Month: August 2011

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC (all on a walk-in basis; no appointment needed)

• Career services advising: Wednesdays, 1:30-5:00pm, GLC Study Room
• Counseling:  Wednesdays and Thursdays, 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room (across from Room G)
• Statistical consulting by LISA: Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
• Writing support: Wednesdays (6-9pm) and Thursdays (6-9pm), GLC Videoconference Room

2. QUEER GRADS AND ALLIES WEEKLY MEETING
Tuesday(s), Aug 30, 6:30-8:00pm, GLC Room C
Queer Grads and Allies (QG&A) is a registered Graduate Student Organization that provides resources, support, events, and activities for graduate students at Virginia Tech, both queer and allied. The meeting alternates weekly between formal meetings in GLC Room C and downtown get-togethers for dinner and drinks. The first formal meeting is this Tuesday at 6:30 with Dean DePauw! Check out the group’s website at http://queergradsandallies.weebly.com/, or email Katelin Shugart-Schmidt, katelin@vt.edu, for more information.

3. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Wednesdays, 6:30pm, GLC Room B
InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship meets weekly for a free dinner and interactive Bible discussion. All graduate students are welcome!  Learn more AT http://www.gcf.org.vt.edu/.

4. GLC CAFÉ   
Thursdays, starting Sep 1, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy free coffee and tea in the GLC Reading Room on Thursday afternoons and socialize with your fellow grads. On some weeks we’ll have faculty guests; at other times we’ll feature coffee from different countries; sometimes we’ll have graduate student organizations as hosts; and yet at other times we’ll surprise you with something new, but you have to be there to see it. But there will always be coffee, tea and cookies! Please contact us at grads@vt.edu if you have any comments or suggestions about this event.

5. FRIDAY SWING DANCE WEEKLY
Fridays, 7:30pm-midnight, Blacksburg YMCA
The Southwest Virginia Social Dance Society (SVSDS) invites you to their weekly Friday night dance, a great opportunity for graduate students to make new friends, learn to dance, and have fun!  Beginner’s swing lesson starts at 7:30, open dance at 8:30. If it’s your first time, your entry is free! Posted on behalf of grad student Matt Bays, mjb222@vt.edu.

6. FREE GRAD STUDENT HANDBOOK & PLANNER WHILE SUPPLIES LAST   
Pick up your free copy of the 2011-12 Graduate Student Handbook and Planner (courtesy of the Graduate School) in the GLC while supplies last. Planners are available in the student services area (120 GLC), at the information desk and in the Reading Room.

7. GSA OFFICE HOURS + T-SHIRTS FOR SALE
The GSA executive assistant will hold office hours on Tue 8-10am and Wed 1:30-3:30pm or by appointment, beginning Wed, Aug 25, in the student organizations suite in 25 GLC (next to ABP). Drop in to purchase a "You know you’re a graduate student when….." T-shirt: $5 and $8 for short- and long- sleeved respectively. XXL and larger cost $1 extra. Please e-mail Angela Post at arpost@vt.edu for appointments.

8. GOBBLERFEST SURVEY – PLEASE PROVIDE FEEDBACK
In order to continuously improve the Gobblerfest experience for everyone, the Gobblerfest 2011 planning team would like to hear from you! Please complete a short survey about your experience – it should only take about 10 minutes of your time. If you attended Gobblerfest and respond to this survey, you will be entered to win two (2) tickets to see Bill Cosby or the Plain White T’s! Both performers will be coming to campus this fall. Please enter your name and email address at the end of the survey to be entered into the drawings. Access the survey here: http://studentvoice.com/vtechweb/Gobblerfest2011StudentSurvey. The survey will close on Sep 5 at 11:59pm. Thank you for your time, and welcome to the Hokie neighborhood!

9. 2011-12 UNIVERSITY-SPONSORED HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN – SIGN UP BY OCT 3
At Virginia Tech, domestic students are encouraged, but not required, to have personal health insurance. International students and veterinary medicine student are required to have health insurance either through VT plan (provided by Aetna) or a comparable plan. Eligible graduate assistants wishing to use the health care subsidy must enroll in the VT plan.  Highlights of the Aetna plan include:
– Enhanced benefits when used with Schiffert Health Center
– Coverage anywhere – at school, home or traveling and through the summer
– Access to travel assistance services, including emergency assistance 24/7
– Access to Aetna’s nationwide network of health care professionals
– Vision benefits included within the medical plan
– Optional dental insurance plan available
To learn more, go to www.virginiatechhealthplan.com, or  call Aetna Student Health at (866) 577-7027. Fall Open Enrollment Deadline: October 3rd.

10. NEW INTERDISCIPLINARY GRADUATE EDUCATION WEBSITE
Visit our new interdisciplinary graduate education website: https://interdisciplinary.graduateschool.vt.edu/ Please send any comments or suggestions to Dr. Annie Aigster, director of interdisciplinary graduate education, aaigster@vt.edu.

11. EMERGENCY BIKE KITS AVAILABLE ON CAMPUS – 2nd posting
Emergency bike kits are available at three locations on campus: (1) Perry Street parking garage office (2) Squires Student Center information desk (3) War Memorial Gym equipment desk. To use the kits, simply go to one of the three locations during their business hours, present your Hokie Passport, and fill out a sign out sheet. Once you made the necessary repairs to your bike, replace all of the kit contents and return it to the same locations. These kits are brought to you by Virginia Tech’s Alternative Transportation Department. The staff members at the kit locations are not required to have any bike-repair knowledge. Kits contain standard bike pumps and basic tools for common adjustments and minor repairs. For more information please visit http://www.facilities.vt.edu/tcs/alternative/ or contact Debby Freed,  at 540-231-0248 or dfreed@vt.edu.

12. GRAD ASSISTANTSHIP POSITION OPEN – 1st posting
VT Department of Music Digital Interactive Sound & Intermedia Studio (DISIS) is looking to fill a GA position as soon as possible. The assistantship includes full tuition waiver plus a monthly stipend (approx. level 7). GA will assist in daily operations of the studio (software and equipment maintenance, assistance with conducting specific research projects including Linux Laptop Orchestra (L2Ork)). Music training and computer programming skills are desired. Knowledge of Linux is a plus. For additional info please contact Dr. Ivica Ico Bukvic at ico@vt.edu. For additional info on DISIS please visit http://disis.music.vt.edu. For additional info on L2Ork, please visit http://l2ork.music.vt.edu.

13. RECRUITMENT VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT – 1st posting
The Graduate School Office of Recruitment and Diversity Initiatives is seeking recruiters. If you would like to help in the recruitment of more graduate students from your alma mater, home country, or from your discipline, please contact Dannette Beane at dannette@vt.edu or 540-231-6529. Recruitment materials, travel funds and training are available. Emphasis is given to recruitment involving Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, Tribal Colleges, and conferences focused on underrepresented students (this includes women in STEM).

14. PKJ IS SEEKING COPY EDITOR – 2nd posting
The Public Knowledge Journal (PKJ) invites applications for the position of copy editor. PKJ is a multidisciplinary, graduate-student-run, electronic journal hosted by the Center for Digital Discourse and Culture at Virginia Tech (ISSN 1948-3511). The journal incorporates a variety of communication technologies to sustain a conversation about the topics and questions raised in each issue. For more information about the journal visit http://pkjournal.org.  If you are interested in applying, please email editor@pkjournal.org.

15. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL FAIR – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly is looking for volunteers to make this year’s Graduate and Professional School Fair a success. This yearly fundraiser will be held on Monday, Sep 26, at Squires Commonwealth Ballroom. Volunteers may sign up for a 1-hr or longer shift assisting with set-up, transportation services, general support, check in/registration desk help and more. Free t-shirt and food will be provided for all volunteers! Please complete the registration form to provide your contact information and shift preferences: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dERNVXZYMy1OMXNqNm9FU3dDb0V4LUE6MQ#gid=0. Questions: Contact Courtney Gleason at vtgpsf@gmail.com.

16. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY I – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for a study investigating the effects of flexion and lifting on the biomechanics and neuromuscular control of the human torso.  The study consists of six separate experimental sessions (each lasting approximately 2 hrs) and participants will be compensated $10/hour.  To qualify you must be between the ages of 18-29, have a lean body, and regularly exercise at least 2-3 times per week.  For more information or to inquire about participation, please contact Brad at hendershot@vt.edu.  Please include your age, gender, and general availability when responding.

17. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY II – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a study investigating the effects of job rotation on muscle fatigue and performance. The study consists of 6 separate experimental sessions (each lasting 2-2.5 hrs) and one screening session. Participants will be compensated $10/hour with a $10 bonus after completing all sessions. Requirements: male or female, age 18-25, low body fat, right handed, 20/20 vision (corrected okay), no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders, and exercise 2-3 times/week. If interested, please contact Leanna Horton at lhorton@vt.edu.

18. DRIVERS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY – 2nd posting
VTTI is looking for people with a 2006 or newer vehicle to participate in a federally-funded safety research project. Must be 18 or older. Vehicle monitoring equipment will be placed in your car for up to one month to record your normal driving behavior. Participants will receive $300.00 for full participation. All information and data is kept secure and confidential. For more info please contact Christine Link-Owens at 540-231-1532.
 
19. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 3rd posting
VT researchers seek volunteers for a project on the “Benefits of immersion for analysis of micro-CT datasets,” to help gather quantitative and qualitative insights into immersion benefits while exploring a complex scientific dataset like that of microscopic computed tomography data. The study consists of carrying out few tasks (answering few questions) related to two selected micro-CT datasets, which will be volume visualized on a state-of-the-art  spatially immersive stereo display system, in the Visionarium at 3050 Torgersen. The experiment lasts for about 1.5 hrs. This study has been IRB approved.  The researchers need 17 more participants who are selected on a first come first served basis. Participants must be more than 18 years old with no or minimal background in micro-CT imaging to participate in this experiment. The available time slots for participation are available here: http://people.cs.vt.edu/blaha/schedule.html. Please email to Bireswar Laha at blaha@vt.edu, with your preferred time slot from the above page to sign up for your participation.

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF SITTING EFFECTS – 3rd posting
You are invited to participate in a study aimed at testing muscle activities in a seated posture. Participants must be in no current or recent history (1 year) of physical disorders affecting the shoulder, knee, or lower back; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk); and be between ages 18-64. Participants will be required to perform several computer-based typing tasks in a laboratory setting. Each experiment session will last 2 to 3 hours and participants will be compensated $10/hour. For more information, please email to sjayvt@gmail.com.

21. UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR NON-STAT MAJORS
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these 2-hr courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Short courses will be held from 5-7PM.
Fall 2011 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Sep 6: What LISA Can Do for You and a Tutorial in T-Tests and ANOVA;
• Tuesday, Sep 13 & Thursday, Sep 15: Introduction to JMP; *
• Tuesday, Sep 20: Introduction to Design and Analysis of Experiments;
• Tuesday, Sep 27 & Thursday, Sep 29: Introduction to R; *
• Tuesday, Oct 4: Applying Statistics in Research: Case Studies;

*These courses will be held in 3080 Torgersen, all other courses are held in Fralin Auditorium. They are one-session courses offered twice so that more students can attend. For more information, please visit www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

GSA MOVIE NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: HARRY POTTER! 
Tuesday, Sep 6, 6:50pm, The Lyric
Join your fellow grads at the historic Lyric Theater (downtown on College Ave) to watch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2! Meet in front of the Lyric at 6:50pm. Tickets are $6.00 per person. Contact Amanda Shea at ashea04@vt.edu with questions.

LEARN TURKISH AT VT
Starting Wednesday, Sep 7, 6:00pm, Cranwell International Center
Experienced teachers are offering Turkish language classes at the Cranwell International Center through the Intercultural Understanding Club. You don’t need to know any Turkish to start these classes; courses are offered from elementary to advanced levels. For the fall program: One hour-long class per week, four classes in a month. Please register via http://www.icuc.org.vt.edu/turkish. Please email graduate student Haktan Suren at hsuren@vt.edu if you have any questions. Classes are free and open to anyone interested.

GSA WELCOME BACK HAPPY HOUR – WITH AN INT’L TWIST!
Friday, Sep 9, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
GSA is hosting their annual “Welcome Back Happy Hour” featuring international brews. The cost is $5.00/person (cash) at the door for 2 beers (or 6 tastings) and snacks ($2 for snacks only). All graduate students, post-docs, and faculty members are welcome to come and enjoy a great start to the semester. Valid ID required for entry. Contact Amanda Shea at ashea04@vt.edu with any questions.

ISVT ANNUAL SHOWCASE
Saturday, Sep 10, 6:00-7:00pm, Commonwealth Ballroom in Squires
The Iranian Society at VT invites you to this showcase that represents the cultural contribution and scholarly achievements of the Iranian community at Virginia Tech and promotes the exchange of ideas between researches from variety of backgrounds. Posters will be evaluated by a committee of faculty members from pertaining colleges and the awards ceremony will follow. This message is posted on behalf of master’s student Aida Farough, afarough@vt.edu.

GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAINING
Do you think upholding academic integrity at Virginia Tech is important? If so, then you may want to serve as a panelist for the Graduate Honor System.  The GHS is looking for both faculty and students to join a volunteer team of panelists who serve on investigative and judicial panels and may hold information sessions/orientations to academic departments about the GHS.  To learn more about the GHS, visit http://ghs.grads.vt.edu/. To become a panelist, you must attend a one-hour training session.  The next training sessions will be:

• Wednesday, September 14 @ 9:00 am in GLC Room C
• Thursday, September 15 @ 7:00pm in GLC Room B
• Friday, September 16 @ noon in GLC Room B

Please complete the following survey to indicate which training session you would attend: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1314384492725

1. AETNA STUDENT MEDICAL INSURANCE ENROLLMENT FAIR
This week and next week the Student Medical Insurance Office will have a temporary office in the main lobby of the GLC to assist graduate students with questions and enrollment for the 2011-2012 Aetna student health insurance plans. The stations will be staffed as follows:

• Tue, Aug 23: 8-12
• Wed, Aug 24: 1-5
• Thu, Aug 25: 8-12

2. FREE GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES THIS WEEK
Aug 22-29: All group exercise classes, from abs to Zumba, are free for students to try the first week of school in McComas Hall and students, faculty, and staff in War Memorial Hall. Group X schedule now available here.

3. RENTING? WHAT TO KNOW AND EXPECT
August 23, 5:30pm, GLC Room C
Learn about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and how to maintain good credit while you are renting. Refreshments will be provided. Sponsored by New River Community Action.

4. HEALTH SERVICES AND INSURANCE INFORMATION SESSION
Wednesday, Aug 24, 5:00pm, GLC Room C
Representatives from Aetna Student Health and Schiffert Health Center will discuss how to enroll in the university-sponsored insurance, what the plan covers, and what services are offered at the health center. Free pizza will be served.

5. LAIGSA BOARD AND MEMBER MEETING
Wednesday, Aug 24, 7:00pm, Room D in the GLC
Join members of the Latin American and Iberian Graduate Student Association (LAIGSA) for its first meeting of the semester, where the board will take office and present a plan of activities for the fall. You can contribute fresh ideas and meet old and new members. Non-Latino students are also welcome! For more information contact Raul Saucedo.

6. CAREER SERVICES TAILGATE PARTY
Friday, Aug 26, 10:00am–3:00pm, Smith Career Center
Kick off the year with Career Services, meet employer sponsors, and enjoy some free food, fun games and prizes. Win an iPad2, flip video camera, Nook, Kindle, or a tailgate party package. Learn more at the Career Center’s website.

7. ASSOCIATION FOR INDIA’S DEVELOPEMENT: FRESHER’S PARTY 2011
Friday, Aug 26, 6:00pm, 232 Squires
The Association for India’s Development, a graduate student organization,  invites you to its fresher’s party. This is a forum to share your thoughts on how to develop India and your political views. Free Indian snacks available. For more information contact Tannistha Maiti.

8. GOBBLERFEST 2011
Virginia Tech welcomes all new and returning students with this outdoor festival and late night activities in Squires Student Center. Get to know what the university and the town have to offer. Learn more>>>. 

9. BGSO ANNUAL WELCOME BACK COOK OUT
Saturday, Aug 27, 2:00pm, home of Drs. Wayne and Glenda Scales (2112 Birch Leaf Ln, Bburg)
The Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) invites you to this annual cook out. Family friendly, faculty/staff welcome, bring friends & loved ones, music, games, socialize, mingle! All are welcome and encouraged to come. Enter the home-made dessert battle! If you are willing to help with set up, please email to BGSO.

10. GRADUATE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE: GRAD 5984, CRN 98416 & CRN 98447
Enroll in this ALS-team-taught course that contains two modules: (Module 1) Research Ethics and (Module 2) Communication Skills. Students can sign up for either or both modules and receive 1 credit for each. Each module is delivered within a six-week period during the semester. Module 1 Aug 29–Oct 10, and Module 2 Oct 17-Dec 5. Topics covered include IACUC, IRB, Endnote, plagiarism, lab note books, abstracts, peer review, grant proposal review, and more. Contact Isis Mullarky (Module 1) or Glenda Gillaspy (Module 2) for more information.

11. EMERGENCY BIKE KITS AVAILABLE ON CAMPUS
Emergency bike kits are available at three locations on campus: (1) Perry Street parking garage office (2) Squires Student Center information desk (3) War Memorial Gym equipment desk. To use the kits, simply go to one of the three locations during their business hours, present your Hokie Passport, and fill out a sign out sheet. Once you made the necessary repairs to your bike, replace all of the kit contents and return it to the same locations. These kits are brought to you by Virginia Tech’s Alternative Transportation Department. The staff members at the kit locations are not required to have any bike-repair knowledge. Kits contain standard bike pumps and basic tools for common adjustments and minor repairs. For more information contact Debby Freed,  540-231-0248.

12. PARKING PERMIT PAYROLL DEDUCTION NOW AVAILABLE FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS
Graduate assistants (GAs, GTAs and GRAs) are now able to purchase the parking permits using payroll deduction. This new program allows qualified students* to purchase permits with pre-tax dollars and spread the cost over the duration of their assistantship appointment (maximum 17 pay periods). The amount deducted from each payroll will be determined by the time frame of the appointment set in Banner by the hiring department. To purchase this permit, students must go in person to the main Parking Services Office at 455 Tech Center Drive.  This option is not available online. *The hiring department must enter the position into Banner prior to being able to enroll in the pre-tax permit deduction program.  *This program is only available to graduate assistants whose appointment begins in the fall semester. For more information please contact Parking Services.

13. PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRADUATE ASSISTANTS
It is not too late to enroll in payroll deduction of your comp fees if you are on a graduate assistantship! Graduate students on assistantship appointment may pay their comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction during the fall and spring semesters. To be eligible for this program, students must commit to paying the full-time comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction. Enrollment is managed through Hokie SPA and students must sign up _each_ semester in which they wish to take advantage of this opportunity. Details>>>.

14. VERIFY YOUR IN-STATE CLASSIFICATION STATUS NOW!
Please review your student status in HokieSPA and your e-bill from the Bursar to make sure that you in-state or out-of-state status appears properly. If you believe that you are eligible for in-state classification but are not listed as an in-state student, please review our website about eligibility requirements, and submit an application for in-state residency.

15. WAGE JOB OPPORTUNITY: TUTORS FOR ENGINEERING COURSES –  2nd posting
The office of Student Athlete Academic Support Services seeks tutors for fall 2011 for all engineering courses. Competitive pay, flexible hours, great learning experience. Apply online, or contact Erica Hampton for more information.

16. PKJ IS SEEKING COPY EDITOR – 1st posting
The Public Knowledge Journal (PKJ) invites applications for the position of copy editor. PKJ is a multidisciplinary, graduate-student-run, electronic journal hosted by the Center for Digital Discourse and Culture at Virginia Tech (ISSN 1948-3511). The journal incorporates a variety of communication technologies to sustain a conversation about the topics and questions raised in each issue. For more information about the journal visit the PKJ homepage.  If you are interested in applying, please email to the editor.

17. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL FAIR
The Graduate Student Assembly is looking for volunteers to make this year’s Graduate and Professional School Fair a success. This yearly fundraiser will be held on Monday, Sep 26, at Squires Commonwealth Ballroom. Volunteers may sign up for a 1-hr or longer shift assisting with set-up, transportation services, general support, check in/registration desk help and more. Free t-shirt and food will be provided for all volunteers! Please complete the registration form to provide your contact information and shift preferences. Questions: Contact Courtney Gleason.

18. 2012 GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM — BECOME A COMMITTEE MEMBER! – 3rd posting
The GSA Research Symposium, to be held Mar 28, 2012, is an opportunity for graduate students to showcase their research. GSA invites you to become a member of the 2012 Graduate Research Symposium Committee. You may serve on one of the following subcommittees: website, sponsorship, judging, publicity, event organization, and keynote speaker. Interested in getting involved? Fill out this short survey. Questions: Contact Alireza Salmanzadeh, Research Symposium Chair.

19. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY I – 1st posting
Participants are sought for a study investigating the effects of flexion and lifting on the biomechanics and neuromuscular control of the human torso.  The study consists of six separate experimental sessions (each lasting approximately 2 hrs) and participants will be compensated $10/hour.  To qualify you must be between the ages of 18-29, have a lean body, and regularly exercise at least 2-3 times per week.  For more information or to inquire about participation, please contact Brad.  Please include your age, gender, and general availability when responding.

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR BIOMECHANICS STUDY II – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a study investigating the effects of job rotation on muscle fatigue and performance. The study consists of 6 separate experimental sessions (each lasting 2-2.5 hrs) and one screening session. Participants will be compensated $10/hour with a $10 bonus after completing all sessions. Requirements: male or female, age 18-25, low body fat, right handed, 20/20 vision (corrected okay), no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders, and exercise 2-3 times/week. If interested, please contact Leanna Horton.

21. DRIVERS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH STUDY – 1st posting
VTTI is looking for people with a 2006 or newer vehicle to participate in a federally-funded safety research project. Must be 18 or older. Vehicle monitoring equipment will be placed in your car for up to one month to record your normal driving behavior. Participants will receive $300.00 for full participation. All information and data is kept secure and confidential. For more info please contact Christine Link-Owens at 540-231-1532.
 
22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 2nd posting
VT researchers seek volunteers for a project on the “Benefits of immersion for analysis of micro-CT datasets,” to help gather quantitative and qualitative insights into immersion benefits while exploring a complex scientific dataset like that of microscopic computed tomography data. The study consists of carrying out few tasks (answering few questions) related to two selected micro-CT datasets, which will be volume visualized on a state-of-the-art  spatially immersive stereo display system, in the Visionarium at 3050 Torgersen. The experiment lasts for about 1.5 hrs. This study has been IRB approved.  The researchers need 17 more participants who are selected on a first come first served basis. Participants must be more than 18 years old with no or minimal background in micro-CT imaging to participate in this experiment. The available time slots for participation are available here: http://people.cs.vt.edu/blaha/schedule.html. Please email to Bireswar Laha, with your preferred time slot from the above page to sign up for your participation.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF SITTING EFFECTS – 2nd posting
You are invited to participate in a study aimed at testing muscle activities in a seated posture. Participants must be in no current or recent history (1 year) of physical disorders affecting the shoulder, knee, or lower back; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk); and be between ages 18-64. Participants will be required to perform several computer-based typing tasks in a laboratory setting. Each experiment session will last 2 to 3 hours and participants will be compensated $10/hour. For more information, please email to sjayvt@gmail.com.

24. UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES FOR NON-STAT MAJORS
LISA (Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these 2-hr courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Visit LISA for instructions on how to register and to learn more. Short courses will be held from 5-7PM.
Fall 2011 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Sep 6: What LISA Can Do for You and a Tutorial in T-Tests and ANOVA;
• Tuesday, Sep 13 & Thursday, Sep 15: Introduction to JMP; *
• Tuesday, Sep 20: Introduction to Design and Analysis of Experiments;
• Tuesday, Sep 27 & Thursday, Sep 29: Introduction to R; *
• Tuesday, Oct 4: Applying Statistics in Research: Case Studies;

*These courses will be held in 3080 Torgersen, all other courses are held in Fralin Auditorium. For more information, please visit www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

1. AETNA STUDENT MEDICAL INSURANCE ENROLLMENT FAIR
This week and next week the Student Medical Insurance Office will have a temporary office in the main lobby of the GLC to assist graduate students with questions and enrollment for the 2011-2012 Aetna student health insurance plans. The stations will be staffed as follows:

• Tue, Aug 16: 1-5pm
• Wed, Aug 17: 8-5
• Thu, Aug 18: 8-5
• Fri, Aug 19: 1-5
• Tue, Aug 23: 8-12
• Wed, Aug 24: 1-5
• Thu, Aug 25: 8-12

2. GSA WELCOME BACK BBQ!
Wednesday, Aug 17, 4:00-7:00pm, University Club Lawn
Start the semester off right with the Welcome Back BBQ sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly! Meet new and returning students while enjoying some yard games and music with free BBQ (vegetarian options available) from Log Cabin BBQ. Questions: Contact Amanda Shea. Please note that you may have received a pink flyer earlier that erroneously listed the BBQ for Tuesday. The correct date is Wednesday, Aug 17.

3. HEALTH INSURANCE INFORMATION SESSION
Wednesday, Aug 17, 6:15pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Aetna Student Health is the new health insurance carrier for the 2011-2012 academic year. Learn about the available plans, what they cover, and how you can enroll. Click here to enroll in the university-sponsored health insurance online. Graduate students (GA’s, GTA’s and GRA’s) eligible for the health insurance subsidy should choose a “subsidy plan” and should show a $0 balance when completing the enrollment process.

4. HEALTH SERVICES AND INFORMATION SESSION
Thursday, Aug 18, 1:00pm, GLC Room C
Representatives from Aetna Student Health and Schiffert Health Center will discuss how to enroll in the university-sponsored insurance, what the plan covers, and what services are offered at the health center. This session will be repeated on Wednesday, Aug 24, at 5:00pm, when free pizza will also be served.

5. MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME IN BLACKSBURG
Thursday, Aug 18, 4:30-6:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
This event replaces this week’s GLC Café: New and returning students are welcome to connect with faculty, staff, and community resources that can help you succeed in graduate school and maintain a healthy life balance. Food and fun (and practical) door prizes provided! Please sign up here if you plan to attend. Contact Dannette Beane with any questions.

6. GRADUATE STUDENT ORIENATION
August 19, 9:00-11:00am, GLC Auditorium
Our welcome event for new students filled with valuable information to help you get started in your graduate studies at Virginia Tech. Meet the Graduate School Dean, members of the Graduate School and Graduate Student Assembly. Learn what is expected from students and faculty and gain helpful tips for a successful graduate career. Light breakfast refreshments will be served from 8:30am in the Multipurpose Room.

7. FRESHER’S PARTY 2011: DHOOM MACHALE
Saturday, Aug 20, 5:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The Indian Student Association invites you to its fresher’s party: get ready to rock and roll on the Bollywood-Hollywood dance floor as the freshers make their way through to the Mr. & Miss ISA contest. Indian snacks will be provided. The menu for the event includes Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Pakora, Dhokla, Dahi Vada and Mango Lassi. Dress code: Any western Party Dress. Purchase tickets here.

8. DRAGON’S TOOTH HIKE AND HOMEPLACE VISIT WITH OCVT
Sunday, Aug 21, 2:00pm, meet in Squires Parking Lot (next to GLC)
The Outdoors Club of VT (OCVT) will lead a small group up the nearby Dragon’s Tooth peak on the Appalachian Trail, about a 40 min drive from campus. Following this 5mi (9km) round-trip hike, the group will head to the Homeplace Restaurant for some all-you-can-eat Southern style buffet dinner. This hike is one of the most-traveled in the area and is accessible to anyone who can walk 5 miles and climb up two ladder rungs. The restaurant is also a “must-see” for any Tech student with Southern cuisine: fried chicken, ham, roast beef, apple-butter biscuits, mashed potatoes, etc (not vegetarian friendly). Join the group to meet some fellow grads and find out about other hikes, camping trips, and events planned for the coming year by the Outdoors Club. The group will carpool as much as possible, so let Ben Freedman know if you can drive or if you have questions or want to participate. Wear sturdy tennis shoes, light hikers, or good walking shoes and carry  1-2 l of water (required) and a light lunch to keep you energized on the hike up; $15 for the Homeplace, and $1-2 for the drivers to help with gas.

9. PARKING PERMIT PAYROLL DEDUCTION NOW AVAILABLE FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS
Graduate assistants (GAs, GTAs and GRAs) are now able to purchase the parking permits using payroll deduction. This new program allows qualified students* to purchase permits with pre-tax dollars and spread the cost over the duration of their assistantship appointment (maximum 17 pay periods). The amount deducted from each payroll will be determined by the time frame of the appointment set in Banner by the hiring department. To purchase this permit, students must go in person to the main Parking Services Office at 455 Tech Center Drive.  This option is not available online. *The hiring department must enter the position into Banner prior to being able to enroll in the pre-tax permit deduction program.  *This program is only available to graduate assistants whose appointment begins in the fall semester. For more information please contact Parking Services.

10. PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRADUATE ASSISTANTS
It is not too late to enroll in payroll deduction of your comp fees if you are on a graduate assistantship! Graduate students on assistantship appointment may pay their comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction during the fall and spring semesters. To be eligible for this program, students must commit to paying the full-time comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction. Enrollment is managed through Hokie SPA and students must sign up _each_ semester in which they wish to take advantage of this opportunity. Learn more>>.

11. VERIFY YOUR IN-STATE CLASSIFICATION STATUS NOW!
Please review your student status in HokieSPA and your e-bill from the Bursar to make sure that you in-state or out-of-state status appears properly. If you believe that you are eligible for in-state classification but are not listed as an in-state student, please review our website about eligibility requirements, and submit an application for in-state residency.

12. WAGE JOB OPPORTUNITY: TUTORS FOR ENGINEERING COURSES – 1st posting
The office of Student Athlete Academic Support Services seeks tutors for fall 2011 for all engineering courses. Competitive pay, flexible hours, great learning experience. Apply online at www.saass.vt.edu/tutoring.php, or contact Erica Hampton for more information.

13. 2012 GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM — BECOME A COMMITTEE MEMBER! – 2nd posting
The GSA Research Symposium, to be held Mar 28, 2012, is an opportunity for graduate students to showcase their research. GSA invites you to become a member of the 2012 Graduate Research Symposium Committee. You may serve on one of the following subcommittees: website, sponsorship, judging, publicity, event organization, and keynote speaker. Interested in getting involved? Fill out this short survey. Questions: Contact Alireza Salmanzadeh, Research Symposium Chair.

14. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 1st posting
VT researchers seek volunteers for a project on the “Benefits of immersion for analysis of micro-CT datasets,” to help gather quantitative and qualitative insights into immersion benefits while exploring a complex scientific dataset like that of microscopic computed tomography data. The study consists of carrying out few tasks (answering few questions) related to two selected micro-CT datasets, which will be volume visualized on a state-of-the-art  spatially immersive stereo display system, in the Visionarium at 3050 Torgersen. The experiment lasts for about 1.5 hrs. This study has been IRB approved.  The researchers need 17 more participants who are selected on a first come first served basis. Participants must be more than 18 years old with no or minimal background in micro-CT imaging to participate in this experiment. The available time slots for participation are available here. Please email to Bireswar Laha at blaha@vt.edu, with your preferred time slot from the above page to sign up for your participation.

15. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF SITTING EFFECTS – 1st posting
You are invited to participate in a study aimed at testing muscle activities in a seated posture. Participants must be in no current or recent history (1 year) of physical disorders affecting the shoulder, knee, or lower back; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk); and be between ages 18-64. Participants will be required to perform several computer-based typing tasks in a laboratory setting. Each experiment session will last 2 to 3 hours and participants will be compensated $10/hour. For more information, please email to sjayvt@gmail.com.

16. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDY –  3rd posting
Do you like to drive in nice, clear weather? What about in thick fog, or heavy rain? Don’t you wish you just had a way to see through all that weather? VT researchers are testing a system for doing just this, and you could be one of the lucky people to experience it! Your task, should you choose to accept it, will be to test-drive a simulated "car of the future"! If you’re interested in participating, please contact Dan Tilden. Participants must have a driver’s license.

17. UPCOMING EVENTS:

AETNA STUDENT MEDICAL INSURANCE ENROLLMENT FAIR
Next week the Student Medical Insurance Office will have a temporary office set up in the main lobby of the GLC to assist graduate students with questions and enrollment for the 2011-2012 Aetna Student Health Insurance Plans. The stations will be staffed as follows:

• Tue, Aug 23: 8-12
• Wed, Aug 24: 1-5
• Thu, Aug 25: 8-12

RENTING? WHAT TO KNOW AND EXPECT
August 23, 5:30pm, GLC Room C
Learn about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant and how to maintain good credit while you are renting. Refreshments will be provided. Sponsored by New River Community Action.

HEALTH SERVICES AND INFORMATION SESSION
Wednesday, Aug 24, 5:00pm, GLC Room C
Representatives from Aetna Student Health and Schiffert Health Center will discuss how to enroll in the university-sponsored insurance, what the plan covers, and what services are offered at the health center. Free pizza will be served.

1. GRADUATE SCHOOL TO OPEN LATE TODAY
On Monday, Aug 8, the Graduate School will open at 1:00pm and close at 5:00pm. Normal business hours (8-5) will resume on Tuesday.

2. GSA ICE CREAM SOCIAL
Tuesday, Aug 9, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Get out of your sweltering lab or office and cool off with some free ice cream provided by the Graduate Student Assembly! Ice cream in bowls or cones and all of the toppings will be provided. Questions? Contact Amanda Shea at ashea04@vt.edu.

3. GLC CAFÉ MORE PILOT
Thursday, Aug 11, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room (back corridor, behind auditorium)
The experiment continues! Different location but still free coffee, tea and snacks. Faculty special guest/host yet to be decided, but someone will be there. Come to find out who the guest is, and have some coffee or tea (caffeine-free options will be available), with your fellow grads and faculty. Please let Monika Gibson know if you if you have any comments or suggestions by emailing to gibsonm@vt.edu.

4. MORE ORIENTATION VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
The Graduate School is still looking for graduate student volunteers (graduate ambassadors) to assist with international graduate student check-in (Aug 8-19), GTA training (Aug 15-16), the Welcome Center and New Graduate Student Orientation in the GLC (Aug 15-19). Roles include: check in and registration assistance, information and guidance to attendees; Welcome Center staffing; orientation crowd control; program set up and more. If you are available and interested in assisting with any of these events, please contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu, and include in your email your full name, department, contact information, and availability/preferred dates for participation. There will be a training session for grad ambassadors on Wednesday, Aug 10, 2-3pm in the GLC.  

5. STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN!
The 2011-2012 VT student health insurance plan provided by Aetna Student Health is now available for enrollment online at http://www.aetnastudenthealth.com. Graduate students (GA’s, GTA’s and GRA’s) eligible for the health insurance subsidy should choose a “subsidy plan” and should show a $0 balance when completing the enrollment process.  If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact the Student Medical Insurance Office at smi@vt.edu or call 540-231-6303. Aetna Student Health will be the new student health insurance carrier for the 2011-2012 academic year. Learn more about the insurance plans and rates at http://www.co.vt.edu/Risk/index.html.

6. PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRADUATE ASSISTANTS
It is not too late to enroll in payroll deduction of your comp fees if you are on a graduate assistantship! Graduate students on assistantship appointment may pay their comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction during the fall and spring semesters. To be eligible for this program, students must commit to paying the full-time comprehensive and capital fees through payroll deduction. Enrollment is managed through Hokie SPA and students must sign up _each_ semester in which they wish to take advantage of this opportunity. Visit http://www.graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/assistantships/index.html#compfees  for details.

6. GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING FOR 2011-12
Multicultural Alumni Programs (MAP) is seeking a full-time graduate assistant (20 hrs/wk) for the 2011-12 academic year. The position supports the director of MAP with public relations and marketing communications projects, drafting press releases and correspondence, designing and distributing marketing materials, preparing and giving presentations, proofing documents, and creating and maintaining social media pages. Also assist with various programming tasks. To apply, email to Laurie Brogdon, lbrogdon@vt.edu, by Aug 10. Include your resume and a brief discussion of the following questions in a Word document: your personal values and beliefs about (1) multiculturalism and diversity (2) learning about viewpoints that are different from yours and what your reaction has been to those viewpoints in the past (3) your experiences interacting with individuals whose backgrounds are different than yours and (4) your personal involvement in diversity activities.

7. 2012 GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM — BECOME A COMMITTEE MEMBER!
The GSA Research Symposium, to be held Mar 28, 2012, is an opportunity for graduate students to showcase their research. GSA invites you to become a member of the 2012 Graduate Research Symposium Committee. You may serve on one of the following subcommittees: website, sponsorship, judging, publicity, event organization, and keynote speaker. Interested in getting involved? Fill out this short survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1311005528958. Questions: Contact Alireza Salmanzadeh, Research Symposium Chair, alireza@vt.edu.

8. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDY – 2nd posting
Do you like to drive in nice, clear weather? What about in thick fog, or heavy rain? Don’t you wish you just had a way to see through all that weather? VT researchers are testing a system for doing just this, and you could be one of the lucky people to experience it! Your task, should you choose to accept it, will be to test-drive a simulated "car of the future"! If you’re interested in participating, please contact Dan Tilden at tilden@vt.edu. Participants must have a driver’s license.

9. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a study investigating muscle endurance for muscles of the arm, shoulder, and low back. The study consists of 1 session lasting approximately 2 hours. Participants will be compensated $15/hour. Requirements: age 18-25, no recent history of musculoskeletal or metabolic disorders, and not involved in any regular aerobic or resistance training. If interested, please complete a brief survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1310993098921.

10. UPCOMING EVENTS:

GSA WELCOME BACK BBQ!
Wednesday, Aug 17, 4:00-7:00pm, University Club Lawn
Start the semester off right with the Welcome Back BBQ sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly! Meet new and returning students while enjoying some yard games and music with free BBQ (vegetarian options available) from Log Cabin BBQ. We hope to see you there! Questions: Contact Amanda Shea at ashea04@vt.edu.

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME IN BLACKSBURG
Thursday, Aug 18, 4:30-6:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
New and returning students are welcome to connect with faculty, staff, and community resources that can help you succeed in graduate school and maintain a healthy life balance. Food and door prizes provided. Please sign up here https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1311877111107 if you plan to attend. Contact Dannette Beane at dannette@vt.edu with any questions.