Month: September 2012

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC  – MORE UPDATES!
All weekly services are back with additional counseling hours!

• Career advising (walk in, no appointment needed): Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling (walk in, no appointment needed): Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursdays, Reading Room
• Statistical consulting by LISA: Weekdays, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
• Writing Center support for grads: Thursdays 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room (additional hours are available in the Library)

2. SHORT STAT COURSE: DESIGNING SURVEYS
Tuesday, Sep 25, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC
Taught by Dr. Eric Vance, this short course helps students learn how to design a survey to strengthen research by applying statistical thinking to designing a survey and learning the five steps necessary for collecting data that will answer research questions. Topics include sample selection (including sample size calculations), questionnaire design to minimize errors and biases inherent in surveys, pilot testing and re-testing a survey, and implementation. Instructions on how to register and to learn more>>. Courses are held 5:00-7:00 pm. Remaining fall 2012 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Oct 2: Analyzing Surveys; in GLC
• Monday, Oct, 8: Introduction to R, Part I; in 3060 TORG
• Tuesday, Oct 9: Introduction to R, Part II; in 3060 TORG
• Monday & Tuesday, Oct 15 & 16: How to make plots to tell the story of your data. More information>>.

3. SELF-DEFENSE WORKSHOP – REGISTER NOW!
Wednesday, Sep 26, 12:00pm-1:30pm, GLC Room F
Learn about the basics of personal safety and crime prevention! Topics covered include how NOT to be a victim of crime, common misperceptions of crime, and basic self-defense techniques.  Space is limited so please register online. Questions? Contact Tara Frank. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Services Office and VTPD.

4. SUPPORT YOUR GRAD INTRAMURAL SOCCER TEAM!
Wednesday, Sep 26, 9:30pm, SRA field #3
Come out and support the graduate student soccer team as they compete in their upcoming games! For more information contact GLC Fellow, Emily Eskew.

5. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Sep 27, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the semester with free coffee and tea in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Bring your own mug if you can. 

6. FIRST BGSO SOCIAL
Friday, Sep 28, 6:00-10:00pm, Sharkey’s Restaurant in downtown Blacksburg
Mingle with members of the Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) as they prepare for a successful fall semester at Virginia Tech. If you have any questions, contact Larry at lacox@vt.edu. Follow BGSO on Facebook.

7. SUBMISSIONS ARE INVITED FOR GLC ART, PHOTO AND WRITING CONTEST -1st posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work, photography and written work by graduate students for display in the GLC during GLC Open House on Oct 19, 2012 and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art, photography, or written work) per graduate student. Submission deadline: Tuesday, Oct 16, 5:00pm. Learn more >>.

8. NEW BUSINESS HOURS IN GRAD STUDENT SERVICES
The Graduate School’s student services and advising area (120 GLC) will operate with new business hours starting Oct 1. On Wednesdays the service area will open at 9:30am and close at 6:00pm. This is a pilot program for the fall semester; at the end of fall we will evaluate the impact of this change and decide whether to continue with altered hours or return to an 8-5/M-F schedule. Send comments to grads@vt.edu.

9. INVITATION TO COMPLETE GOBBLERFEST SURVEY
The university would like to hear your feedback about Gobblerfest 2012, hoping that you had an enjoyable experience and learned about resources available to you on campus and in the surrounding community. 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 automatically be entered to win two (2) tickets to see Kendrick Lamar and Hoodie Allen in Burruss Auditorium in October! Please enter your name and email address at the end of the survey to be entered into the drawings. Access the survey here . The survey will be open until Sep 28 at 11:59pm. The 2012 Gobblerfest Planning Team thanks you for your time and welcomes you to the Hokie Neighborhood!

10. TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP) NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP) is now accepting applications.  The TFP provides monetary support in the form of a reimbursement to graduate students presenting at conferences. The GSA is offering a TFP Application Workshop on Friday, Oct 5, at 5:30pm in the Graduate Life Center, Room G.  The workshop is for students with questions about the application and funding process.  More information about the program, eligibility, application process, and FAQs may be found online; email gsatfpchair@gmail.com  if you have any questions.

11. PHI BETA DELTA INTL EDUCATION HONOR SOCIETY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
PBD recognizes the scholarly achievement of international students and scholars, U.S. students who have studied abroad, and faculty and staff who are involved in international activities and provides a network on each campus for faculty, staff, and international students involved in international endeavors. PBD is looking for new members who are willing to help expand program activities and increase PBD’s visibility on campus through work with special events, public relations, awarding of scholarships and recognitions, and membership development.  For more information contact Dr. Amer Fayad, 231-9668.  Applications online; deadline: 10/5. 

12. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY – 2nd posting
Iota Delta Rho, the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society is now accepting applications for membership. Applications and FAQs can be found on IDR’s website. Applications are accepted through Oct 3, 2012. If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Parece, the Vice-President of Membership.
 
13. SUBMIT YOUR EVENT REQUESTS AND IDEAS NOW! – 3rd posting
The GLC Fellows can help you get you what you want, but they need to know what it is first! The Fellows want to plan events and activities that will reach a wide variety of graduate students.  Please fill out this survey so that they can learn more about you and what you would like to see in the Graduate Life Center at Donaldson-Brown. The survey should only take a few minutes of your time.

14. NOMINATE A FACULTY MEMBER! – 3rd posting
The Graduate School is seeking faculty members for a series of lunch time discussions on various topics that may be of interest to graduate students.  Do you know a faculty member who might want to share their research with graduate students?  Or is there a topic area you would like to learn more about?  Let us know by completing the survey. Questions or comments?  Contact Tara Frank.

15. GRA POSITION OPENING – 1st posting
The Sustainable Agriculture and Natural Resource Collaborative Research Support Program (SANREM CRSP) is a USAID-funded project that conducts applied research to support the implementation of sustainable agriculture and natural resource management practices in developing countries. A GRA is sought to conduct research in soil and crop management for conservation agriculture farming systems, soil-based carbon sequestration, and climate change. Must have BS in agronomy, crop or soil science, chemistry, or a closely related field of study that has equipped the applicant with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position; excellent written and oral English skills. Learn more about the position>>.

16. CALL FOR GSA PROGRAM CHAIR APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
If you are looking to get involved on campus and gain valuable leadership experience, consider serving the graduate student community in a GSA Program Chair position! As Program Chair you will have the opportunity to be creative, work with a diverse group of students, and actively participate in an assortment of events. The GSA is currently accepting applications from pro-active students for Website Director and GSA Historian.  Please view the GSA website at http://www.gsa.graduateschool.edu for a full description of each position. Send a letter of interest, resume/CV, and goals for the academic year if interested.  Please direct any questions and send resumes to Elaine Mathis, VP of Programs. 

17. REVIEWERS NEEDED FOR PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL – 1st posting
The Public Knowledge Journal is seeking reviewers for the 2012-2013 year.  Articles are reviewed through a double-blind peer review process. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about the ins and outs of the academic publication world, and is a great way to add a line to your CV!  The Public Knowledge Journal is an interdisciplinary graduate student journal committed to the exchange of ideas and information about policy, issues, and research relevant to the public sphere.  More information about the journal>>.  Please contact Stefanie Georgakis at sgeorgakis@vt.edu by Oct 1 if you’re interested in being a peer reviewer for this academic year.

18. PIANIST NEEDED FOR GSAE WINE SOCIAL
The GSA is searching for a pianist to play for about an hour during the fall wine social on Friday, Oct 19, 5–8 pm. If you are able to play and interested in providing live entertainment for fellow graduate students please contact the GSA. The volunteer will receive free entry to the event, which includes wine and snacks.  A piano will be provided and you are not expected to play for the entire time.  It is preferred that any interested volunteers have a piano available for an audition before obtaining the job.  Please direct any questions to Cory Brozina, Events Chair.   

19. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO FORM GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM SUB-COMMITTEES
Monday, Oct 1, 5:00-6:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
The GSA is looking for sub-committee members to help plan the Research Symposium on Mar 27, 2013. The meeting on Oct 1 is dedicated to forming sub-committees for judging, sponsorship, the keynote speaker, and event promotion. This is a great way to gain event-planning experience, boost your resume, and be involved in one of the GSA’s largest events of the year. For more information contact George (gpb2c@vt.edu) or Diana (dwilson4@vt.edu), co-chairs of the Research Symposium.

20. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STORYTELLING ACTIVITY – 1st posting
Researchers are looking for children aged 8-10 to participate in a study on enactment-based creative storytelling.  The child will be asked to enact and create stories using gestures and physical objects. The storytelling session will last around an hour, and will take place on the VT campus conducted by researchers from the VT Center for Human-Computer Interaction. Researchers are also willing to keep your child for longer should it be more convenient for you.  Transport arrangements can also be made if necessary. Please contact Sharon at sharilyn@vt.edu or 540-998 6488 if interested in participating.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR READING PRACTICES STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a study investigating reading practices on different media (i.e., paper, computer, iPad). This study will take around 3 hours to complete and participants will be compensated $10/hour (total $30). Requirements: Native English speaker, age 35-80. If interested, please contact Kyunghui Oh at khoh@vt.edu for further details.

22. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR LOAD-HOLDING STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a study about the ergonomic research on manufacturing tasks.  The study consists of two sessions of about 1-2 and 3-4 hours respectively.  Requirements: male or female with no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders within the age range of 18-30 years.  Participants will be compensated $10/hr.  If interested, please contact Chelsea Susbilla at csus218@vt.edu for further details.

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON HISTORIC BATTLEFIELDS – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a survey on the public education and perception of historic battlefields among the VT community. As a potential participant, your opinions may be important. Your involvement is entirely voluntary and there are no known or anticipated risks by participating in this study. The survey should take less than 20 minutes and you will receive $5.00 as compensation. If you have any questions about this study or would like additional information, please contact Shamsul Abu Bakar (shunown1@vt.edu/540-449-9174). This study has been approved by the VT-IRB.

24. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY EXPLORING PURCHASING BEHAVIORS – 3rd posting
A VT graduate student in industrial design is conducting a survey to gather feedback on sustainable purchasing behaviors. The survey takes no more than 10 minutes. All responses will be kept anonymous. If you are interested in participating, please open the survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1346374534747. Contact Yushi by email at yushi@vt.edu with any questions.

25. UPCOMING EVENTS:

CXWORX FITNESS CLASSES FOR GRADS
Monday, Oct 1, 9:00-10:00am, GLC Multipurpose Room
If you are looking for a short, sharp workout that will inspire you to get to the next level of fitness, CXWORX might be for you! Based on cutting-edge scientific research, this brand new 30-minute format combines the best of personal training with the energy of a group fitness class. Choreographed routines and chart-topping music will bring you back for more: CXWORX hones in on the torso and sling muscles that connect your upper body to your lower body. It’s ideal for tightening your tummy and butt, while also improving functional strength and assisting in injury prevention. Bring a towel and some water and join personal trainer, Emily, for the following dates in the GLC Multipurpose room to test out CXWORX: Monday, Oct 1, 9:00-10:00am; Thursday, Nov 1, 9:00-10:00am; Thursday, Dec 13, 6:00-7:00pm, all in the GLC Multipurpose Room. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows; contact Emily Eskew at eceskew@vt.edu for more details.

CREATING A CULTURE OF ASSESSMENT IN THE DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS
Monday, Oct 1, 12-1:30pm, GLC Room C
This fall, the Office of Assessment & Evaluation will host a series of brown bag interactive chats on topics and issues related to the design, promotion, and facilitation of a culture of continuous improvement at the university. These chats are intended to provide the broader education community with ideas and practices that encourage innovation in all areas that affect student learning at Virginia Tech.  This session will focus on assessment in student affairs and is presented by Martha Glass, Associate Director of Administration for Assessment, Division of Student Affairs.  Please register at http://www.cideronline.org/events/events2.cfm

GET INVOLVED WITH THE GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM!
The Graduate Honor System is currently recruiting student and faculty volunteers to serve as panelists who hear and decide on cases. Interested individuals need to attend any one of the one-hour training sessions, and then will be able to serve on cases as their schedules allow. Training schedule:

• Monday, Oct 1, 4:00pm, GLC videoconference room
• Wednesday, Oct 3, 2:00pm. GLC Room D
• Friday, Oct 5, 11:00am, GLC videoconference room

If you are interested, please email ghs@vt.edu.

VT HOSTS ‘DEMOCRACY NOW!’
Monday, Oct 1, 7:00pm, McBryde Hall 100
Democracy Now! is an independent, non-profit news program broadcast on TV, radio, and the internet. As part of their 100-city tour between the Democratic and Republican National Conventions and election day, Democracy Now! will be hosted at Virginia Tech. Award-winning journalist and Democracy Now! host Amy Goodman will be hosting the event with a focus on the issues of violence. Come and enjoy this rare opportunity presented for the Virginia Tech community. This message is posted on behalf of graduate student George Batten. 

GSA CUPCAKES WITH THE DEAN
Tuesday, Oct 2, 12:00–1:30pm, Graduate School Lobby
Please join the Grad School Dean Dr. Karen DePauw, GSA representatives and fellow graduate students for cupcakes and discussion. This is an exciting opportunity to meet Dean DePauw and bring up any questions or concerns you might have and mingle with fellow graduate students while enjoying delicious cupcakes.  Discussion will take place in the.  We hope to see you there!  Please direct any questions to Elaine Mathis, VP of Programs (efm28@vt.edu).

PAYCHECK TAXES: WHAT IS FIT/SIT & WHY DO YOU HAVE TO PAY THEM?
Wednesday, Oct 3, 3:00pm, GLC Room G
This workshop will provide an in-depth explanation of the taxes that are required to be withheld from your VT paycheck and how the taxes are calculated. If you have questions, please contact international tax specialist, Janet Kunz, at jakunz@vt.edu.

THE DEBATES: YOU DECIDE
October 3, 16 and 22, 9:00-10:30pm, GLC TV Lounge
Watch the nationally televised presidential debates with your fellow graduate students in the GLC TV lounge and engage in dialogue about foreign & domestic policies, campaigns and issues that matter to you and your vote for 2012 presidential elections. Sponsored by GLC Fellows. Contact Emily Eskew at eceskew@vt.edu if you have any questions.

SAFE ZONE 101 TRANING FOR GRADS – REGISTER NOW!
Friday, Oct 5, 1:00pm-3:00pm, GLC Room B
Interested in becoming Safe-Zone certified? This session is for individuals interested in learning more about the LGBTQ community. Topics addressed in the first training session include: common LGBTQ terms, sexual orientation vs. sexual identity, the coming out process, experiences of LGBTQ individuals, and how you can be a Safe-Zone ally. Please register here.  Questions?  Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu.  Sponsored by Multicultural Programs and Services and the Graduate Student Services Office.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC  – UPDATED!
All weekly services are back!

• Career advising (walk in, no appointment needed): Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling (walk in, no appointment needed): Thursdays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursdays, Reading Room
• Statistical consulting by LISA: Weekdays, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
• Writing Center support for grads: Thursdays 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room (additional hours are available in the Library)

2. USING JMP TO DESIGN EXPERIMENTS AND ANALYZE THE RESULTS
Monday and Tuesday, Sep 17 & 18, 5:00-7:00pm
The classical design (factorial design, response surface design, etc.) may fail to meet requirements due to an irregular design space, involving categorical variables, a nonstandard model and unusual requirements of sample size. This class will introduce how to use JMP to tackle these design challenges within a unified framework and make best use of your design budget. The topics covered tentatively in this course include: computer generated design, augmenting an existing design and design from a candidate set. Follow LISA on Facebook or Twitter  to be the first to know about LISA events! For more information, please visit the LISA website: www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

3. GRAD SCHOOL SERVICE/ADVISING AREA CLOSED FOR WALK-INS
Tuesday, Sep 18, 8:00am-5:00pm, effecting GLC offices 110-120
The Graduate School student services and advising area (120 GLC) will undergo some changes on Tuesday, Sep 18, requiring that we close the service area to walk-in traffic. We ask that you try to avoid visiting the Graduate School on this day unless you need urgent in-person assistance. Email and phone assistance will be uninterrupted and accommodations will be made to see students in the Graduate School lobby as needed. Please stop by to see us after Tuesday to see our new, more student-friendly layout!

4. BLACK GRADUATE STUDENT ORGANIZATION (BGSO) FIRST GENERAL MEETING
Wednesday, Sep 19, 6-7:30pm
This meeting will be used to determine the events and programming done by BGSO for the academic year.  If there is something that you would like to see planned, please come out and let BGSO know at this meeting.  For those that can’t attend the meeting due to prior engagements, you can email your ideas before the meeting to lacox@vt.edu with the subject “BGSO PROGRAM IDEAS.” Follow BGSO on Facebook.

5. LECTURE: WHY UNIVERSITIES CAN’T DO WITHOUT GOD
Wednesday, Sep 19, 7:30pm, 3100 Torgersen Hall
Reformed Presbyterian Missions is sponsoring this lecture for graduate students and faculty entitled "Why Universities Can’t Do Without God:  The theistic foundations of modern education and research."  Dr. James Anderson will be discussing why education and scholarship must be built on the prior knowledge of God, showing the necessity of a theistic worldview to science, research, education, and ethics.  Before earning his PhD in Philosophical Theology, Dr. Anderson earned a PhD in Computer Simulation from the University of Edinburgh and worked in research in that field for 10 years.  He is currently a professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC.  The lecture is free and open to the public.

6. WRITING CENTER SUPPORT IN THE GLC AND BEYOND
Thursdays, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
Walk-in without an appointment to receive assistance with your academic writing, or contact grad student Josh Thompson for an appointment: jdt225@vt.edu. Additional writing support is available through the VT Writing Center, located in the Learning Commons on the 2nd floor of Newman Library. Hours of Operation: Sun (Drop-In Service) 8pm-10pm; Mon-Wed 9am-10pm; Thu-Fri 9am-5pm; call 231-5436 for an appointment.

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Sep 20, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the semester with free coffee and tea in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Bring your own mug if you can. 

8. UNDERSTANDING PAYMENTS AND TAXES IN THE U.S.
Thursday, Sep 20, 4:00pm, GLC Room C
An international tax specialist will cover the types of income, work restrictions, federal and state taxes, payroll forms, and more at this orientation event for international students. If you have questions, please contact Janet Kunz at jakunz@vt.edu.

9. GRADUATE SCHOLARS SOCIETY
Thursday, Sep 20, 4pm, GLC Room G
The Graduate Scholars Society invites you to attend the Fall 2012 information meeting.  The GSS believes being a graduate student should also be about scholarship, and scholars can apply their reason, training, and perspective to all issues. GSS is essentially a forum for graduate students from any department and any origin to examine the broader issues effecting our lives and times. At this session, you will hear more about the topics proposed for discussion this semester, and have an opportunity to join a group. Each group is limited in size and meets based on its own needs (most in the evenings, some off campus, some on).   Topics include: 1. The Financial Future of America – election platforms, domestic policy—making sense of the proposed financial strategies; 2. Current Events in Global Economics – should Greece stay in the Euro? What are the implications of China’s currency strategies?; 3. Future of Robotics – in 50 years, what should the world look like? Will the top 5 teachers of our generation be immortalized in robots for schools? Will the elderly have live-in care? Research robotics happens at Tech, learn what’s possible, and decide what direction you think research should take. For more information, email Gold Darr at grd0001@gmail.com.

10. GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY FIRST FALL DELEGATE MEETING
Thursday, Sep 20, 5:30-7pm, GLC Multipurpose Room.
The GSA Executive board invites you to attend the first delegate meeting for the semester. This will give you a chance to meet with the graduate students who serve as representatives for their respective academic departments, who are also liaisons to graduate students regarding graduate student issues/concerns, activities, etc. offered by the GSA. If you are interested in learning more about the delegate body and how GSA functions, please join other grads at this meeting and fill out this survey so we can have a better estimate for food and drinks. For more information please contact Shaimaa Abdallah, GSA President, at shaimaa@vt.edu.

11. VT STUDENTS FOR OBAMA MEETING
Thursday, Sep 20, 6:30-7:30pm, Squires Student Center Room 341
Want to help re-elect President Obama? Learn how you can help volunteer in order to ensure President Obama’s re-election at this meeting.

12. SAUDI NATIONAL DAY
Friday, Sep 21, 10am-4pm, Squires Student Center Williamsburg Room
Celebrate Saudi National Day with the Saudi Club at Virginia Tech! Take a tour of Saudi Arabia – start with the offering of Arabic coffee and dates and continue to know more about the country and its customs, traditions and people. Explore all parts of the country, tradition, education, tourism, and take photos in traditional clothes and meet students from Saudi Arabia. Gifts, brochures, magazines, your name written in Arabic, T-Shirts, wristbands and souvenirs will be giving to visitors as they come to explore and share with us this special day. It is very special for the Saudi Club at VT to share this day with friends, colleagues, faculty, staff and the people of Blacksburg.

13. TEAMS INVITED FOR LIBRARY’S HOKIE HIJINX SCAVENGER HUNT – 2nd posting
University Libraries is seeking teams to participate in the library’s Hokie Hijinx scavenger hunt, which will be held September 26-29. The top three teams will win prize bags to distribute among their members. Team leaders can sign up and check the rules.

14. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY – 1st posting
Iota Delta Rho, the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society is now accepting applications for membership. Applications and FAQs can be found on IDR’s website at:  http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application/. Applications are accepted through Oct 3, 2012. If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Parece, the Vice-President of Membership, tammyep@vt.edu.
 
15. SUBMIT YOUR EVENT REQUESTS AND IDEAS NOW! – 2nd posting
The GLC Fellows can help you get you what you want, but they need to know what it is first! The Fellows want to plan events and activities that will reach a wide variety of graduate students.  Please fill out the survey below so that they can learn more about you and what you would like to see in the Graduate Life Center at Donaldson-Brown: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1347293454435. The survey should only take a few minutes of your time.

16. NOMINATE A FACULTY MEMBER! – 3rd posting
The Graduate School is seeking faculty members for a series of lunch time discussions on various topics that may be of interest to graduate students.  Do you know a faculty member who might want to share their research with graduate students?  Or is there a topic area you would like to learn more about?  Let us know by completing the survey. Questions or comments?  Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu.

17. VOLUNTEERS FOR GSA GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL FAIR NEEDED
GSA hosts the Graduate and Professional School Fair for undergraduates on Monday, September 24 from 10:30am to 2:00pm in Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center. There will be over 100 graduate representatives from universities across the nation available to provide information about an advance degree. WE NEED YOUR HELP and many volunteers to make this event a success! Please consider volunteering your time, 1-2 hours, for GSA’s BIGGEST FUNDRAISER! Please fill out this volunteer form. For any questions please contact Kelsey Brunton, GPSF Program Chair and Coordinator at vtgpsf@gmail.com.

18. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR READING PRACTICES STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a study investigating reading practices on different media (i.e., paper, computer, iPad). This study will take around 3 hours to complete and participants will be compensated $10/hour (total $30). Requirements: Native English speaker, age 35-80. If interested, please contact Kyunghui Oh at khoh@vt.edu for further details.

19. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR LOAD-HOLDING STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a study about the ergonomic research on manufacturing tasks.  The study consists of two sessions of about 1-2 and 3-4 hours respectively.  Requirements: male or female with no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders within the age range of 18-30 years.  Participants will be compensated $10/hr.  If interested, please contact Chelsea Susbilla at csus218@vt.edu for further details.

20. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON HISTORIC BATTLEFIELDS – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a survey on the public education and perception of historic battlefields among the VT community. As a potential participant, your opinions may be important. Your involvement is entirely voluntary and there are no known or anticipated risks by participating in this study. The survey should take less than 20 minutes and you will receive $5.00 as compensation. If you have any questions about this study or would like additional information, please contact Shamsul Abu Bakar (shunown1@vt.edu/540-449-9174). This study has been approved by the VT-IRB.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY EXPLORING PURCHASING BEHAVIORS – 2nd posting
A VT graduate student in industrial design is conducting a survey to gather feedback on sustainable purchasing behaviors. The survey takes no more than 10 minutes. All responses will be kept anonymous. If you are interested in participating, please open the survey at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1346374534747. Contact Yushi by email at yushi@vt.edu with any questions.

22. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE/GAIT STUDY – 3rd posting
Subjects are needed for a study investigating balance and gait in overweight individuals. The study will take place in the Kevin P Granata Biomechanics Lab in 208 Norris Hall. The study will take 1-1.5 hours to complete, and subjects will be paid $20 for their participation. If you are interested, please email your name, age, height, weight and days/times during the week you are available to participate to: biomechanics.esm@gmail.com Overweight individuals are especially needed.

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR ANKLE INSTABILITY STUDY – 3rd posting
Healthy, young adults WITH a history of ankle sprains are sought for participation in a research project on ankle sprain risk factors.  The study will require participants to complete ankle stiffness and joint position sense evaluations under fatigued and braced conditions.  All procedures have been approved by the VT IRB. Participants must be 18-35 years old, active (2-3 times/week), have no existing joint problems or chronic joint pain, and must not be participating in physical rehab or regularly using ankle tape or bracing. Testing requires 3 sessions (about 2–2.5 hrs/session). Participants will be compensated for their time at a rate of $10/hr.  Contact Courtney Haynes by email at chaynes7@vt.edu or call at 724-272-8574.

24. THE VT LIBRARY SEEKS YOUR FEEDBACK ON GRAD COURSE – 3rd posting
The VT library seeks your feedback on the Library research skills graduate course (Grad 5124) it offers. Your feedback will be useful in aligning the course to better meet the needs of graduate students. Provide feedback >>(takes less than 5 minutes): . If you have any questions, contact Tracy Hall, Instructional Services Librarian (tracy72@vt.edu, 540-231-3067). To learn more about the Grad 5124 course, visit: http://www.lib.vt.edu/instruct/grad5124.html.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
All weekly services are back!

• Career advising (walk in, no appointment needed): Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling (walk in, no appointment needed): Thursdays 1:00-5:00pm
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
• Statistical consulting by LISA: Weekdays, 1:00-3:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
• Writing Center support for grads: Thursdays 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room (additional hours are available in the Library)

2. THE LYRIC PRESENTS COMEDY FOR A CAUSE
Tuesday, Sep 11, 6:30pm meet in GLC Lobby; show starts 7:00pm at The Lyric
GLC Fellow Emily Eskew invites you to participate in a free National Recovery Month Event at The Lyric! Meet in the GLC lobby at 6:30pm and walk with fellow grads to the show. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Contact Emily C. Eskew, 540-446-6280,  with any questions.

3. HISTORICAL TOWN OF BLACKSBURG TOUR
Wednesday, Sep 12, 1:00pm, Meet in GLC Lobby
Join your fellow graduate students on a walking tour of Blacksburg and explore the original town limits and some of the oldest structures in Blacksburg.
Sign-up for a tour here.

4. CAREER FAIR PREPARATION FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
Wednesday, Sep 12, 5:30pm, GLC Room G
There are several large job fairs on campus this spring and employers ARE interested in talking with graduate students—especially at the master’s level. Do you know how to present yourself to an employer at a job fair? What to ask? What they’ll expect? Come to this seminar to learn a few tricks of this trade! Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.

5. INTERVARSITY GRADUATE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Wednesdays, 6:30pm, GLC Room C
InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship meets weekly for a free dinner and interactive Bible discussion. All graduate students are welcome! 

6. ‘CROSSING BORDERS’ FILM AND DISCUSSION
Wednesday, Sep 12, 7:00pm, Squires Student Center, Colonial Hall
‘Crossing Borders’ is a 70-min documentary that follows four Moroccan and four American university students as they travel together through Morocco and, in the process of discovering ‘The Other,’ discover themselves. The relationships formed through shared experiences contrast sharply with the media-shaped views Americans and Muslims have of each other. Humor, honesty, and a willingness to be challenged all bring individuals closer to each other and the relationships that develop disarm hidden stereotypes. A short Q&A session moderated by Dr. Guru Ghosh, associate vp for international affairs, will follow the screening. This event is sponsored by the Language and Culture Institute, the Education Abroad Office, the Peace Corps, and the Phi Beta Delta international honor society, and is posted on behalf of grad student and Peace Corps recruiter Chris Hickey.

7. WRITING CENTER SUPPORT IN THE GLC AND BEYOND
Thursdays, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Videoconference Room
Walk-in without an appointment to receive assistance with your academic writing, or contact grad student Josh Thompson for an appointment: jdt225@vt.edu. Additional writing support is available through the VT Writing Center, located in the Learning Commons on the 2nd floor of Newman Library. Hours of Operation: Sun (Drop-In Service) 8pm-10pm; Mon-Wed 9am-10pm; Thu-Fri 9am-5pm; call 231-5436 for an appointment.

8. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Sep 6, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the semester with free coffee and tea in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Bring your own mug if you can. 

9. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE CHILDCARE ON THU NIGHTS
Thursdays, beginning Sep 6, 6:00pm, VT Women’s Center 206 Washington Street    
A free weekly drop-in evening child care program for kids. Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12. No need to pre-register. Childcare provided by the women of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester with the exception of home football games and when classes are not in session. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu.

10. TOUR THE SMART ROAD!
Friday, Sep 14, 12:30-2:00pm
Interested in learning about the Smart Road at Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute (VTTI)? Take a tour! The Smart Road is a 2.2-mile highway used for transportation research. Participants will travel the Smart Road and learn more about the cutting edge research being conducted.  Space is limited so please sign up now. Your attendance will be confirmed via email along with details about a meeting location.  Questions?  Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Services Office.

11. GSA WELCOME BACK HAPPY HOUR
Friday, Sep 14, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Lounge
GSA is hosting their annual “Welcome Back Happy Hour” in the GLC Lounge. The cost is $5.00 per person (cash) at the door for 4 tastings, 1 beer, and snacks ($2 for snacks only). All graduate students, post-docs, and faculty members are invited to come and enjoy a great start to the semester! Please direct any questions to Cory Brozina (sbrozina@vt.edu).

12. TEAMS INVITED FOR LIBRARY’S HOKIE HIJINX SCAVENGER HUNT
University Libraries is (are?) seeking teams to participate in the library’s Hokie Hijinx scavenger hunt, which will be held September 26-29. The top three teams will win prize bags to distribute among their members. Team leaders can sign up and check the rules here.

13. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY – 1st posting
Iota Delta Rho, the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society is now accepting applications for membership. Applications and FAQs can be found on IDR’s website at:  http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application/. Applications are accepted through Oct 3, 2012. If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Parece, the Vice-President of Membership, tammyep@vt.edu.
 
14. SUBMIT YOUR EVENT REQUESTS AND IDEAS NOW!
The GLC Fellows can help you get you what you want, but they need to know what it is first! The Fellows want to plan events and activities that will reach a wide variety of graduate students.  Please fill out this survey so that they can learn more about you and what you would like to see in the Graduate Life Center at Donaldson-Brown. The survey should only take a few minutes of your time.

15. WALK-IN STATISTICAL CONSULTING THROUGH LISA
LISA, the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis, offers walk-in consulting Mon-Fri 1:00-3:00 pm in the GLC Video Conference Room. In Fall 2012, additional walk-in consulting hours will be available in the following locations:
– Monday & Wednesday from 3-5 pm in PORT (Torgersen/Newman Library bridge)
– Tuesday from 9:30-11:30 am in 1028 Pamplin Hall
– Thursday from 9:30-11:30 am in ICTAS Cafe X
Maps and additional information are available on LISA’s website. During walk-in hours a statistical consultant is available to answer quick questions or to help with research projects requiring less than 30 minutes of assistance. For more in-depth questions or longer projects, complete the LISA Collaboration Request Form at www.lisa.stat.vt.edu and a team of statistical collaborators will be assigned to work with you. Note: LISA does not assist with class projects or homework. For more information about walk-in consulting and LISA’s other services, please visit www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

16. 2012-13 UNIVERSITY-SPONSORED HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN – SIGN UP BY OCT 1
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 https://www.aetnastudenthealth.com/stu_conn/student_connection.aspx?groupID=474968.

17. NOMINATE A FACULTY MEMBER! – 2nd posting
The Graduate School is seeking faculty members for a series of lunch time discussions on various topics that may be of interest to graduate students.  Do you know a faculty member who might want to share their research with graduate students?  Or is there a topic area you would like to learn more about?  Let us know by completing this survey. Questions or comments?  Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu.

18. PART-TIME WAGE POSITION IN CAMPUS ALCOHOL ABUSE PREVENTION CENTER
Graduate students will be considered. Selected applicant will be primarily working with IMPACT Peer Education and Prevention Team and getting some new initiatives underway. Must be available for Peer Education meeting on Wednesday evening 8:00-9:15pm. There are regular night and weekend hours. For more information look up posting number 0122279 at https://listings.jobs.vt.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/Welcome_css.jsp or contact Steve Clark at sclarke@vt.edu.

19. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR LOAD-HOLDING STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a study about the ergonomic research on manufacturing tasks.  The study consists of two sessions of about 1-2 and 3-4 hours respectively.  Requirements: male or female with no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders within the age range of 18-30 years.  Participants will be compensated $10/hr.  If interested, please contact Chelsea Susbilla at csus218@vt.edu for further details.

20. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON HISTORIC BATTLEFIELDS – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a survey on the public education and perception of historic battlefields among the VT community. As a potential participant, your opinions may be important. Your involvement is entirely voluntary and there are no known or anticipated risks by participating in this study. The survey should take less than 20 minutes and you will receive $5.00 as compensation. If you have any questions about this study or would like additional information, please contact Shamsul Abu Bakar (shunown1@vt.edu/540-449-9174). This study has been approved by the VT-IRB.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SURVEY EXPLORING PURCHASING BEHAVIORS – 1st posting
A VT graduate student in industrial design is conducting a survey to gather feedback on sustainable purchasing behaviors. The survey takes no more than 10 minutes. All responses will be kept anonymous. If you are interested in participating, please open the survey. Contact Yushi by email at yushi@vt.edu with any questions.

22. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR BALANCE/GAIT STUDY – 2nd posting
Subjects are needed for a study investigating balance and gait in overweight individuals. The study will take place in the Kevin P Granata Biomechanics Lab in 208 Norris Hall. The study will take 1-1.5 hours to complete, and subjects will be paid $20 for their participation. If you are interested, please email your name, age, height, weight and days/times during the week you are available to participate to: biomechanics.esm@gmail.com Overweight individuals are especially needed.

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR ANKLE INSTABILITY STUDY – 2nd posting
Healthy, young adults WITH a history of ankle sprains are sought for participation in a research project on ankle sprain risk factors.  The study will require participants to complete ankle stiffness and joint position sense evaluations under fatigued and braced conditions.  All procedures have been approved by the VT IRB. Participants must be 18-35 years old, active (2-3 times/week), have no existing joint problems or chronic joint pain, and must not be participating in physical rehab or regularly using ankle tape or bracing. Testing requires 3 sessions (about 2–2.5 hrs/session). Participants will be compensated for their time at a rate of $10/hr.  Contact Courtney Haynes by email at chaynes7@vt.edu or call at 724-272-8574.

24. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GSA WELCOME BACK HAPPY HOUR
Friday, Sep 14, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Lounge
The GSA is looking for volunteers to help with their annual “Welcome Back Happy Hour”.  Tasks will include setting-up, serving beer and food, and cleaning up.  Volunteers must be 21 years of age or older.  Please contact Elaine Mathis (efm28@vt.edu) if you are interested in helping with one of the first GSA events of the semester.

25. THE VT LIBRARY SEEKS YOUR FEEDBACK ON GRAD COURSE – 3rd posting
The VT library seeks your feedback on the Library research skills graduate course  (Grad 5124) it offers. Your feedback will be useful in aligning the course to better meet the needs of graduate students. Click here to provide feedback (takes less than 5 minutes): https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5hTNHu1S37qfpaJ. If you have any questions, contact Tracy Hall, Instructional Services Librarian (tracy72@vt.edu, 540-231-3067). Learn more about the Grad 5124 course>>

26. PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL SEEKS SUBMISSIONS – 3rd posting
Public Knowledge Journal (PKJ), an open-access peer-reviewed online journal hosted at VT, seeks articles, book reviews, essays, interviews, and multimedia submissions for Volume 4, Issue 2, on Interventions. Read the complete CFP (Call For Papers) at http://pkjournal.org/?page_id=1826. This graduate-student-managed journal is dedicated to the understanding of the journal process for new scholars, and thus only accepts submissions from current graduate students or of research conducted while enrolled as a graduate student. Some questions to consider: How does the response to the financial crisis shape or preclude social intervention? What kinds of (non)intervention would be the most socially useful? Who should be responsible for what kinds of financial interventions? What role should local authorities, state government, international bodies, corporations, and NGOs play in global environmental interventions? Who has a voice in the 21st century foodscape? How do global economic interests influence individual food choices? What is the most feasible mode of food production? Are such methods desirable? According to whom?
 
27. MALE PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR METABOLISM STUDY – 3rd posting
Volunteers are needed for a study examining how diet influences muscle metabolism. Must be: male between the ages of 18-40; not currently taking any medications; non-smoker; without any major medical problems; willing to eat a high fat diet for 4 weeks. Participants will receive extensive health information and may receive up to $200 to compensate for time.  If you meet the above requirements and are interested in participating in this research study, please contact John Pownall at the Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory at Virginia Tech by email: heartlab@vt.edu  or call the Lab at (540) 231-8299.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

BOV GRAD LUNCHEON WITH PRESIDENT, PROVOST, & GRADUATE DEAN
Monday, Sep 17, 12:00-1:30pm, The Inn at Virginia Tech
Attend the first graduate luncheon of the semester with President Steger, Provost McNamee, and Vice President and Dean for graduate education Dr. Karen DePauw at the Inn at Virginia Tech. Spaces are limited. If you are interested in attending, please register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1345775917324. Graduate students selected to attend will be contacted by Sep 7.  Contact Robyn Jones, Graduate Representative to the BOV at bovgradrep@vt.edu with any questions.

GRAD SCHOOL SERVICE/ADVISING AREA REFURBISHING
Tuesday, Sep 18, 8:00am-5:00pm, effecting GLC offices 110-120
The Graduate School student services and advising area (120 GLC) will undergo some changes next week, requiring that we close the service area to walk-in traffic on Tuesday, Sep 18. Email and phone assistance will be uninterrupted and accommodations will be made to see students in the Graduate School lobby as needed. However, we ask that you try to avoid visiting the Graduate School on this day unless you need urgent in-person assistance.

UNDERSTANDING PAYMENTS AND TAXES IN THE U.S.
Thursday, Sep 20, 4:00pm, GLC Room C
An international tax specialist will cover the types of income, work restrictions, federal and state taxes, payroll forms, and more at this orientation event for international students. If you have questions, please contact Janet Kunz.