclusion and Diversity Executive Council be considering for new InclusiveVT initiatives? What’s already working well? What will success look like? Learn more about this event at http://www.inclusive.vt.edu/. Please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8f9qR8NAxNETZ1X if you plan to attend, so organizers can plan appropriately. If you have questions, email to inclusivevt@vt.edu.

HISPANIC-LATINO ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – register now!
Thursday, May 14, 4:30pm, Recital Salon in Squires
The 11th annual VT Hispanic-Latino Achievement Ceremony for students graduating in Spring 2015 will be held on Thursday, May 14 at 4:30pm in the Recital Salon of Squires Student Center, immediately followed by a dinner reception in the Old Dominion Ballroom. If you are a Hispanic/Latino 2015 graduate and would like to participate, please sign up by April 24 at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427209132170. Contact Veronica Montes at vmontes@vt.edu with questions.

Posted on

April 13-19, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
  • Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS  – Solutions for Broken Linear Models
Tuesday, Apr 14, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Room G
Researchers from many fields can benefit from applied knowledge of general linear models. This class of models includes the t-test (paired and two sample), regression, ANOVA, and ANCOVA. Like all statistical methods, certain assumptions must hold in order for these models to be successfully implemented. What happens when one or more of these assumptions are violated by the data? In this short course, we discuss the primary assumptions required for general linear models and present methods for assessing the validity of each one. We will discuss methods that address violations in these assumptions (e.g. Box-Cox transformations, weighted least squares). Alternative modeling strategies, such as semiparametric and nonparametric methods, may eliminate the need for some assumptions and will be briefly introduced.  Prerequisite knowledge for this course is a familiarity with general linear models, including ANOVA and ANCOVA. A variety of datasets will be used to illustrate the testing of assumptions as well as alternative procedures. The data will be analyzed using R. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to REGISTER and to learn more. 

3. PARENT GROUP MONTHLY MEETING
Wednesday, Apr 15, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
The Parent Support Group is an opportunity for graduate students and their partners who have or are expecting children, designed to provide a place to connect and build community. The group will be meeting Wednesday, April 15 in the GLC. Lunch will be served and partners and children are welcome! Sign-up at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-parent

4. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 16, 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. Bring your own mug if you can.

5. SPRING 30-AND-OVER SOCIAL
Thursday, Apr 16, 6:00-8:00pm, University Club
The Graduate School will host a spring social for the 30-and-over group. Food and adult beverages will be available. Please register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426175364088 if you plan to attend. Childcare is also available for this event; contact Jessie Meltsner at the Women’s Center, jmelts@vt.edu  or 231-7806 if you want to confirm childcare.

6. WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDEIS STUDENT CONFERENCE
Friday, Apr 17, 9:00am-5:00pm, Kelly Hall (ICTAS) Room 310
Come and witness some exciting and interesting feminist scholarship, poster presentations, and performances! A continental breakfast and light lunch will be provided! For more information, contact Jennifer Turner at jennlt8@vt.edu or visit our Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/800450123367848/

7. TACOS AND TIE DYE
Friday, Apr 17, 12:00-2:00pm, Graduate School Lawn
Join the GLC Fellows for tacos from Moe’s and tie-dye a shirt. Tacos and tie-dye materials will be provided but please bring your own shirt. If interested, please register at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427910986241.

8. GRADUATION CAP AND GOWN RENTAL PROGRAM
The Graduate Student Assembly Graduation Gown Rental program will loan a limited number of graduation gowns and caps to graduate students participating in Spring 2015 graduation ceremonies. This rental program is free and only provides gown and (one size fits all) cap. The hood and tassel are not provided by GSA and should be purchased by the student. As this is rental program, students will be held fully responsible for returning the gown and cap in fair condition to the Graduate Student Assembly. Interested students who fill out the following survey completely will be entered in a lottery. https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1428079193290 This survey will be open until Monday, April 20 at 5:00 p.m. Please review complete guidelines and important dates and deadlines on the GSA website http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/gsa-graduation-gown-rental-program/> . Contact Richard Rodrigues richrr@vt.edu with questions.

9. VT INTELLECTUAL PROPERTIES ON-CAMPUS OFFICE HOURS
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc. (VTIP) is hosting on-campus office hours to help anyone with innovative ideas get advice on how to develop and protect intellectual property, navigate the technology transfer process, refine your business strategy for rapid growth, tap into other entrepreneurial resources and build and finance a startup company. Office hours will begin on Wednesday, April 15 and will follow this schedule: Wednesdays & Thursdays, 1:00 – 5:00 PM in Port: Digital Research Commons, Room 3320 Torgersen Hall and Fridays 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM at VTIP’s CRC office, 2200 Kraft Drive, Suite 1050. Walk-ins are welcome, or schedule an appointment at http://vtip.appointy.com/ to guarantee your time slot.

 

10. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR LATINO LECTURE SYMPOSIUM – 2nd posting

This project aims to provide a space for mentoring relationships to flourish organically. Students who have turned in a paper, done research on, or can discuss topics specifically related to the Latino community can be nominated to present at this symposium. Nomination process: please submit students’ first name, last name, email address, major, and a title for the project, paper, or research to Miguel Martinez at miguelam@vt.edu by Apr 20, 2015.

11. GA OPENING IN WOMEN AND GENDER IN INT’L DEVELOPMENT IN OIRED – 1st posting
OIRED Is looking for a Graduate Assistant to help ensure a gender-sensitive approach to all OIRED (www.oired.vt.edu) projects and raise awareness about gender and international development issues at Virginia Tech. For a full position description and application instructions, see http://www.oired.vt.edu/job-listings/GraduateAsst-WGD-JobListing2015.html or email Maria Elisa Christie at mechristie@vt.edu. The application deadline is April 24.

12. GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE SURVEY ON OPEN ACCESS – 1st posting
Calling all grad students! How do you feel about Open Access? Graduate students from all disciplines are sought to complete an anonymous, 10 min. online survey about their awareness and attitudes toward Open Access Journals. Participants must be at least 18 years old. Results from the survey will be used by Communication grad students for a research project. Please complete the survey through the following link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_agfCpicR2mrUKuF. For more information, contact Kayla Hastrup, khastrup@vt.edu, or Maureen Lawrence-Kuether, mlawre04@vt.edu.

13. GA OPENING IN THE OFFICE OF INTL RESEARCH, EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT – 2nd posting
OIRED is looking for a Graduate Assistant to begin in Aug 2015 as a Peace Corps Recruiter. The GA must be a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV). The GA will serve as the main university and Southwest Virginia point of contact for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps.  For full position description, or to apply, email Emily Van Houweling at evh@vt.edu by May 1.

14. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE EDUCATIONAL CONTENT STUDY – 2nd posting
Doctoral student seeks student participants for a voluntary and confidential research study about online educational content. Students who participate in the study will receive pizza and beverages at the conclusion of the study. If you are interested in participating in a 45-60-minute lab study about online educational content, follow the link below to provide your contact information and select your preferred study session(s). During the study, participants will be asked to review two sets of online course materials for the same content and answer a short survey providing response to and preferences for each. Finally, students will be asked to participate in a group discussion to provide additional feedback to the researchers while enjoying pizza, snacks, and soft drinks. All components of the lab study will be audio recorded for later review. https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427496470025. The time commitment for this research is low, but it could provide useful insight into the way instructors should compose instructional materials for online and hybrid courses.

15. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MILK-TASTING STUDY – 3rd posting
Can you identify different samples? Come every day if you can, even if you have already participated. Must be 18 or older and not allergic to milk. Need 128 panelists for each day. Take a friend with you and make it date!

  • Day 1:  Wednesday 4/8, 1 pm- 6:00 pm
  • Day 2:  Thursday 4/9, 1 pm- 6:00 pm
  • Day 3:  Friday 4/10, 10 am- 5:00 pm
  • Day 4:  Monday 4/13, 10 am- 5:00 pm
  • Day 5:  Wednesday 4/15, 10 am- 5:00 pm
  • Day 6:  Thursday 4/16 10 am- 5:00 pm

HABB1 Building, Rm 205 (corner of Duck Pond Dr. and Washington, St. MAP: https://goo.gl/maps/sIsyn). Each tasting lasts about 15 minutes. With questions contact Kemia Amin at kamin2@vt.edu.

16. FIRST-GENERATION GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR SURVEY – 3rd posting
If you identify as first generation and Appalachian, you are invited to complete a survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9ERHMcTK5R4gISN. "First generation" means you are the first person in your family to attend college. "Appalachian" means that you or your parents graduated from a high school in the region as defined by the Appalachian Regional Commission. If you are from outside of the ARCs definition but identify as an Appalachian person, you may complete the survey. This survey is confidential and voluntary and should take about ten minutes. Results may be published. For more information contact diversity scholar Jordan Laney at jlaney@vt.edu.

17. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 3rd posting
Participants are sought for a survey on user behavior related to mirror usage and seeking feedback on appearance from others. The results of the survey will be used to guide a project for Usability Engineering. http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2073715/SmartMirrors. Please contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu with questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

2016-2017 FULBRIGHT INFORMATION SESSIONS
Monday, Apr 20, 7:00-8:00pm; Tuesday, Apr 21, 11:00am-12:00pm, and Wednesday, Apr 22, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room B
The 2016-2017 Fulbright U.S. Student competition is now open. Scholarships for research/study grants include round-trip transportation, tuition, and living expenses; other types of grants are also available. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors and master’s and doctoral candidates. Virginia Tech has established a priority candidate application process with a deadline of July 1.  For more information contact Betty Watts (bettyw@vt.edu; 231-7220).

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Remaining spring 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Apr 21: Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) & Categorical Data Analysis (CDA);

Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

VT BEST MINI-INTERNSHIP: COMMUNICATING SCIENCE – NEWSPAPERS, NEWS BLOGS, AND PUBLIC RADIO
Thursday, Apr 23, 1:00-4:00pm, Roanoke
Virginia Tech’s BEST program offers a variety of professional development opportunities for doctoral students and postdocs in the biomedical and health sciences throughout the year.  Register now for one or both of the upcoming “mini-internship” workshops, where PhD’s from a variety of professions give trainees a sense for a day on the job in their profession. Presenter: Dr. Michaeleen Doucleff, Editor and Scientific Reporter, National Public Radio (NPR). Space is limited so apply now at http://info.vtc.vt.edu/best/communicating-science-newspapers-news-blogs-and-public-radio/.

GLC MOVIE NIGHT: THE LEGO MOVIE
Thursday, Apr 23, 7pm, GLC Room F
Come join fellow graduate students for a screening of The LEGO Movie.  Although an animated film, it is wonderful for adults.  Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.  This event is sponsored by the GLC Fellows.  For more information, contact lkkoehle@vt.edu;

VT BEST MINI-INTERNSHIP: SCIENTIFIC EDITING AND ACADEMIC PUBLISHING
Thursday, Apr 30, 1:00-4:00pm, Roanoke
Virginia Tech’s BEST program offers a variety of professional development opportunities for doctoral students and postdocs in the biomedical and health sciences throughout the year.  Register now for one or both of the upcoming “mini-internship” workshops, where PhD’s from a variety of professions give trainees a sense for a day on the job in their profession. Presenter: Dr. Meredith LeMasurier, Chief Editor, Nature Neuroscience.  Space is limited so apply now at http://info.vtc.vt.edu/best/scientific-editing-and-academic-publishing/.

HISPANIC-LATINO ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – register now!
Thursday, May 14, 4:30pm, Recital Salon in Squires
The 11th annual VT Hispanic-Latino Achievement Ceremony for students graduating in Spring 2015 will be held on Thursday, May 14 at 4:30pm in the Recital Salon of Squires Student Center, immediately followed by a dinner reception in the Old Dominion Ballroom. If you are a Hispanic/Latino 2015 graduate and would like to participate, please sign up by April 24 at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427209132170. Contact Veronica Montes at vmontes@vt.edu with questions.

 

 

 

Posted on

April 6-12, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
  • Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. ISLAMIC WORLD FESTIVAL AT VT
Monday-Saturday, Apr 6-11, various times and locations
The VT Center for the Arts presents hip-hop musician Omar Offendum, comedians Maz Jobrani and Maysoon Zayid, and world-class musicians Kayhan Kalhor and Brooklyn Rider, among many other diverse events. Expect food, fashion, photography, fun, and unforgettable conversations in this celebration of arts and culture! The Islamic Worlds Festival aims to promote understanding about Muslim societies in their diverse political, social, religious, historical, and cultural contexts; cultivate civility; and celebrate the cultural traditions practiced in Muslim societies. To program this multi-day series of performances, lectures, and events, numerous cultural student groups shared their ideas and a committed team of VT students, faculty, and community members met for over a year to design this week of bridge building experiences. For a full list of events visit: https://www.artscenter.vt.edu/Online/islamicworlds.

3. JEWISH MONTH CONNECT LUNCHEON
Tuesday, Apr 7, 11:00-1:00pm, GLC Room F
All students, faculty, and staff are invited to this luncheon hosted by the Graduate School and the Jewish Student Union. During the luncheon there will be a short presentation about the Jewish Cultural Month followed by an interactive conversation with members of the Jewish Student Union. Lunch is provided! Please register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8YVGGBG. Contact Nayesdi Badillo-Delgado with questions at Nayesdi@vt.edu.

4. THESIS/DISSERTATION-WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, Apr 7, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with staying on track with your writing? Share some of your experiences with fellow grad students who are going through the same process and take advantage of a safe place to decompress from the stress of your thesis/dissertation. Join this dissertation support group and see how it may support your progress. Bring your own lunch!  Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu for more information.

5. SHORT STATS COURSE FOR GRADS: T-TESTS AND ANOVA
Tuesday, Apr 7, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Room G
When one is interested in the difference between means of strictly two groups, the most common statistical procedure is known as the t-test. When there are two or more groups, the typical approach is to employ the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Taught by Kris Patton, this course will review the concepts behind two-sample and paired t tests and one and two-way ANOVA models.  Course attendees will learn the basic motivation and assumptions of each method.  Hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, and measures of effect size will also be described for each approach. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to REGISTER and to learn more. Follow LISA on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) to be the first to know about LISA events! For more information, visit http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

6. RACISM: THE POWER OF ILLUSION
Tuesday, Apr 7, 6:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
In collaboration with SGA, the VT NAACP invites you to its inaugural event, Racism: The Power of Illusion. This event will feature Virginia Tech’s most dynamic experts on racism and white privilege, while providing a safe space for learning and community building. The event will begin with engaging participants in an interactive dialog, then segue into a collaborative keynote address by Drs. Graves and Matheis. The keynote will be followed by breakout sessions facilitated by student leaders from across campus. Participants should leave the room better informed and energized to do social justice work. Members from affinity groups will have the opportunity to be empowered and become allies in the struggle for social justice. This message is posted on behalf of grad student Devon Lee.

7. VBI RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Thursday, Apr 9
Save the date!  Graduate students are invited to attend the VBI Research Symposium 2015. Registration required at https://app.smarterselect.com/programs/22207-Virginia-Bioinformatics-Institute-At-Virginia-Tech. For more information, visit http://www.vbi.vt.edu/research-symposium/2015.

8. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 9, 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. Bring your own mug if you can.

9. BREAKING STEREOTYPES: DIVERSITY COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE
Thursday, Apr 9, 5:00-6:30pm, 3rd Floor of Bishop-Favrao Hall
The CAUS Diversity Committee invites you to attend the 2015 Diversity Competition and Showcase, which received nearly 40 entries from students (grad and ugrad), faculty and staff. All entries will be on display, and winners will be announced at this event. Please register by emailing to licash@vt.edu.

10. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INTERNATIONAL STREET FAIR – 2nd posting
The Council of International Student Organizations is looking for performers for this year’s international street fair. If you you would like to perform, please complete the form the online form by Apr 10, 5:00pm at: http://goo.gl/pI3Pe9. For more information contact us at international@vt.edu.

11. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR LATINO LECTURE SYMPOSIUM – 1st posting
This project aims to provide a space for mentoring relationships to flourish organically. Students who have turned in a paper, done research on, or can discuss topics specifically related to the Latino community can be nominated to present at this symposium. Nomination process: please submit students’ first name, last name, email address, major, and a title for the project, paper, or research to Miguel Martinez at miguelam@vt.edu by Apr 20, 2015.

12. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 3rd posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda national graduate honor society at VT is calling for applications for Spring 2015. Faculty, staff and colleagues are encouraged to nominate graduate students who have shown dedication to serving their graduate community. The requirements are: (1) completion of at least 12 grad level credits (2) good academic standing in the department (i.e. GPA (3.3 and above), or a letter by a committee member, or research publication record. Applications are due by April 27th and please visit the AEL website for more information or contact us at mka3@vt.edu.

13. GA OPENING IN THE OFFICE OF INTL RESEARCH, EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT – 1st posting
OIRED is looking for a Graduate Assistant to begin in Aug 2015 as a Peace Corps Recruiter. The GA must be a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV). The GA will serve as the main university and Southwest Virginia point of contact for students and others interested in joining the Peace Corps.  For full position description, or to apply, email Emily Van Houweling at evh@vt.edu by May 1.

14. GRAD ASSISTANT AND REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 3rd posting
Applications are now being accepted for Graduate Assistant and Reference Library Assistance positions for the 2015-16 academic year. Apply by 5:00pm Friday, Apr 24. Learn about the positions at http://www.lib.vt.edu/libnews/2015/2015-04-24.html.

15. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE EDUCATIONAL CONTENT STUDY – 1st posting
Doctoral student seeks student participants for a voluntary and confidential research study about online educational content. Students who participate in the study will receive pizza and beverages at the conclusion of the study. If you are are interested in participating in a 45-60-minute lab study about online educational content, follow the link below to provide your contact information and select your preferred study session(s). During the study, participants will be asked to review two sets of online course materials for the same content and answer a short survey providing response to and preferences for each. Finally, students will be asked to participate in a group discussion to provide additional feedback to the researchers while enjoying pizza, snacks, and soft drinks. All components of the lab study will be audio recorded for later review. https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427496470025. The time commitment for this research is low, but it could provide useful insight into the way instructors should compose instructional materials for online and hybrid courses.

16. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MILK-TASTING STUDY – 2nd posting
Can you identify different samples? Come every day if you can, even if you have already participated. Must be 18 or older and not allergic to milk. Need 128 panelists for each day. Take a friend with you and make it date!

  • Day 1:  Wednesday 4/8, 1 pm- 6:00 pm
  • Day 2:  Thursday 4/9, 1 pm- 6:00 pm
  • Day 3:  Friday 4/10, 10 am- 5:00 pm
  • Day 4:  Monday 4/13, 10 am- 5:00 pm
  • Day 5:  Wednesday 4/15, 10 am- 5:00 pm
  • Day 6:  Thursday 4/16 10 am- 5:00 pm

HABB1 Building, Rm 205 (corner of Duck Pond Dr. and Washington, St. MAP: https://goo.gl/maps/sIsyn). Each tasting lasts about 15 minutes. With questions contact Kemia Amin at kamin2@vt.edu.

17. FIRST-GENERATION GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR SURVEY – 2nd posting
If you identify as first generation and Appalachian, you are invited to complete a survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9ERHMcTK5R4gISN. "First generation" means you are the first person in your family to attend college. "Appalachian" means that you or your parents graduated from a high school in the region as defined by the Appalachian Regional Commission. If you are from outside of the ARCs definition but identify as an Appalachian person, you may complete the survey. This survey is confidential and voluntary and should take about ten minutes. Results may be published. For more information contact diversity scholar Jordan Laney at jlaney@vt.edu.

18. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for a survey on user behavior related to mirror usage and seeking feedback on appearance from others. The results of the survey will be used to guide a project for Usability Engineering. http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2073715/SmartMirrors. Please contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu with questions.

19. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INFO SCRAPS MANAGEMENT RESEARCH – 3rd posting
Will Ellis, master’s student in Human Computer Interaction in computer science invites you to participate in an IRB-approved research study about “information scraps,” the small pieces of information you take down to help you complete a task or remember something. The study consists of a 10-15 minute online questionnaire regarding your information scrap tools and habits. If you are interested, complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cRY8c8P64K3YRsF. At the end of the questionnaire, you may be invited to participate in an optional follow-up study held at a later time. Feel free to forward this survey to your friends. Contact researchers Will Ellis at wiellis@vt.edu  or Dr. Manuel A. Pérez-Quiñones at perez@cs.vt.edu with questions.

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NATION-WIDE ETD STUDY – 3rd posting
Participate in this survey to help researchers better understand how graduate students create, manage, and share materials that extend beyond the texts of their theses or dissertations. Virginia Tech is part of a nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and U of North Texas, Purdue University, U of North Carolina, U of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon, UT Knoxville, Oregon State U, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State U. Your participation is voluntary; all responses are confidential. Although you may not benefit personally from participation in this study, the ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The questionnaire will take about 15-20 minutes to complete: Take the survey <https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6>. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252.

21. FOOD SAFETY SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 3rd posting
Participants will be asked a few questions regarding their perceptions about food safety, and their thoughts on a health inspection grading system. Must be 18 years or older, and have eaten in at least one restaurant in Montgomery County, VA in the past year. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes to complete. To take the survey, go to http://tinyurl.com/foodsafety15. For more information, contact Connor Bryant, master’s student in public health, cabryant@vt.edu.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MUSCLE FATIGUE STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved dissertation research study about the effects of different physical demands on muscle fatigue. Participants will perform a set of tasks, requiring forceful exertions of the hand, forearm, and/or upper arm.  Muscular strength will be measured by voluntary contraction and electrical stimulation of muscles.  Other measures will be related to performance and muscle fatigue by monitoring the muscle activity using EMG electrodes. Experiments will be conducted in the Safety Engineering Laboratory in the ISE department of VT. The complete experiment involves up to 7 experimental sessions, each requiring about 4 hours. You will be paid $10/hour for your participation and a $10 bonus after completing all sessions.  Your participation is voluntary and confidential. Must be 18-30; male or female; no current or recent history of a physical disorder affecting the hand/arm; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk). Contact Ehsan Rashedi at rashedi@vt.edu, (540) 629-0297) with any questions or if interested in participating.

23. UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Remaining spring 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Apr 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;
  • Tuesday, Apr 21: Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) & Categorical Data Analysis (CDA);

Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

SPRING 30-AND-OVER SOCIAL
Thursday, Apr 16, 6:00-8:00pm, University Club
The Graduate School will host a spring social for the 30-and-over group. Food and adult beverages will be available. Please register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426175364088 if you plan to attend. Childcare is also available for this event; contact Jessie Meltsner at the Women’s Center, jmelts@vt.edu  or 231-7806 if you want to confirm childcare.

TACOS AND TIE DYE
Friday, Apr 17, 12:00-2:00pm, Graduate School Lawn
Join the GLC Fellows for tacos from Moe’s and tie-dye a shirt. Tacos and tie-dye materials will be provided but please bring your own shirt. If interested, please register at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427910986241.

VT BEST MINI-INTERNSHIP: COMMUNICATING SCIENCE – NEWSPAPERS, NEWS BLOGS, AND PUBLIC RADIO
Thursday, Apr 23, 1:00-4:00pm, Roanoke
Virginia Tech’s BEST program offers a variety of professional development opportunities for doctoral students and postdocs in the biomedical and health sciences throughout the year.  Register now for one or both of the upcoming “mini-internship” workshops, where PhD’s from a variety of professions give trainees a sense for a day on the job in their profession. Presenter: Dr. Michaeleen Doucleff, Editor and Scientific Reporter, National Public Radio (NPR). Space is limited so apply now at http://info.vtc.vt.edu/best/communicating-science-newspapers-news-blogs-and-public-radio/.

VT BEST MINI-INTERNSHIP:SCIENTIFIC EDITING AND ACADEMIC PUBLISHING
Thursday, Apr 30, 1:00-4:00pm, Roanoke
Virginia Tech’s BEST program offers a variety of professional development opportunities for doctoral students and postdocs in the biomedical and health sciences throughout the year.  Register now for one or both of the upcoming “mini-internship” workshops, where PhD’s from a variety of professions give trainees a sense for a day on the job in their profession. Presenter: Dr. Meredith LeMasurier, Chief Editor, Nature Neuroscience.  Space is limited so apply now at http://info.vtc.vt.edu/best/scientific-editing-and-academic-publishing/.

HISPANIC-LATINO ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – register now!
Thursday, May 14, 4:30pm, Recital Salon in Squires
The 11th annual VT Hispanic-Latino Achievement Ceremony for students graduating in Spring 2015 will be held on Thursday, May 14 at 4:30pm in the Recital Salon of Squires Student Center, immediately followed by a dinner reception in the Old Dominion Ballroom. If you are a Hispanic/Latino 2015 graduate and would like to participate, please sign up by April 24 at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1427209132170. Contact Veronica Montes at vmontes@vt.edu with questions.

Posted on

March 30 – April 5, 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
  • Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: HOW TO MAINTAIN ACADEMIC TIES WHILE WORKING IN INDUSTRY (Part II)
Monday, Mar 30, 12:00-1:15pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Martha Gross (PhD/CE, MBA ’11) and learn about her journey through graduate school and into the first couple of years of her highly successful career as a senior consultant at Arup. Through anecdotes, case studies and a Q & A with the audience, explore how to maintain ties to academia while working in industry. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425912522456. Free lunch will be served.

3. INTERNATIONAL LGBTQ SAFE ZONE
Tuesday, Mar 31, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Room D
The international LGBTQ community is complex and nuanced.  Join MPS in this interactive session to learn more about the unique concerns and issues of queer international people, as well as considerations for queer Americans abroad.  Topics will include same-sexed marriage and adoption for international individuals, the coming out process across cultures, intercultural competence, and terminology. Facilitated by Hoa Nguyen.  Register at: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/mps/calendar/details/613525. 

4. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Mar 31, 7:00pm, GLC Meeting Room D
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the last Tuesday of every month. Please join the group at the Graduate Life Center in Meeting Room D 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 http://www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc, or email Kelsey Banes at ajsmith1@vt.edu.

5. VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Wednesday-Thursday, Apr 1-2
SEC & ACC Schools work together to bring you this great opportunity. Meet employers online! More details and registration available at https://www.careereco.com/events/secacc. This message is posted on behalf of VT Career Services.

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 2, 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. Bring your own mug if you can.

7. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM BANQUET AND KEYNOTE
Thursday, Apr 2, 5:30pm, The Inn Ballroom
The Keynote will feature Dr. Stuart Firestein (https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein <https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein> ). Light hors d’oeuvres will be served on a first come, first served basis. Register for this event at http://goo.gl/forms/gQGhUlQWrL. Questions? Email gsa.symposium.2015@gmail.com.

8. THE SOCIAL PORTFOLIOS OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES
Friday, Apr 3, 2:00pm, 100 Hancock Hall
Dr. Beasley from the University of Connecticut has conducted research on the question of diversity in STEM fields and will be presenting her findings and recommendations. Her talk will be followed by a panel discussion with science and engineering faculty members. This event is sponsored by the Colleges of Engineering and Science, but all students, faculty, and staff are welcome to attend. Posted on behalf of master’s student Kirsten Davis, daviska@vt.edu.

9. GSA SPRING WINE AND BEER SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 3, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring wine and beer social for an evening of fun and socializing with fellow students. An assortment of beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Must be 21+ with a valid state ID to consume alcohol. General admission is $10 and delegates will be admitted for $5. Non-drinking guests are welcome for $2. Contact Samantha Erwin at sherwin@vt.edu with questions or if you are interested in volunteering for the event.

10. THE BURIAL AT THEBES
Friday, Saturday and Monday, Apr 3, 4, and 6, 7:30pm in Theater 101
Theater arts graduate student Naphtali Fields invites you to see The Burial at Thebes, a play written by Seamus Heaney and directed by Naphtali. The play is an adaptation of the classic tragedy Antigone and the agency of an individual’s conviction vs. the authority of the state.  Tickets are free but donations of non-perishable food items for the Blacksburg Food Pantry are gratefully accepted. Please reserve your tickets at www.VTBurialatThebes.eventbrite.com.

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

12. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INTERNATIONAL STREET FAIR – 1st posting
The Council of International Student Organizations is looking for performers for this year’s international street fair. If you you would like to perform, please complete the form the online form by Apr 10, 5:00pm at: http://goo.gl/pI3Pe9. For more information contact us at international@vt.edu.

13. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 2nd posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda national graduate honor society at VT is calling for applications for Spring 2015. Faculty, staff and colleagues are encouraged to nominate graduate students who have shown dedication to serving their graduate community. The requirements are: (1) completion of at least 12 grad level credits (2) good academic standing in the department (i.e. GPA (3.3 and above), or a letter by a committee member, or research publication record. Applications are due by April 27th and please visit the AEL website for more information or contact us at mka3@vt.edu.

14. GSA RESEARCH FUNDING CYCLE OPEN – 3rd posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program! The GRDP provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Applications for the spring cycle are accepted Mar 23-Apr 3, with winners announced in early May. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Email hglane07@vt.edu with "GRDP" in the subject line with any questions.

15. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE INSTITUTE – 2nd posting
The Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute is looking for a Graduate Assistant in Student Services to begin in August 2015.  The GA will work with students in the Intensive English Program and assist with student programming and events.  For full position description, or to apply, email Sondra Schreiber at sondra3@vt.edu by Apr 3.

16. GRAD ASSISTANT AND REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 2nd posting
Applications are now being accepted for Graduate Assistant and Reference Library Assistance positions for the 2015-16 academic year. Apply by 5:00pm Friday, Apr 24. Learn about the positions at http://www.lib.vt.edu/libnews/2015/2015-04-24.html.

17. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MILK-TASTING STUDY – 1st posting
Can you identify different samples? If you participated in the milk study in the last round, you cannot come to that same day again. Last round’s schedule was Day 1 3/18; Day 2 3/19; Day 3 3/20; Day 4, 3/23; Day 5, 3/25; Day 6, 3/26. For example, if you came to Day 1 and 2 of panels you cannot come to our panels on April 1 and 2, but are free to come the remainder of the panel days.

  • Day 1:  Wednesday 4/1, 2 pm- 5:30 pm
  • Day 2:  Thursday 4/2, 2 pm- 5:30 pm
  • Day 3:  Friday 4/3, 10 am- 4:00pm
  • Day 4:  Monday 4/6, 10 am- 4:00 pm
  • Day 5:  Wednesday 4/8, 10 am- 4:00 pm
  • Day 6:  April 9, 10 am- 4:00 pm

HABB1 Building, Rm 205 (corner of Duck Pond Dr. and Washington, St. MAP: https://goo.gl/maps/sIsyn) Each tasting lasts about 15 minutes. With questions contact Kemia Amin at kamin2@vt.edu.

18. FIRST-GENERATION GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR SURVEY – 1st posting
If you identify as first generation and Appalachian, you are invited to complete a survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9ERHMcTK5R4gISN. "First generation" means you are the first person in your family to attend college. "Appalachian" means that you or your parents graduated from a high school in the region as defined by the Appalachian Regional Commission. If you are from outside of the ARCs definition but identify as an Appalachian person, you may complete the survey. This survey is confidential and voluntary and should take about ten minutes. Results may be published. For more information contact diversity scholar Jordan Laney at jlaney@vt.edu.

19. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
Participants are sought for a survey on user behavior related to mirror usage and seeking feedback on appearance from others. The results of the survey will be used to guide a project for Usability Engineering. http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2073715/SmartMirrors. Please contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu with questions.

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INFO SCRAPS MANAGEMENT RESEARCH – 2nd posting
Will Ellis, master’s student in Human Computer Interaction in computer science invites you to participate in an IRB-approved research study about “information scraps,” the small pieces of information you take down to help you complete a task or remember something. The study consists of a 10-15 minute online questionnaire regarding your information scrap tools and habits. If you are interested, complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cRY8c8P64K3YRsF. At the end of the questionnaire, you may be invited to participate in an optional follow-up study held at a later time. Feel free to forward this survey to your friends. Contact researchers Will Ellis at wiellis@vt.edu  or Dr. Manuel A. Pérez-Quiñones at perez@cs.vt.edu with questions.

21. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NATION-WIDE ETD STUDY – 2nd posting
Participate in this survey to help researchers better understand how graduate students create, manage, and share materials that extend beyond the texts of their theses or dissertations. Virginia Tech is part of a nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and U of North Texas, Purdue University, U of North Carolina, U of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon, UT Knoxville, Oregon State U, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State U. Your participation is voluntary; all responses are confidential. Although you may not benefit personally from participation in this study, the ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The questionnaire will take about 15-20 minutes to complete: Take the survey <https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6>. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252.

22. FOOD SAFETY SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
Participants will be asked a few questions regarding their perceptions about food safety, and their thoughts on a health inspection grading system. Must be 18 years or older, and have eaten in at least one restaurant in Montgomery County, VA in the past year. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes to complete. To take the survey, go to http://tinyurl.com/foodsafety15. For more information, contact Connor Bryant, master’s student in public health, cabryant@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MUSCLE FATIGUE STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved dissertation research study about the effects of different physical demands on muscle fatigue. Participants will perform a set of tasks, requiring forceful exertions of the hand, forearm, and/or upper arm.  Muscular strength will be measured by voluntary contraction and electrical stimulation of muscles.  Other measures will be related to performance and muscle fatigue by monitoring the muscle activity using EMG electrodes. Experiments will be conducted in the Safety Engineering Laboratory in the ISE department of VT. The complete experiment involves up to 7 experimental sessions, each requiring about 4 hours. You will be paid $10/hour for your participation and a $10 bonus after completing all sessions.  Your participation is voluntary and confidential. Must be 18-30; male or female; no current or recent history of a physical disorder affecting the hand/arm; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk). Contact Ehsan Rashedi at rashedi@vt.edu, (540) 629-0297) with any questions or if interested in participating.

24. UPCOMING EVENTS:

ISLAMIC WORLD FESTIVAL AT VT
Monday-Saturday, Apr 6-11, various times and locations
The VT Center for the Arts presents hip-hop musician Omar Offendum, comedians Maz Jobrani and Maysoon Zayid, and world-class musicians Kayhan Kalhor and Brooklyn Rider, among many other diverse events. Expect food, fashion, photography, fun, and unforgettable conversations in this celebration of arts and culture! The Islamic Worlds Festival aims to promote understanding about Muslim societies in their diverse political, social, religious, historical, and cultural contexts; cultivate civility; and celebrate the cultural traditions practiced in Muslim societies. To program this multi-day series of performances, lectures, and events, numerous cultural student groups shared their ideas and a committed team of VT students, faculty, and community members met for over a year to design this week of bridge building experiences. For a full list of events visit: https://www.artscenter.vt.edu/Online/islamicworlds.

JEWISH MONTH CONNECT LUNCHEON
Tuesday, Apr 7, 11:00-1:00pm, GLC Room F
All students, faculty, and staff are invited to this luncheon hosted by the Graduate School and the Jewish Student Union. During the luncheon there will be a short presentation about the Jewish Cultural Month followed by an interactive conversation with members of the Jewish Student Union. Lunch is provided! Please register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8YVGGBG. Contact Nayesdi Badillo-Delgado with questions at Nayesdi@vt.edu.

SHORT STAT COURSE FOR GRADS: T-TESTS & ANOVA
Tuesday, Apr 7, 4:00-6:00pm, 1080 Torgersen Hall
When one is interested in the difference between means of strictly two groups, the most common statistical procedure in this situation is known as the t-test. When there are two or more groups the typical approach is to employ the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Taught by Kris Patton, this course will review the concepts behind two-sample and paired t tests and one and two-way ANOVA models. Attendees will learn the basic motivation and assumptions of each method.  Hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, and measures of effect size will also be described for each approach. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more.

VBI RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Thursday, Apr 9
Save the date!  Graduate students are invited to attend the VBI Research Symposium 2015. Registration required at https://app.smarterselect.com/programs/22207-Virginia-Bioinformatics-Institute-At-Virginia-Tech. For more information, visit http://www.vbi.vt.edu/research-symposium/2015.

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Spring 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Apr 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
  • Tuesday, Apr 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;
  • Tuesday, Apr 21: Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) & Categorical Data Analysis (CDA);

Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

SPRING 30-AND-OVER SOCIAL
Thursday, Apr 16, 6:00-8:00pm, University Club
The Graduate School will host a spring social for the 30-and-over group. Food and adult beverages will be available. Please register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426175364088 if you plan to attend. Childcare is also available for this event; contact Jessie Meltsner at the Women’s Center, jmelts@vt.edu  or 231-7806 if you want to confirm childcare.

Posted on

March 23-27, 2015

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

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
  • Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

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

3. ISLAM AWARENESS WEEK
Monday, Mar 23 – Saturday, Mar 28
Islam Awareness Week is dedicated to educating and enlightening others about the fundamental beliefs and principles of Islam. This year, the MSA and ISA of Virginia Tech will be hosting a series of events throughout the week for both non-Muslims and Muslims of the Blacksburg community. Visit the event FB page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/events/627809830684888/.

4. GEW 2015 COFFEE KICKOFF AT NEWMAN – BREAKFAST TREATS!
Monday, Mar 23, 8:30-10:30am, Newman Library 1st floor Multipurpose Room
Bagels, doughnuts, fresh fruit, and a pretty extensive Yogurt Parfait Bar awaits! Jumpstart Grad Ed Week with coffee and a continental breakfast at Newman and meet, chat, and have coffee with experts at the library who can help you with lit reviews, managing data, assessing scholarly impact, using citation management software, and more. Please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425396128971 if you plan to attend.

5. CITIZEN SCHOLAR RECOGNITION CEREMONY
Monday, Mar 23, 4:00-5:30pm, GLC Room F
Graduate students who have put theory to practice for the advancement of a community will present their projects and receive the Citizen Scholar award. This event is open to all; no registration required. Light refreshments will be served.

6. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS: USING GGPLOT2 FOR ENHANCED GRAPHICS IN R
Monday, Mar 23, 5:30-7:30pm
Tuesday, Mar 24, 4:00-6:00pm
Taught by Paul Sabin, this short course will teach you how to make simple graphics in ggplot2 that are similar to plots made in R using the plot() function, and delve into more complex, layer-based graphics that ggplot2 is known for. The course is designed for researchers who are searching to improve their data visualization skills. Previous experience with R or another programming language is preferable, but not required. Learn how to make graphics such as barplots, histograms, scatterplots, box plots, density plots and also how to customize text and titles in the ggplot2 framework. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

7. GRAD STUDENT GAME NIGHT
Monday, Mar 23, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Student Lounge
Join the GLC Fellows and other graduate students for a fun evening of games and snacks. Some games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite game(s) to share.

8. THESIS/DISSERTATION-WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, Mar 24, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with staying on track with your writing? Share some of your experiences with fellow grad students who are going through the same process and take advantage of a safe place to decompress from the stress of your thesis/dissertation. Join this dissertation support group and see how it may support your progress. Bring your own lunch!  Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu for more information.

9. REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW
Tuesday, Mar 24, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to format your electronic thesis/dissertation, use EndNote for citations, and what happens to your ETD after you submit it to the Graduate School. Bring your laptop and a pdf copy of your ETD.

10. GRAD NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: WILD
Tuesday, Mar 24, showings at 7:00 and 9:30pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy a night at the movies, courtesy of the Graduate School and The Lyric. Pick up your free ticket at the GLC Welcome Desk or in 120 GLC, the Graduate School’s student service area.

11. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AND EXPO
Wednesday, Mar 25, 10:00am-4:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room and meeting rooms
Attend this annual highlight of Graduate Education Week to review the latest in graduate research at this interactive networking forum and poster session, and sit in on presentations as your time allows. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

12. LINKED-IN LAB
Wednesday, Mar 25, 2:00-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby
Have a free professional headshot photo taken for your LinkedIn profile and learn about how you can use LinkedIn for your job search. Career Services staff will assist you with a review of your profile. Wear appropriate shirt/top for your photo.

13. TWO ARTIST TALKS WITH ANGELO FILOMENO
Wednesday, Mar 25, 3:00pm, Theater 101 (200 College Ave)
Angelo Filomeno, an Italian-born, New York-based artist creates opulent “paintings” embroidered with luxurious threads on sumptuous, richly colored panels of shantung silk. Portraying a fantastical world of floral patterns, intertwined with exquisitely rendered fragments of plants, peacock feathers, insects, crystals, and skulls, Filomeno’s works are enchanting and seductive while juxtaposing exquisite beauty with undertones of the macabre. Attend this illustrated slide lecture followed by an informal gallery talk at 6:30pm at the Sherman Payne Quillen ‘71 Reception Gallery, Moss Arts Center. This message is posted on behalf of master’s student Sarah Halvorson-Fried.

14. LENTIL UNDERGROUND: BOOK READING AND DISCUSSION
Wednesday, Mar 25, 4:00-6:00pm, Litton-Reaves Hall Student Lounge
Attend this book reading and open discussion by Liz Carlisle, author of Lentil Underground: Renegade Farmers & the Future of Food in America. Speaking are Dr. Liz Carlisle, the author, & David Oien, third-generation Montana farmer & the book’s main character, who successfully led a “lentil uprising.” The discussion will range from biologically diverse cropping systems, to heritage seeds, to business in agrifood today. The book will be on sale at the event, and refreshments will be provided. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Lorien MacAuley.

15. LADIES NIGHT IN THE WEIGHT ROOM
Wednesday, Mar 25, 5:00-7:00pm, McComas
VT Rec Sports is hosting Ladies Night in the Weight Room – sign up for a one-on-one 30 minute free personal training session with one of the female VT Fitness trainers, or just go to learn more about lifting form and technique. There will be free tank tops and other prizes too! Grab your girlfriends and go to McComas on Wednesday night. Posted on behalf of Anna Taggart, Grad Assistant of Fitness.

16. LISA 2020: GRADS BUILDING RESEARCH CAPACITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 25, 6:00-7:30pm, GLC Room C
Learn how the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) can help you in your research and the efforts they are making to create a network of 20 statistical collaboration laboratories in developing countries by 2020. Free pizza! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425909047496.

17. VT INNOVATION SYSTEMS AND COMMERCIALIZING YOUR RESEARCH
Thursday, Mar 26, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room B
Can your research live beyond VT and maybe even help the world? Attend this session to discuss methods and barriers to commercializing research at Virginia Tech and learn how to determine if your research has commercial viability. This session will be led by three individuals locally involved in commercialization and entrepreneurship: Dr. Jack Lesko, Associate Dean of Research & Graduate Studies and Co-Founder, PowerHub Systems (www.pwrhub.com); Mr. Mike Abbott, Founder of Cambrian Development; and Ms. Sherry Walker, Director of NuSpark (NuSpark.org). Lunch will be served. Participants in this session will also be invited to tour NuSpark at a later date. Register at  https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425932415736. 

18. GLC CAFÉ: GEW EDITION WITH A SPECIAL GIFT RAFFLE
Thursday, Mar 26, 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. Bring your own mug if you can. Participate in a special gift raffle to win coffee/tea-related item(s).

19. INCLUSIVE VT GRADUATE SCHOOL FORUM, TAKE II
Friday, Mar 27, 10:00am-12:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Vice President and Dean Karen P. DePauw and her staff will give updates on the three Graduate School initiatives and ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts. Dean DePauw will discuss progress made regarding the concerns expressed in the first forum in January. Students will participate in an activity to help answer President Sand’s question, "what would InclusiveVT look like if we were successful beyond our wildest dreams?" Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425398020752.

20. BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: INDUSTRY OR ACADEME? (Part I)
Friday, Mar 27, 12:00-1:15pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Martha Gross (PhD/CE, MBA ’11) and learn about her journey through graduate school and into the first couple of years of her highly successful career as a senior consultant at Arup. Through anecdotes, case studies and a Q & A with the audience, explore the decision-making process of transitioning from academe to industry and how to put your advanced degrees to the best use.  Free lunch will be served. Part II of the presentation on Monday, Mar 30, will explore how to maintain ties to academia while working in industry. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425912522456.

21. MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TECHNIQUES: THE ART OF JUGGLING
Friday, Mar 27, 1:30-2:30pm, GLC Room D
Ever feel like you have too much to do with not enough time or energy? Is the juggling of priorities, deadlines, and work/life balance stressing you out? Learn about stress, how it impacts you daily, and how to better manage it. Get tips on how to live your life in a more mindful way and relax your body and mind in mere minutes! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426099748636.

22. BIG COOKOUT
Friday, Mar 27, 4:30-6:30pm, Graduate School Lawn and GLC Multipurpose Room
As is our tradition, Graduate Education Week will wrap with the annual favorite big cookout on the lawn. All graduate students and their families are invited to enjoy free food (vegetarian and meat options), music, and games. This year’s specials: caricature artist, balloon twisting, temporary tattoos, pet fortune telling (bring your pet or a photo of him/her), photo booth, and more. Bring a blanket!

23. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 1st posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda national graduate honor society at VT is calling for applications for Spring 2015. Faculty, staff and colleagues are encouraged to nominate graduate students who have shown dedication to serving their graduate community. The requirements are: (1) completion of at least 12 grad level credits (2) good academic standing in the department (i.e. GPA (3.3 and above), or a letter by a committee member, or research publication record. Applications are due by April 27th and please visit the AEL website for more information or contact us at mka3@vt.edu.

24. GSA RESEARCH FUNDING CYCLE OPEN – 2nd posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program! The GRDP provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Applications for the spring cycle are accepted Mar 23-Apr 3, with winners announced in early May. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Email hglane07@vt.edu with "GRDP" in the subject line with any questions.

25. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO DIVERSITY COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE: BREAKING STEREOTYPES – 2nd posting
The CAUS Diversity Committee invites all university students, faculty, and staff to express their perspective on "Breaking Stereotypes". Entries can comprise any of the following media: essay, music, painting, photography, poster, and video, etc and must be submitted by Mar 25, 5:00pm. Competition rules and an entry form are available at http://caus.vt.edu/diversity/diversity-index.html. Submission can be delivered to: Carolyn Harris, cjharris@vt.edu; CAUS Dean’s Office, 202 Cowgill. Awards: Faculty/staff – 1st place $750; Grad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250; Ugrad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250.

26. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING FOR 2015-16 IN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING – 1st posting
The COE Dean’s Suite IT office has a full GA position from Aug 2015. Required qualifications: Experience in Windows 7/8 operating system and tablet pcs; excellent oral and written communication skills; detail orientation; strong organizational skills, some experience using pen-based technology, experience using the VT wireless network;, proven problem solving skills, and a positive attitude regarding tablet pcs. Candidates should be able to initiate, develop and complete projects independently and be willing to investigate, learn, adopt and promote new technologies. Preferred: experience using DyKnow, Microsoft OneNote, Scholar, Lecture Tools, PDF Annotator, and WebEx.  Qualified applicants only should apply by emailing a cover letter and resume to ipitadmin@vt.edu. Send only one file including both your cover letter and resume in .pdf format. Name your file “lastname_firstname.pdf”, and use the subject line for your email “Instructional Technology Graduate Assistant in COE Dean’s Office”. Application review starts  Tuesday, Apr 1. 

27. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE INSTITUTE – 1st posting
The Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute is looking for a Graduate Assistant in Student Services to begin in August 2015.  The GA will work with students in the Intensive English Program and assist with student programming and events.  For full position description, or to apply, email Sondra Schreiber at sondra3@vt.edu by Apr 3.

28. GRAD ASSISTANT AND REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 1st posting
Applications are now being accepted for Graduate Assistant and Reference Library Assistance positions for the 2015-16 academic year. Apply by 5:00pm Friday, Apr 24. Learn about the positions at http://www.lib.vt.edu/libnews/2015/2015-04-24.html.

29. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INFO SCRAPS MANAGEMENT RESEARCH – 1st posting
Will Ellis, master’s student in Human Computer Interaction in computer science invites you to participate in an IRB-approved research study about “information scraps,” the small pieces of information you take down to help you complete a task or remember something. The study consists of a 10-15 minute online questionnaire regarding your information scrap tools and habits. If you are interested, complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cRY8c8P64K3YRsF. At the end of the questionnaire, you may be invited to participate in an optional follow-up study held at a later time. Feel free to forward this survey to your friends. Contact researchers Will Ellis at wiellis@vt.edu  or Dr. Manuel A. Pérez-Quiñones at perez@cs.vt.edu with questions.

30. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NATION-WIDE ETD STUDY – 1st posting
Participate in this survey to help researchers better understand how graduate students create, manage, and share materials that extend beyond the texts of their theses or dissertations. Virginia Tech is part of a nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and U of North Texas, Purdue University, U of North Carolina, U of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon, UT Knoxville, Oregon State U, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State U. Your participation is voluntary; all responses are confidential. Although you may not benefit personally from participation in this study, the ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The questionnaire will take about 15-20 minutes to complete: Take the survey <https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6>. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252.

31. FOOD SAFETY SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
Participants will be asked a few questions regarding their perceptions about food safety, and their thoughts on a health inspection grading system. Must be 18 years or older, and have eaten in at least one restaurant in Montgomery County, VA in the past year. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes to complete. To take the survey, go to http://tinyurl.com/foodsafety15. For more information, contact Connor Bryant, master’s student in public health, cabryant@vt.edu.

32. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MUSCLE FATIGUE STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved dissertation research study about the effects of different physical demands on muscle fatigue. Participants will perform a set of tasks, requiring forceful exertions of the hand, forearm, and/or upper arm.  Muscular strength will be measured by voluntary contraction and electrical stimulation of muscles.  Other measures will be related to performance and muscle fatigue by monitoring the muscle activity using EMG electrodes. Experiments will be conducted in the Safety Engineering Laboratory in the ISE department of VT. The complete experiment involves up to 7 experimental sessions, each requiring about 4 hours. You will be paid $10/hour for your participation and a $10 bonus after completing all sessions.  Your participation is voluntary and confidential. Must be 18-30; male or female; no current or recent history of a physical disorder affecting the hand/arm; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk). Contact Ehsan Rashedi at rashedi@vt.edu, (540) 629-0297) with any questions or if interested in participating.

Upcoming Events:

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Spring 2015 Schedule:

  • Tuesday, Apr 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
  • Tuesday, Apr 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;
  • Tuesday, Apr 21: Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) & Categorical Data Analysis (CDA);

Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Wednesday-Thursday, Apr 1-2
SEC & ACC Schools work together to bring you this great opportunity. Meet employers online! More details and registration available at https://www.careereco.com/events/secacc. This message is posted on behalf of VT Career Services.

GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM BANQUET AND KEYNOTE
Thursday, Apr 2, 5:30pm, The Inn Ballroom
The Keynote will feature Dr. Stuart Firestein (https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein <https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein> ). Light hors d’oeuvres will be served on a first come, first served basis. Register for this event at http://goo.gl/forms/gQGhUlQWrL. Questions? Email gsa.symposium.2015@gmail.com.

GSA SPRING WINE AND BEER SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 3, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring wine and beer social for an evening of fun and socializing with fellow students. An assortment of beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Must be 21+ with a valid state ID to consume alcohol. General admission is $10 and delegates will be admitted for $5. Non-drinking guests are welcome for $2. Contact Samantha Erwin at sherwin@vt.edu with questions or if you are interested in volunteering for the event.

 

Posted on

Special edition: Graduate Education Week 2015

GEW 2015 COFFEE KICKOFF AT NEWMAN
Monday, Mar 23, 8:30-10:30am, Newman Library 1st floor Multipurpose Room
Jumpstart Grad Ed Week with coffee and a continental breakfast at Newman and meet, chat, and have coffee with experts at the library who can help you with lit reviews, managing data, assessing scholarly impact, using citation management software, and more. Please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425396128971 if you plan to attend.

CITIZEN SCHOLAR RECOGNITION CEREMONY
Monday, Mar 23, 4:00-5:30pm, GLC Room F
Graduate students who have put theory to practice for the advancement of a community will present their projects and receive the Citizen Scholar award. This event is open to all; no registration required. Light refreshments will be served.

GRAD STUDENT GAME NIGHT
Monday, Mar 23, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Student Lounge
Join the GLC Fellows and other graduate students for a fun evening of games and snacks. Some games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite game(s) to share.

REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW
Tuesday, Mar 24, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to format your electronic thesis/dissertation, use EndNote for citations, and what happens to your ETD after you submit it to the Graduate School. Bring your laptop and a pdf copy of your ETD.

GRAD NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: WILD
Tuesday, Mar 24, showings at 7:00 and 9:30pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy a night at the movies, courtesy of the Graduate School and The Lyric. Pick up your free ticket at the GLC Welcome Desk or in 120 GLC, the Graduate School’s student service area.

VT BLACK BEAR RESEARCH CENTER TOUR
Wednesday, Mar 25, Tours at 8:15 and 9:00am; meet at 8:00am and 8:45 in the
GLC Lobby
Tour the black bear research facility and learn how graduate students collect data for their research from the bears. Space is limited to 8-10 people per tour; participants will be taken to the lab by van shuttle. Registration required at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426167779733 for the first tour, or at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426172540279 for the second tour. Registrants will receive an email reminder.

GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AND EXPO
Wednesday, Mar 25, 10:00am-4:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room and meeting rooms
Attend this annual highlight of Graduate Education Week to review the latest in graduate research at this interactive networking forum and poster session, and sit in on presentations as your time allows. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

LINKED-IN LAB
Wednesday, Mar 25, 2:00-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby
Have a free professional headshot photo taken for your LinkedIn profile and learn about how you can use LinkedIn for your job search. Career Services staff will assist you with a review of your profile. Wear appropriate shirt/top for your photo.

LISA 2020: GRADS BUILDING RESEARCH CAPACITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 25, 6:00-7:30pm, GLC Room C
Learn how the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) can help you in your research and the efforts they are making to create a network of 20 statistical collaboration laboratories in developing countries by 2020. Free pizza! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425909047496.

VT INNOVATION SYSTEMS AND COMMERCIALIZING YOUR RESEARCH
Thursday, Mar 26, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room B
Can your research live beyond VT and maybe even help the world? Attend this session to discuss methods and barriers to commercializing research at Virginia Tech and learn how to determine if your research has commercial viability. This session will be led by three individuals locally involved in commercialization and entrepreneurship: Dr. Jack Lesko, Associate Dean of Research & Graduate Studies and Co-Founder, PowerHub Systems (www.pwrhub.com); Mr. Mike Abbott, Founder of Cambrian Development; and Ms. Sherry Walker, Director of NuSpark (NuSpark.org). Lunch will be served. Participants in this session will also be invited to tour NuSpark at a later date. Register at  https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425932415736.  

CREATE YOUR OWN TERRARIUM
Thursday, Mar 26, 2:00pm, Meet at the Horticulture Gardens
Learn about the horticulture program while you create an easy-to-care-for miniature garden under glass for your home or office. Space is limited so please let us know (grads@vt.edu) if you sign-up and then cannot make it. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425574517215.

GLC CAFÉ: GEW EDITION WITH A SPECIAL GIFT RAFFLE
Thursday, Mar 26, 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. Bring your own mug if you can. Participate in a special gift raffle to win coffee/tea-related item(s).

INCLUSIVE VT GRADUATE SCHOOL FORUM, TAKE II
Friday, Mar 27, 10:00am-12:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Vice President and Dean Karen P. DePauw and her staff will give updates on the three Graduate School initiatives and ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts. Dean DePauw will discuss progress made regarding the concerns expressed in the first forum in January. Students will participate in an activity to help answer President Sand’s question, "what would InclusiveVT look like if we were successful beyond our wildest dreams?" Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425398020752.

BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: INDUSTRY OR ACADEME? (Part I)
Friday, Mar 27, 12:00-1:15pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Martha Gross (PhD/CE, MBA ’11) and learn about her journey through graduate school and into the first couple of years of her highly successful career as a senior consultant at Arup. Through anecdotes, case studies and a Q & A with the audience, explore the decision-making process of transitioning from academe to industry and how to put your advanced degrees to the best use.  Free lunch will be served. Part II of the presentation on Monday, Mar 30, will explore how to maintain ties to academia while working in industry. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425912522456.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TECHNIQUES: THE ART OF JUGGLING
Friday, Mar 27, 1:30-2:30pm, GLC Room D
Ever feel like you have too much to do with not enough time or energy? Is the juggling of priorities, deadlines, and work/life balance stressing you out? Learn about stress, how it impacts you daily, and how to better manage it. Get tips on how to live your life in a more mindful way and relax your body and mind in mere minutes! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426099748636.

BIG COOKOUT
Friday, Mar 27, 4:30-6:30pm, Graduate School Lawn and GLC Multipurpose Room
As is our tradition, Graduate Education Week will wrap with the annual favorite big cookout on the lawn. All graduate students and their families are invited to enjoy free food (vegetarian and meat options), music, and games. This year’s specials: caricature artist, balloon twisting, temporary tattoos, pet fortune telling (bring your pet or a photo of him/her), photo booth, and more. Bring a blanket!

We challenge all graduate students to participate in at least one event this week!

Posted on

March 16-22, 2015

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

  • Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
  • Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
  • GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
  • Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
  • Writing assistance: Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP INFO SESSIONS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 11:00am– 3:00pm, GLC Room B
Interested in an international opportunity, but not sure how to finance it? Celebrate International Week by learning about scholarship opportunities. The Fulbright, Boren, Gilman, and Critical Language Scholarship programs will be among the opportunities discussed. Members of the Global Education Office and the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid will be in attendance. Information sessions will be held hourly at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00 and each session will last 30-45 minutes with time for questions. For more information, contact Rebecca Johnson (vtabroad@vt.edu ; 540-231-5888).

3. FEEDING A GROWING WORLD
Tuesday, Mar 17, 12:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This program features VT alum Phil Haynie III, a fifth generation Black farmer who was recently recognized by the White House as a Champion of Change. Mr. Haynie will discuss how the agricultural community will feed 9 billion people in 2050, as well as his experiences as a Black farmer, precision agriculture, the need for scientists and engineers in agriculture, and how to use a Virginia Tech education to serve the world.

4. JELL-O WITH THE FELLOWS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Learn about the GLC Fellow application process, job requirements, and what life is like as a Fellow. Meet current Fellows, their supervisors, and enjoy some delicious Jell-o treats. Information about the position openings can be found at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. 

5. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS: DESIGNING EXPERIMENTS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, 1080 Torgersen Hall
The goal of any scientific experiment is to maximize information gain, while minimizing the cost of the experiment. Taught by Justin Loda, this short course will discuss the three fundamental principles of experimental design (randomization, replication, and local control of error) and their relative importance in designing a useful experiment. Participants will also discuss some commonly designed experiments, such as randomized complete block and split-plot designs, as well as some more advanced. Anyone with little to no background in basic statistical techniques who are interested in acquiring an introduction to experimental design are welcome. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to REGISTER and to learn more.

6. AT THE CROSSROADS: ART, SCIENCE, RESEARCH
Tuesday, Mar 17, 7:30 pm, Cube, Moss Arts Center
During her artist residency at Virginia Tech in 2012, Healing Wars creator and director Liz Lerman engaged with faculty, students, and community members, including researchers at the VT Carilion Research Institute (VT CRI). Join a conversation between Lerman and Michael J. Friedlander, PhD, executive director of the VT CRI, on creative research, scientific research, and their intersections. Co-presented by Community Voices and the Center for Arts at VT. Free; registration required through the box office at https://artscenter.vt.edu/Online/healingwars or (540) 231-5300.

7. WORKSHOP FOR SCIENTISTS AND ARTISTS: MODELING SCIENCE, MODELING IDEAS – register now!
Wednesday Mar 18, 10:00am-12:00pm, Moss Arts Center
With vast improvements in quality and complexity of data in the life sciences, what thinking skills do we need to make sense of what’s there—and to make discoveries? Modeling brings precision and depth to the conceptualizations of biological processes, and embodied learning through "science choreography" catalyzes deconstruction and illumination of the core components and processes in modeling. This hands-on workshop, led by visiting choreographer and MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellow Liz Lerman, is designed especially for mixed groups of artists (theatre and dance) and scientists. No experience necessary. Contact Sarah at sarahhf@vt.edu to sign up. In your message, please indicate if you identify as a scientist, an artist, or both. Limited space is available; slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

8. PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MONTHLY
Wednesday, Mar 18, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
The Parent Support Group is an opportunity for graduate students and their partners who have or are expecting children, designed to provide a place to connect and build community. The group will be meeting Wednesday, March 18 in the GLC. Lunch will be served and partners and children are welcome! Contact Andrea with questions at aswenson@vt.edu. Sign-up at http://www.SignUpGenius.com/go/20F0E4FABAA28A1FF2-parent.

9. THE HEART OF RESEARCH: A CONVERSATION FOR EMERGING SCHOLARS
Wednesday, Mar 18, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Room G
Research is at the heart of what it means to be a graduate student or faculty member. Come share about your work in this interdisciplinary dialogue on the meaning of your research. A free dinner will be served, and all are welcome. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 19, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, explore big and small ideas, and build your network of colleagues and friends.

11. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST –ultimate posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 23-27) and beyond. 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: Tuesday, Mar 17, 2015.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

12. CALLING ALL GRADUATE STUDENT ENTERTAINERS FOR GEW PERFORMANCE –ultimate posting
The Graduate School is seeking students to provide entertainment during the Graduate Education Week Big Cook-out on Friday, March 27. The circus-themed cook-out will run from 4:30-6:30pm on the Graduate School Lawn.  Entertainers needed include face painters, balloon artists, caricature artists, jugglers, or anything that may fit into our theme. To join our slate of performers, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1422907809572  Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu if you have questions.

13. GSA RESEARCH FUNDING CYCLE OPEN NEXT WEEK – 1st posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program! The GRDP provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Applications for the spring cycle are accepted Mar 23-Apr 3, with winners announced in early May. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Email hglane07@vt.edu with "GRDP" in the subject line with any questions.

14. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO DIVERSITY COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE: BREAKING STEREOTYPES
The CAUS Diversity Committee invites all university students, faculty, and staff to express their perspective on "Breaking Stereotypes". Entries can comprise any of the following media: essay, music, painting, photography, poster, and video, etc and must be submitted by Mar 25, 5:00pm. Competition rules and an entry form are available at http://caus.vt.edu/diversity/diversity-index.html. Submission can be delivered to: Carolyn Harris, cjharris@vt.edu; CAUS Dean’s Office, 202 Cowgill. Awards: Faculty/staff – 1st place $750; Grad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250; Ugrad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250.

15. JOIN NEW 30-AND-OVER GRAD GROUP – 3rd posting
Welcome to all VT 30-and-over students who sometimes feel out of place in the traditional social circles of school. This group is intended to be social, fun and non-serious. Coffee date? OK. Hiking in the Blue Ridge? Fantastic! Bowling? I’m up for it! Planned events can be accessed through our GoogleGroups site https://groups.google.com/d/forum/VT-over-30. If you are part of a sub group (parents, athletic enthusiast, belly button lint collecting) let the group know and organize events within this group. The idea is to make everyone welcome and get to know other 30 and overs on VT’s campus.

16. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS INVITED – 3rd posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award.  If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website, http://graduateschool.vt.edu/gs/tge/cse.  Applications are due Mar 16.  For more information, email Shelby Ward, shelby08@vt.edu.

17. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR LATINO LECTURE SERIES – 3rd posting
This project aims to provide a space for mentoring relationships to organically occur. Please nominate students to the Latino Lecture Series: students who have turned in a paper, done research on, or can discuss topics specifically related to the Latino community can be nominated to present at this symposium. Nomination process: submit students’ first name, last name, email address, major, and a title for the project, paper, or research to miguelam@vt.edu.

18. GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 3rd posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2015-16 academic year. An ideal candidate would have previous residence life and/or event planning experience, though it is not a requirement. Applicants must submit a formal cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation, as well as complete the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1424447226591 . Information about cover letter requirements is at the survey link; full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. Apply by Mar 27, 2015. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Jacob Soles at jsoles11@vt.edu  if you have questions.

19. GRAD RESIDENTIAL FELLOW (GRF) OPENINGS IN WEST AJ RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE – 3rd posting
The West AJ Residential College is a community of 850 multi-generational students ranging from first-year to graduate from all academic disciplines. The GRF is a live-in position with responsibilities that include:  strong presence in the "house" and residential college; know each student living in the house; coordinate activities and experiences that facilitate community and serve the goals of the Residential College; serve as a role model; assist Faculty Principal and Associate Faculty Principal; serve as advisor for House Council; use the provided major on-campus meal plan to attend weekly House Dinners at the D2; facilitate the room and selection process; participate in trainings and meetings; other duties as assigned. Must invest min. 10 hrs/wk within house community; must be FT VT grad student in good academic standing, and have strong affinity for working with people within a residential setting. An interest in strengthening the academic/ intellectual undergraduate experience for a diverse array of students is required. GRFs receive a single room and a major on-campus meal plan and are appointed for a 1-year term, but are eligible for re-appointment for another 1-year term, based on performance. Ideally, a GRF serves in the position for 2 consecutive years. To apply, email letter of interest, resume, & contact information for 3 references to: Amanda Eagan, Assistant Student Life Coordinator, aeagan2@vt.edu.

20. VT SENSORY LAB PANELISTS SOUGHT TO TASTE MILK SAMPLES
Wednesday, Mar 18, 2:00 and 6:00pm
Thursday, Mar 19, 2:00 and 6:00pm
Friday, Mar 20, 10:00am and 4:00pm
Participants in the panels will be given a set of milk samples and asked to identify the different sample. Must be 18 years or older and do not have an allergy to milk. Come to the new Human and Agricultural Biosciences Building, Rm 205, 1230 Washington St SW (corner of Washington St and Duck Pond Rd; across from VBI. The testing should take approximately 10-15 minutes. You will be compensated for your participation. Each panel you participate you will receive 2 stamps; when you receive 10 stamps you will get a gift card. A light snack (choice of soda, chips, fruit, cookies, etc) will be available after each panel. For more information contact Kemia Amin, master’s student in food science and technology, kamin2@vt.edu.

21. UPCOMING EVENTS:

GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK 2015 – Mar 23-27!
See http://graduateschool.vt.edu/GEW for a full schedule. Many events require pre-registration and spots may be limited, so please sign up early if you plan to participate! Some Highlights:

  • GEW Coffee Kickoff at Newman – 3/23 8:30am, 1st floor Multipurpose Room
  • Grad Night at The Lyric – 3/24; pick up your free ticket in the GLC
  • VT Black Bear Research Tour – 3/25; must pre-register online, spaces limited
  • GSA Research Symposium – 3/25 10:00-4:00, GLC
  • VT Innovation Systems and Your Research – 3/26 12:00pm must pre-register for free lunch and presentation
  • Create Your Own Terrarium – 3/26 2:00pm must pre-register; spaces are limited
  • InclusiveVT Grad Forum – 3/27 10:00am, GLC
  • Building a Professional Career with Purpose – 3/27 12:00pm must pre-register for free lunch and presentation
  • Big Cook Out with music, food and games – 3/27 4:30-6:30, GLC Lawn

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Remaining Spring 2015 Schedule:

  • Monday & Tuesday, March 23 & 24: Using ggplot2 to produce enhanced graphics in R;*
  • Tuesday, April 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
  • Tuesday, April 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;

*Two sessions of the same course to accommodate more attendees.
Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

31ST ANNUAL GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Wednesday, Mar 25, 10:00am – 4:00pm
See the outstanding results of research efforts of your fellow graduate students: oral presentations and poster sessions will occur throughout the day. Questions? Email gsa.symposium.2015@gmail.com.

NETWORKING SESSION AND PROFESSIONAL PANEL SEEKS PARTICIPANTS– sign up now!
Saturday, Mar 28, McBryde Hall
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc is partnering with the TRiO Programs at Virginia Tech to sponsor this event during the College and Career. The group is seeking individuals from various professional and educational backgrounds to participate on the panel and to be present at the networking session.  If you are interested in participating please email your name, major/degree, work title(s), occupation, email contact information and whether you will be joining for lunch to Brielle Wright at bswright@vt.edu. Please sign up by Thursday, Mar 5. You will receive additional information from the TRiO Programs regarding any additional logistical information.

GSA SPRING WINE AND BEER SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 3, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring wine and beer social for an evening of fun and socializing with fellow students. An assortment of beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Must be 21+ with a valid state ID to consume alcohol. General admission is $10 and delegates will be admitted for $5. Non-drinking guests are welcome for $2. Contact Samantha Erwin at sherwin@vt.edu with questions or if you are interested in volunteering for the event.