Month: October 2012

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC 

• 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. GRADUATE PUMPKIN CARVING PARTY
Monday, Oct 29, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GLC Fellows and the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) are sponsoring this Pumpkin Carving Party. Pumpkins, carving tools, and food will be provided. You are responsible for bringing the fun! Prizes will be given in several “best pumpkin” categories at 7pm.  This event is open to all graduate students and their children as well. Please contact Andrae Hash at hashas@vt.edu if you have any questions. Please complete the survey registration to indicate that you are coming.

3. AEL LAST LECTURE SPEAKER: DR. E. SCOTT GELLER
Monday, Oct 29, 7:30pm, GLC Room G
Alpha Lambda Epsilon (AEL), a graduate honor society, invites you to its first Last Lecture Speaker for 2012/2013 school year: Dr. E. Scott Geller will present his topic "Actively Caring for People:  A worldwide movement for safety, security, and global peace."  Refreshments will be provided.  Please direct any questions to Tammy Parece at tammyep@vt.edu.

4. SUPPORT YOUR GLC VOLLEBALL TEAM!
Monday, Oct 29, 7:30pm War Memorial Gym 141
Come out and support the GLC volleyball team at their first game. Interested in joining the team? Contact Mitchell Ostrout, grad student and captain of a grad Co.Rec team at ostroutm@vt.edu.

5. WORK-LIFE INTEGRATION WEBINAR
Tuesday, Oct 30, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
With the pressures of technology, globalization, and productivity, the typical workday has encroached upon what used to be considered home life. It’s harder than ever to maintain boundaries. Explore ways to identify the right balance between work and home, allowing you to contribute fully to both. We’ll share practices to manage it all and also how to communicate expectations to those around you. Hosted by the Central Virginia Women Transportation Seminar. For more information, please contact Renee LoSapio at rlosapio@vt.edu. Guest speakers:  Jennifer Pope, Vice President, Member Interactions, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans; Shannan Gardner, Partner at Moss Adams LLP.

6. THE SOCIOLOGY OF HAWAIIAN GHOST STORIES
Tuesday, Oct 30, 7:00pm, 216 Randolph
In Hawaiian culture, ghost stories are commonly used to create ethnic solidarity and to bring communities together. Hawaiians have great respect for the land, and spirits that reside within it. This talk will focus on the cultural-social effects of ghosts. Graduate student Leighton Vila will be reading actual ghost stories, as documented by the University of Hawaii Folklore Project and other academic texts, and explaining the historical, cultural, and sociological ways that these stories affect Hawaiian culture. For more information contact Leighton Vila at vila@vt.edu.

7. ETD WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Oct 31, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room F
The Graduate School will be holding two ETD workshops for those students who need help in developing their ETD’s or those who would like their ETD looked over for minor errors before submission. There will be a list of frequently found errors, as well as formatting templates and copyright help. Whether you are just starting to develop your ETD or are ready to submit it for review, this workshop is for you!

8. LGBTQ-HISTORY SAFE ZONE SESSION
Thursday, Nov 1, 2:00-4:00pm, GLC Room G
In the world today we hear about people coming out or being outed; we hear the debate about gay marriage, we hear politicians pander to different groups using LGBT Rights as a polarizing strategy; but none of this is new. This session will look at the history of the LGBT community especially in Europe and the US hitting important moments in the struggle for equal rights; how homosexuality by definition has changed and how it is twisted; key moments that transgender and intersex individuals have faced. Hopefully you will walk away with a better understanding of how LGBT individuals have impacted history then and now. This workshop counts towards Safe Zone certification.  Space is limited.  Sign up here.  Questions? Contact Tara at tara@vt.edu.

9. GLC CAFÉ: PEANUT EDITION
Thursday, Nov 1, 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. This week’s special (in addition to, not instead of the usual cookies): Virginia peanuts in various forms, probably as peanut brittle and dry-roasted variations. Bring your own mug if you can. 

10. GRADUATE COSMIC BOWLING NIGHT
Friday, Nov 2, 9pm-1am, BreakZone in Squires Student Center
Join your fellow graduate students for a night of friendly competition with COSMIC bowling at the BreakZone! Bowl as much as you want, for as long as you want, at no cost to you. All graduate students are welcome! Hosted by the GLC Fellows. If you have any questions, please email Marielly Ruiz at mzruiz@vt.edu.

11. AEL MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED – 2nd posting
Fall 2012 Application Deadline: Nov 19 by 5 p.m. Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) Graduate Honor Society, the only academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students, is now accepting applications for new members. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Please apply by Nov 19 through http://www.ael.graduateschool.vt.edu/application-process/. For more information please visit the AEL website or contact Shernita Lee, President of AEL, at shernita@vt.edu with any questions.

12. REGISTER FOR SECOND ANNUAL INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – 2nd posting
Registration is now open for the Second Annual Interdisciplinary Research Symposium, held at Virginia Tech on Nov 2nd, 9am-3pm,  in the Graduate Life Center (GLC) Multipurpose room. The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (ΙΔΡ) organizes this symposium to promote interdisciplinary work being performed at Virginia Tech by graduate and undergraduate students. Dr. Bill Newell, a leading scholar on interdisciplinary research, will be the keynote speaker and host an interactive panel discussion. Additionally, undergraduate and graduate students will present their research in poster sessions and compete for poster awards in their respective categories. Coffee and lunch break provided. Registration is free! To register go to http://www.idrsociety.org/what-we-do-2/idr-symposium-2012/ .

13. STUDENT TRAVEL GRANTS FROM VT ENGAGE – 3rd posting
If you are traveling to a conference to present or lead a workshop related to civic engagement, service, or social justice, VT Engage would like to help you with travel costs. VT Engage is offering travel awards for the 2012-2013 academic year, up to $300 for selected applicants. There is a brief application at http://tinyurl.com/VTEngageTravel12-13 and decisions are made on a rolling basis. For more information, visit: http://tinyurl.com/VTEngageTravelSheet12-13 or contact Lauren Kennedy, Burruss 113, kennedy0@vt.edu.

14. PRESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP (PMF) – 2nd posting
Applications for the Class of 2013 application period will open on Monday, Nov 5 and close on Monday, Nov 19, 2012. Applicants must be nominated by Graduate Dean Karen P. DePauw. The PMF nomination document is Form 1300 and is part of the application. This form along with a maximum of 2-pages containing a brief CV and short essay that addresses: 1) breadth and quality of accomplishments;  2) capacity for leadership;  3) commitment to excellence in leadership and management of public policies and programs, can be emailed to grads@vt.edu or sent by fax to 540-231-3714 by Nov 15.  Do not send directly to Dean DePauw. For questions call 231-4558. Application information is available at the PMF website www.pmf.gov.  

15. SPRING GRAD COURSE OFFERINGS
The Graduate School courses for spring semester include the following:
— Communicating Science: GRAD 5984 CRN 18468 Friday 2:20-4:15 PM
  Taught by Patricia Raun, this short course is designed for graduate students in scientific or technological fields to increase their ability to communicate about their work in a variety of contexts and to lessen the discomfort of spontaneous interaction. Areas of emphasis will include tools for synchronous communication (one-to-one, one-to-an-audience, and media-based) which include imagination, relaxation, observation, and concentration through improvisation. Some attention will be focused on the tools required for distilling messages in writing (asynchronous communication).
— Effective Academic Assessment for Higher Education CRN 18694 Thursday 6:00-8:50 PM
  Taught by Ray Van Dyke, this course provides an overview of assessment principles and practices in contemporary higher education. The course promotes a general
understanding of academic assessment, as well as the assessment of ancillary programs that support academic quality. The course prepares the future professoriate to design and implement successful assessment practices that enhance teaching and learning.
— Cognition, Learning, and the Internet CRN 18776 Tu,Th 9:30-10:45 AM.
Taught by Gardner Campbell, this course explores the intersections of computing, information science, education, Internet studies, the humanities, and the visual and performing arts, as well as the crucial and long-contested relationships among making, doing, and knowing.
— Topics in Interdisciplinary Research: Regenerative Medicine: Science and Society
  Taught by a team of instructors representing three colleges, this course will provide a general introduction to the science and promise of regenerative medicine. We seek to integrate stem cell biology, biomaterials/bioengineering, social and ethical issues, experimental design, and business and public policy into one cohesive program of study because of the transformative nature of this area. The course format will include a combination of didactic lectures and discussions. Expect faculty members from all involved units in attendance at this course, learning from each other and learning together. GRAD 5134 T/R 12:30-1:45 pm.
—Topics in Interdisciplinary Research: Translational Plant Science
 Taught by John McDowell, this course will examine the process through which insights from basic research are translated Learning Units will progress along a continuum from basic science to applied science to social and economic impacts. Progression through the units: (1) What are the key questions, issues, or problems? (2) What do we, as a scientific community, already know? (3) What knowledge is necessary to move the field forward? (4) What are the strategies we can use for generating this knowledge and for solving the problem? The course will be interdisciplinary and include modules in social and economic assessment training, as well as intellectual property and commercialization. GRAD 5134 T/R 9:30-10:45 am.
 
16. CALL FOR PAPERS, PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL – 3rd posting
Submit your paper, book review, or multimedia work! Public Knowledge Journal, an open-access peer-reviewed journal hosted by the Center for Digital Discourse and Culture at Virginia Tech, seeks articles, book reviews, essays, interviews, and multimedia submissions for Volume 4, Issue 2, on Interventions. The last day to submit for this issue is Saturday, October 20. Public Knowledge is a graduate student journal 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? Submit to:  editor@pkjournal.org

17. COACH SOUGHT FOR BBURG MASTERS SWIMMING – PAID POSITION! – 3rd posting
Blacksburg Masters Swimming http://www.blacksburgmasters.com needs a weekday coach (Tue and Thu 8:00-9:30am).  Preference will be given to candidates with prior coaching experience or who have swam at the collegiate level.  All practices are held at the VT War Memorial Gym pool.  If interested, please contact Laurel Davis (ldavis52@gmail.com; 953-2515).

18. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR SWEETNESS EQUIVALENCE SENSORY STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are sought for evaluating the sweetness intensity of sweeteners (natural and artificial) in a sensory study on Monday, Nov 5 and Wednesday, Nov 7 from 10am-3pm in the Department of Food Science and Technology Sensory Evaluation Laboratory (Rm 127 FST Building – Corner of Duck Pond Dr. and Washington St across from VBI). Participants will be asked to taste and evaluate sweetened water solutions. This will take only 15-20 minutes. A selection of snacks will be offered for your participation.  If interested, please register through this VT survey link: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1348096426103. An email with more details will be sent to those who fill out the survey.

19. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH PROJECT ON BT EXPERIENCES – 1st posting
Researchers are conducting a study focused on capturing customers’ experiences riding Blacksburg Transit and using Blacksburg Transit’s website.  If you are above 18, take Blacksburg Transit at least three times a week, including trips to places other than campus, and have a smart phone, researchers would like to interview you about your experiences taking the bus. The interview should take 30-45 minutes and your responses and participation will be kept confidential. If you are interested, please contact Yushi Yang at yushi@vt.edu.

20. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON ADVISOR/ADVISEE RELATIONSHIPS – 1st posting
VT researchers are conducting a study on how international and domestic PhD students experience their relationship with their doctoral advisor within an education-related discipline. International and domestic doctoral students who have completed at least one year in an education-related program are invited to participate in this study. Participation is completely confidential.  Your identity will be known only to the co-investigators of this study and every effort will be made to mask any identifying information.  Participation will have no impact on grades, academic standing or eligibility for any activities, and does not include any compensation. If you are interested, please email Nicole Johnson at nicj712@vt.edu. Participants will be selected at random from the pool of volunteers. Must be 18 or older and in at least second year of doctoral study.

21. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MUSCLE FATIGUE STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a study assessing the effect of localized muscle fatigue on slip and fall risks. The study consists of 4 experimental sessions (each lasting approximately 2-2.5 hours). Participants will be compensated $10/hour with a $40 bonus after completing all sessions. Requirements: male or female, age 35-64, no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders. If interested, please contact Rahul Songra at locomotionresearchlab@gmail.com for further details.

22. 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.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON THE PRACTICES OF WORKING MOTHERS – 1st posting
Participants who have had, have, or plan to have infants while working at Virginia Tech are needed for a study investigating the practice of nursing on campus.  This study seeks all women faculty, staff, or graduate students at the Blacksburg campus, regardless of their choice to bottle- or breast-feed with formula or human milk.  Participants will be asked to partake in a 35-45 minute interview at a mutually agreeable time and location.  If interested, please contact Jennifer Porter at (410) 570-3391 or jport89@vt.edu for more information.

24. VT STUDENTS FOR OBAMA – 2nd posting
Want to help re-elect President Obama? The VT Students for Obama group has volunteer opportunities every day through the election. If you want to help to ensure that the President wins on Nov. 6th, contact Victoria Elliott at velliott@vt.edu.

25. 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.

26. GRADUATE STUDENT MENTORS NEEDED – 3rd posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields! This program allows undergraduate students to shadow a graduate mentor for 2–4 hours per week over 2 weeks. Undergraduates and graduates are matched according to their area of study, allowing the undergraduate to get a taste for graduate school and to ask questions of current graduate students. Each graduate mentor will be matched with 2–4 mentees, who will shadow them at times convenient for the graduate mentor during the Spring semester. Mentors must attend one program orientation meeting the second week of the Spring semester, after which they will coordinate shadowing activities independently with their undergraduate mentees. If you have any questions please contact gump@vt.edu.  All interested graduate students should fill out the application.

27. UPCOMING EVENTS:

EFFECTIVE READING WORKSHOP
Thursday, Nov 8, 5:00-8:00pm, GLC Room C
Educational researchers estimate that, at best, we retain only about 10 percent of the information that we read.  Want to improve on that estimate in your academic reading?  The key to becoming a more effective reader is to learn how academic information in published papers is structured and then to discipline one’s self to hunt for information actively rather than passively wait for the information to appear on the page.  This workshop will describe how you can read more actively and purposely in order to locate needed information, increase comprehension, and boast retention for later use. Questions?  Contact Tara at tara@vt.edu.  Please sign up online .

GRADUATE STUDENT BOOK CLUB
Monday, Nov 26, 9:00 PM, GLC Room C
Seth Grahame-Smith’s first book, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, was a surprise hit.  Then Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter came along and got its own movie adaptation.  Want to get serious on this comic novel?  Join the GLC fellows and other graduate students for light refreshments and discuss the book for this monthly book-club series. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows.  If you have any questions, please contact Mark Smiley at esmark86@vt.edu.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC 

• 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. GSA DELEGATE MEETING
Monday, Oct 22, 5:30–7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GSA delegate body is comprised of graduate students who serve as representatives for their respective academic departments and are 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 us them at this meeting. Fill out this survey to help them estimate the food and drinks that will be served. For more information please contact Shaimaa Abdallah (shaimaa@vt.edu), GSA President.

3. THE DEBATES: YOU DECIDE
Monday, Oct 22, 9:00-10:30pm, GLC Student 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.

4. TOWN OF BLACKSBURG WANTS YOUR INPUT
Tuesday, Oct 23, 11:00am-1:30pm, GLC Lobby
The Town of Blacksburg is updating its Comprehensive Plan and needs input from you, the residents. The Town of Blacksburg wants to hear from YOU! Share your thoughts on the future – stop by the GLC lobby to chat with representatives.

5. GAME NIGHT IN THE GLC
Tuesday, Oct 23, 8:00-10:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Take a break from homework, meetings and tests and have a little fun! Enjoy some healthy competition with other grad students in a variety of games. Feel free to bring food, drinks, and of course, your favorite games. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Contact Emily Eskew for more details at eceskew@vt.edu.

6. ETD WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Oct 24 and Oct 31, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room F
The Graduate School will be holding two ETD workshops for those students who need help in developing their ETD’s or those who would like their ETD looked over for minor errors before submission. There will be a list of frequently found errors, as well as formatting templates and copyright help. Whether you are just starting to develop your ETD or are ready to submit it for review, this workshop is for you!

7. STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Oct 24, 3:00pm, GLC Room D
Feeling stressed?  Learn about strategies to decrease stress in your daily life, and to cope better with stress when it does happen! Included will be ways to enhance the enjoyable activities that are already part of your life, improve your ability to manage worries, and relaxation techniques.  Space is limited so sign up here. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Services Office.  Questions?  Contact Tara at tara@vt.edu.

8. BIKE TUNE-UP SOCIAL
Thursday, Oct 25, 12:00-13:30pm, GLC Patio and Stage
Sponsored by the VT Bicycle Ambassador Program, this event is open to all students, faculty, and staff on campus. Two of the Emergency Bike Kits on campus are located at Squires and Newman Library, so the GLC Plaza is the perfect place between those locations. Using tools from the emergency kits, bike ambassadors will help repair bikes by patching tires, adjusting breaks, etc. For additional information contact kathrynx@vt.edu.

9. "THE HOW AND WHY OF GRADUATE SCHOOL APPLICATIONS" FOR SPANISH LANGUAGE PROGRAMS
Thursday, Oct 25, 3:00pm, Major Williams Hall, Room 327
Thinking about applying for a PhD? Come hear Dr. Zac Zimmer’s presentation on "The How and Why of Graduate School Applications," specifically for Spanish language programs or those looking to highlight Spanish language experience on their applications. Dr. Zimmer recently completed his doctoral degree from Cornell University and is an Assistant Professor of Spanish in the Department of Foreign languages and Literatures. Take advantage of this great opportunity to hear what makes a good PhD candidate and a successful application. The event is sponsored by Sigma Delta Pi, the Hispanic Honor Society.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 25, 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. 

11. OCTOBER BGSO SOCIAL
Friday, Oct 26, 6:30-10:00pm, Sharkey’s (Downtown Blacksburg)
Graduate students are invited to join and mingle with members of the Black Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) at their October social. Contact Larry at lacox@vt.edu with any questions. Follow BGSO on Facebook.

12. THE PARANORMAL UNIVERSE WITH NAHUM ARAV
Friday, Oct 26, 7:00-8:15pm, GLC Auditorium
Sponsor: Freethinkers at Virginia Tech. Join astronomer Nahum Arav to explore the evidence for paranormal phenomena. What roles do human psychology, sociology, and the media play in our understanding of astrology, crop circles, UFOs, etc? Stay for discussion afterward.

13. DURGA PUJO CELEBRATION
Saturday, Oct 27, 3:15-8:30pm, Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center
The Bengali Students’ Association at VT is proud to present this year’s Durga Pujo celebration, a time for families and friends to get together for cultural celebration and to share and wish love and prosperity amongst all. The event will include a token ceremony, a sumptuous Indian dinner, and a gala cultural show. Tickets (ceremony + Indian dinner + cultural program): VT student special pricing: $11.99. Others: $14.99 per person. Children under 10 attend for free! Website: http://www.bengali.org.vt.edu. Email: vtpujo@gmail.com. Seats are limited, so please get your tickets at the earliest online.

14. HALLOWEEN COSTUME DANCE PARTY
Saturday, Oct 27, 9:00pm-2:00am, at Giovanni’s / O’s Lounge
Tickets on sale now: $ 4.00 pre-sale; $5.00 at the door. Open to all public, age 18 and up. At Giovanni’s / O’s Lounge (Formerly Abella’s) across from Sheesha and beside Bollo’s on 204 Draper Rd NW Blacksburg, VA 24060. Contact a LAIGSA active members to buy a Pre-sale ticket. Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Reggaeton, Latín Hip-Hop, Reggae and more. For more information about this event contact grad student Raul Saucedo at rsaucedo@vt.edu.

15. AEL MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED – 1st posting
Fall 2012 Application Deadline: Nov 19 by 5 p.m. Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) Graduate Honor Society, the only academic excellence and leadership honor society of graduate and professional school students, is now accepting applications for new members. Graduate students may become members based on their academic achievements and leadership experiences. Please apply by Nov 19 through http://www.ael.graduateschool.vt.edu/application-process/. For more information please visit the AEL website or contact Shernita Lee, President of AEL, at shernita@vt.edu with any questions.

16. REGISGRATION OPEN FOR SECOND ANNUAL INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Registration is now open for the Second Annual Interdisciplinary Research Symposium, held at Virginia Tech on Nov 2nd, 9am-3pm,  in the Graduate Life Center (GLC) Multipurpose room. The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (ΙΔΡ) organizes this symposium to promote interdisciplinary work being performed at Virginia Tech by graduate and undergraduate students. Dr. Bill Newell, a leading scholar on interdisciplinary research, will be the keynote speaker and host an interactive panel discussion. Additionally, undergraduate and graduate students will present their research in poster sessions and compete for poster awards in their respective categories. Coffee and lunch break provided. Registration is free! To register go to symposium.idrsociety.org.

17. STUDENT TRAVEL GRANTS FROM VT ENGAGE – 2nd posting
If you are traveling to a conference to present or lead a workshop related to civic engagement, service, or social justice, VT Engage would like to help you with travel costs. VT Engage is offering travel awards for the 2012-2013 academic year, up to $300 for selected applicants. There is a brief application at http://tinyurl.com/VTEngageTravel12-13 and decisions are made on a rolling basis. For more information, visit: http://tinyurl.com/VTEngageTravelSheet12-13 or contact Lauren Kennedy, Burruss 113, kennedy0@vt.edu.

18. PRESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT FELLOWSHIP (PMF)
Applications for the Class of 2013 application period will open on Monday, Nov 5 and close on Monday, Nov 19, 2012. Applicants must be nominated by Graduate Dean Karen P. DePauw. The PMF nomination document is Form 1300 and is part of the application. This form along with a maximum of 2-pages containing a brief CV and short essay that addresses: 1) breadth and quality of accomplishments;  2) capacity for leadership;  3) commitment to excellence in leadership and management of public policies and programs, can be emailed to grads@vt.edu or sent by fax to 540-231-3714 by Nov 15.  Do not send directly to Dean DePauw. For questions call 231-4558. Application information is available at the PMF website www.pmf.gov.  

19. SPRING COURSE OFFERINGS
The Graduate School courses for spring semester include the following:
– Preparing the Future Professoriate
– Pedagogical Practices
– Career Development for the Future Professional
– Research in International Contexts
– Communicating Science
– Effective Academic Assessment for Higher Education
– Topics in Interdisciplinary Research
Find details on these and other GRAD courses for spring 2013 in the Timetable. Web course request begins Oct 23.

20. VT STUDENTS FOR OBAMA – 1st posting
Want to help re-elect President Obama? The VT Students for Obama group has volunteer opportunities every day through the election. If you want to help to ensure that the President wins on Nov. 6th, contact Victoria Elliott at velliott@vt.edu.

21. CALL FOR PAPERS, PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL – 2nd posting
Submit your paper, book review, or multimedia work!
Public Knowledge Journal, an open-access peer-reviewed journal hosted by the Center for Digital Discourse and Culture at Virginia Tech, seeks articles, book reviews, essays, interviews, and multimedia submissions for Volume 4, Issue 2, on Interventions. The last day to submit for this issue is Saturday, October 20. Public Knowledge is a graduate student journal 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? Submit to:  editor@pkjournal.org

22. INTERDISCIPLINARY GRAD STUDY ABROAD PROJECT IN BRAZIL – 3rd posting
The Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability (CNRE program in the National Capital Region – http://cligs.vt.edu) is offering a graduate-level interdisciplinary study abroad project in Brazil over winter break and the spring semester for students interested in gaining international experience in cross-sector partnerships for sustainable development. The Global Sustainability Initiative (GSI) 2013 Brazil Project will be offered as a spring course (NR 5954) for six credits. Spanning ten weeks with 10 days spent in Brazil over winter break, the GSI Brazil Project will explore innovative cross-sector strategies to conserve and enhance Brazil’s valuable ecosystem services while meeting rising global food demands. The team will travel to a variety of locations including the Atlantic Rainforest and Cerrado biomes, and cities that are leading the way for green infrastructure in Latin America. Application deadline: Nov 9, 2012. To learn more and apply, visit http://gsi.cnre.vt.edu.

23. COACH SOUGHT FOR BBURG MASTERS SWIMMING – PAID POSITION!
Blacksburg Masters Swimming http://www.blacksburgmasters.com needs a weekday coach (Tue and Thu 8:00-9:30am).  Preference will be given to candidates with prior coaching experience or who have swam at the collegiate level.  All practices are held at the VT War Memorial Gym pool.  If interested, please contact Laurel Davis (ldavis52@gmail.com; 953-2515).

24. 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.

25. RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STRESS MANAGEMENT STUDY – 1st posting
Researchers conducting a study through the VT School of Education are examining graduate student experiences and management of stress – please consider participating! Any graduate student who is currently enrolled full-time at Virginia Tech is eligible. The study involves a 30-min in-person interview with a graduate student researcher. Location and scheduling of interview are flexible, based on what is convenient for you. Your confidentiality will be protected and your name will not be shared with anyone. Participants will be compensated with a $5 Starbucks gift card. If you are interested, please contact Brock Mutcheson at rbmutch@vt.edu or (402) 618-2580.

26. GRADUATE STUDENT MENTORS NEEDED – 2nd posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields! This program allows undergraduate students to shadow a graduate mentor for 2–4 hours per week over 2 weeks. Undergraduates and graduates are matched according to their area of study, allowing the undergraduate to get a taste for graduate school and to ask questions of current graduate students. Each graduate mentor will be matched with 2–4 mentees, who will shadow them at times convenient for the graduate mentor during the Spring semester. Mentors must attend one program orientation meeting the second week of the Spring semester, after which they will coordinate shadowing activities independently with their undergraduate mentees. If you have any questions please contact gump@vt.edu.  All interested graduate students should fill out the application.

27. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON MOTHERS AND CHILDREN – 3rd posting
Are you a mother who sometimes worries or has fears? Do you have a child between 7 and 12 years of age? A new study is investigating how mothers and children interpret situations in their day-to-day lives. The study is being conducted at the Child Study Center at 460 Turner Street, Suite 207, Blacksburg. For more information please contact Kristin Austin at momanxiety@vt.edu or call 540-231-8276. Compensation: $50.

28. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF ANXIETY AND DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN- 3rd posting
This project is for children ages 10-14 and their families. The family will have the opportunity to participate in an experimental treatment lasting approximately 12 sessions designed for children who worry excessively and exhibit disruptive behaviors (e.g., talking back, refusing to do things, becoming easily angered, etc.). Children participating in the study will be assessed prior to treatment, throughout treatment, immediately following treatment, and 1 month later. All assessment and treatment sessions will be free of charge. The study is being conducted at the Child Study Center of Virginia Tech. For more information please contact Maria Fraire at mgfraire@vt.edu or call 540-231-2024 or check out our website: http://www.psyc.vt.edu/labs/csc/dropout.

29. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR ELECTION VOLUNTEERS STUDY – 3rd posting
A VT graduate student is looking for volunteers from the local offices of the presidential election campaigns to participate in a study about campaign messages. Respondents will be asked to complete a brief survey, and selected contributors may be asked to participate in 1-3 one-on-one interviews at their convenience, either in person or over the phone. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Tana Schiewer at tanas@vt.edu. Must be 18 years of age or older.

30. UPCOMING EVENTS:

ASSESSMENT PROCESS IN THE HIGHER EDUCATION PROGRAM
Monday, Oct 29, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
Hear how the Higher Education Program in the School of Education has developed student outcomes and measures and then used the information gathered to inform decision-making regarding curriculum and other aspects of the program.  Sign up online at http://www.cideronline.org/events/events2.cfm   Sponsored by the Office of Assessment and Evaluation.

GRADUATE PUMPKIN CARVING PARTY
Monday, Oct 29, 5:30-7:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
The GLC Fellows and the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) are sponsoring this Pumpkin Carving Party. Pumpkins, carving tools, and food will be provided. You are responsible for bringing the fun! Prizes will be given in several “best pumpkin” categories at 7pm.  This event is open to all graduate students and their children as well. Please contact Andrae Hash at hashas@vt.edu if you have any questions. Please complete the survey registration to indicate that you are coming: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1349457070525.

AEL LAST LECTURE SPEAKER: DR. E. SCOTT GELLER
Monday, Oct 29, 7:30pm, GLC Room G
Alpha Lambda Epsilon (AEL), a graduate honor society, invites you to its first Last Lecture Speaker for 2012/2013 school year: Dr. E. Scott Geller will present his topic "Actively Caring for People:  A worldwide movement for safety, security, and global peace."  Refreshments will be provided.  Please direct any questions to Tammy Parece at tammyep@vt.edu.

SUPPORT YOUR GLC VOLLEBALL TEAM!
Monday, Oct 29, 7:30pm War Memorial Gym 141
Come out and support the GLC volleyball team at their first game. Interested in joining the team? Contact Mitchell Ostrout, grad student and captain of a grad Co.Rec team at ostroutm@vt.edu.

WORK-LIFE INTEGRATION WEBINAR
Tuesday, Oct 30, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
With the pressures of technology, globalization, and productivity, the typical workday has encroached upon what used to be considered home life. It’s harder than ever to maintain boundaries. Explore ways to identify the right balance between work and home, allowing you to contribute fully to both. We’ll share practices to manage it all and also how to communicate expectations to those around you. Hosted by the Central Virginia Women Transportation Seminar. For more information, please contact Renee LoSapio at rlosapio@vt.edu. Guest speakers:  Jennifer Pope, Vice President, Member Interactions, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans; Shannan Gardner, Partner at Moss Adams LLP.

LGBTQ-HISTORY SAFE ZONE SESSION
Thursday, Nov 1, 2:00-4:00pm, GLC Room G
In the world today we hear about people coming out or being outed; we hear the debate about gay marriage, we hear politicians pander to different groups using LGBT Rights as a polarizing strategy; but none of this is new. This session will look at the history of the LGBT community especially in Europe and the US hitting important moments in the struggle for equal rights; how homosexuality by definition has changed and how it is twisted; key moments that transgender and intersex individuals have faced. Hopefully you will walk away with a better understanding of how LGBT individuals have impacted history then and now. This workshop counts towards Safe Zone certification.  Space is limited.  Sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1350402760241  Questions? Contact Tara at tara@vt.edu.

GRADUATE COSMIC BOWLING NIGHT
Friday, Nov 2, 9pm-1am, BreakZone in Squires Student Center
Join your fellow graduate students for a night of friendly competition with COSMIC bowling at the BreakZone! Bowl as much as you want, for as long as you want, at no cost to you. All graduate students are welcome! Hosted by the GLC Fellows. If you have any questions, please email Marielly Ruiz at mzruiz@vt.edu.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC 

• 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. GET INVOLVED WITH THE GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM!
Monday, Oct 8, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC videoconference room
Wednesday, Oct 10, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room D
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. If you are interested, please email ghs@vt.edu.

3. TOUR THE HAHN HORTICULTURE GARDEN – SIGN UP NOW!
Tuesday, Oct 9, 1:30pm
The Hahn Horticulture Garden encompasses nearly six acres of teaching and display gardens on Virginia Tech’s campus. The garden serves as a Learning resource for plant material, landscaping concepts, and environmental awareness.  Features include perennial borders, water gardens, shade gardens, and meadow garden, and the Peggy Lee Hahn Garden Pavilion. Learn more about the Hahn Horticulture Garden with this special tour!  Space is limited so please sign up here. Questions? Contact Tara Frank. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Services Office.

4. FREE MOVIE NIGHT – "BIUTIFUL"
Wednesday, Oct 10, 7:00pm, GLC Auditorium
Come and join LAIGSA for a free movie night! “Biutiful” is a drama directed by Mexican director Alejandro GonzálezIñárritu and starring Javier Bardem. This movie was nominated for two Academy Awards in 2011 – Best Foreign Language Film and Best Actor. Open to everybody, organized by the Latin American and Iberian Graduate Students Association as part of the Hispanic Latino Heritage Month.

5. MIND AND BODY CHECK FAIR
Thursday, Oct 11, 11:00am-3:00pm, McComas Hall Lobby (Health Ed/Rec Sports side)
The Cook Counseling Center in collaboration with Schiffert Health Center’s Health Education, Recreational Sports, and HNFE is sponsoring this fair to provide opportunities for students to get a mental health check, talk with personal trainers and nutrition counselors, and get information on how to protect their skin from the sun (facial Dermascan skin self-checks available).  Information will be provided to help improve your health and overall well-being.  Giveaways and a raffle for massage therapy gift certificates! For additional information, contact Charlotte Amenkhienan or David Andrews, 231-7780.

5B. LITTLE HOKIES SWAP
Thursday, Oct 11, 3:00-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Donated baby- and children’s items will be displayed in the Multipurpose Room for graduate student parents to take. Bags will be provided at entry and graduate students can fill their bag with as many items as they may need.

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 11, 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. Last week’s call still stands: share your favorite poetry or quote! Bring it on a piece of paper and post in on a bulletin board in the Reading Room for everyone to enjoy. Bring your own mug if you can. 

7. FULBRIGHT SCHOLARS’ FALL MEETING
Thursday, Oct 11, 6:00pm, The Cellar
Get to know fellow Fulbright Scholars (current, Alumni & friends) at Virginia Tech and enjoy a couple of hours of conversation in a multicultural and diverse group. Please RSVP. Contact Tobias (202)870-9722) for questions and comments.

8. SUBMISSIONS ARE INVITED FOR GLC ART, PHOTO AND WRITING CONTEST – 3rd 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 >>. Don’t be shy, please share your photos, art work and writing with others!

9. REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT – SIGN UP NOW!
The second annual GLC Open House Cornhole Tournament will take place on Friday, Oct 19, 1:00-3:00pm on the Graduate School Lawn.  Up to ten teams of two will compete in a double-elimination tournament. At least one member of each team must be a graduate student. Sign up here. Please contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu if you have questions.

10. REC SPORTS SPECIAL FALL EVENTS
Learn what all rec sports has to offer to individuals and groups who are interested in different exercise formats.

11. DONATE ITEMS FOR LITTLE HOKIES SWAP
Donations accepted through Oct 10, GLC
The Graduate School, the Graduate Student Assembly and the Women’s Center are sponsoring a first ever grab bag for Little Hokies to benefit VT graduate students and their children. Unused or gently used children’s items for ages 0-10 are collected (toys [including music and film DVDs], clothing, formula (that is not expired), medical supplies (breast pumps, other lactation devices), strollers, car seats, school supplies, bedding, bathing and grooming supplies (bathers, unopened/unused creams, lotions, powders), feeding supplies (bibs, baby bottles, food warmers), baby gear (activity gyms, bassinets, play mats, baby carriers, swings), diapers. All donations can be dropped off at the Graduate Life Center from Oct 1-10. On Oct 11, 3:00-8:00pm, the donated items will be displayed in the GLC Multipurpose Room. Bags will be provided at entry and graduate students can fill their bag with as many items as they may need.

12. 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.

13. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM – 2nd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is now accepting undergraduate and graduate student abstract submissions for the poster session of the Second Annual Interdisciplinary Research Symposium, held at Virginia Tech on Nov 2, 9:00am-3:00pm, in the Graduate Life Center (GLC) Multipurpose room. Abstracts will be selected primarily on the extent of integration of distinct disciplines into the author’s work and secondarily on the results, outcomes, impact of the work. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 8. Abstract format & submission guidelines>>. Abstract notifications will be sent on Oct 22. Any Questions? Contact Megan Holcomb  or Elizabeth Elvington.

14. JOIN THE GRAD SCHOLARS SOCIETY NOW! – 2nd posting
Graduate students are invited to participate in the Graduate Scholars Society. 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 offers a forum for graduate students from any department and any origin to examine the broader issues effecting our lives and times. Each group is limited in size and meets based on its own needs (most in the evenings, some off campus, some on). For more information, email Gold Darr at grd0001@gmail.com. The topics: The Financial Future of America! Election platforms, domestic policy–making sense of the proposed financial strategies; Current Events in Global Economics: Should Greece stay in the Euro? What are the implications of China’s currency strategies?; Future of Robotics – In 50 years and what should the world look like?; One topic TBA. Please complete this poll to determine which group you are interested in and to receive more information regarding GSS.

15. INTERDISCIPLINARY GRAD STUDY ABROAD PROJECT IN BRAZIL – 1st posting
The Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability (CNRE program in the National Capital Region – http://cligs.vt.edu) is offering a graduate-level interdisciplinary study abroad project in Brazil over winter break and the spring semester for students interested in gaining international experience in cross-sector partnerships for sustainable development. The Global Sustainability Initiative (GSI) 2013 Brazil Project will be offered as a spring course (NR 5954) for six credits. Spanning ten weeks with 10 days spent in Brazil over winter break, the GSI Brazil Project will explore innovative cross-sector strategies to conserve and enhance Brazil’s valuable ecosystem services while meeting rising global food demands. The team will travel to a variety of locations including the Atlantic Rainforest and Cerrado biomes, and cities that are leading the way for green infrastructure in Latin America. Application deadline: Nov 9, 2012. Learn more and apply >>.

16. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) is now accepting applications. GRDP provides monetary support to graduate students for research associated with their thesis or dissertation. The maximum award amounts are $500 for master’s students and $700 for doctoral students. Submit applications or find more information about the program, eligibility, application process, and FAQs >>.  Email Amanda Shea (ashea04@vt.edu) with any questions.

17. TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP) NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 3rd 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.  More information about the program, eligibility, application process, and FAQs may be found online; email if you have any questions.

18. WAGE POSITION OPEN FOR GRAD STUDENTS – 2nd posting
Drs. Holly Matusovich and Marie Paretti in the Department of Engineering Education are currently seeking graduate students to transcribe interviews associated with an NSF-funded project entitled “Understanding Barriers to Engineering as a Career Choice Among Appalachian Youth”.  The interviews are one-on-one and are approximately one hour long.  Participants range from high school students to working professionals.  The position will be approximately 10-20 hours of time per week at $10.00/hour to start. Experience with interview transcription is preferred but not required. Please contact Matthew Boynton if interested or to seek additional information.
 
19. GRA POSITION OPENING – 3rd 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 >>.

20. CALL FOR GSA PROGRAM CHAIR APPLICATIONS – 3rd 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 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 at efm28@vt.edu. 

21. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GSA FALL WINE SOCIAL – 1st posting
The GSA is seeking volunteers to assist in the upcoming fall wine social on Friday, Oct 19, 3:45-8:30pm at the University Club. Tasks will include set-up, registration, food preparation, bottle openers, pourers, and clean-up. Regardless of the task, all volunteers must be present for a pre-social meeting to take place at 4:30pm the day of the event.  If you would like to volunteer or have additional questions please contact Elaine Mathis, VP of Programs. 

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON MOTHERS AND CHILDREN – 1st posting
Are you a mother who sometimes worries or has fears? Do you have a child between 7 and 12 years of age? A new study is investigating how mothers and children interpret situations in their day-to-day lives. The study is being conducted at the Child Study Center at 460 Turner Street, Suite 207, Blacksburg. For more information please contact Kristin Austin or call 540-231-8276. Compensation: $50.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY OF ANXIETY AND DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN-1st posting
This project is for children ages 10-14 and their families. The family will have the opportunity to participate in an experimental treatment lasting approximately 12 sessions designed for children who worry excessively and exhibit disruptive behaviors (e.g., talking back, refusing to do things, becoming easily angered, etc.). Children participating in the study will be assessed prior to treatment, throughout treatment, immediately following treatment, and 1 month later. All assessment and treatment sessions will be free of charge.The study is being conducted at the Child Study Center of Virginia Tech. For more information please contact Maria Fraire at mgfraire@vt.edu or call 540-231-2024 or check out our website.

24. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR ELECTION VOLUNTEERS STUDY – 1st posting
A VT graduate student is looking for volunteers from the local offices of the presidential election campaigns to participate in a study about campaign messages. Respondents will be asked to complete a brief survey, and selected contributors may be asked to participate in 1-3 one-on-one interviews at their convenience, either in person or over the phone. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Tana Schiewer. Must be 18 years of age or older.

25. CHILDREN SOUGHT FOR STUDY – 2nd posting
A study through the VT Department of Psychology is examining mother-child interactions in children without a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Researchers seek children ages 4-11 without an Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism, Asperger’s, or PDD-NOS) to complete age-appropriate play-based tasks involving mother and child (1 visit) in the VT Autism Clinic in Blacksburg or Roanoke Higher Education Center in Roanoke. Flexible scheduling – daytime, evening, or weekend appointments available. Families will be compensated $15 for participation; a brief summary of the autism and cognitive assessments is also available. If you are interested in participating, please contact Tyler Hassenfeldt or (412) 600-8304.

26. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STORYTELLING ACTIVITY – 3rd 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 or 540-998 6488 if interested in participating.

27. UPCOMING EVENTS:

AN UT PROSIM INDEX: MEASURING STUDENTS’ SERVICE ORIENTATION
Monday, Oct 15, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
Bring your lunch and come hear how VT Engage is developing instruments to measure students’ service orientation. This session should be of interest to anyone who is measuring the learning outcomes of their students or outcomes of programs. Sign up online >>  Sponsored by the Office of Assessment and Evaluation.

LEARN TURKISH AT VT: FREE LANGUAGE CLASSES
Wednesdays, starting Oct 17, 6:00-7:00pm, Cranwell International Center
Sponsored by the Intercultural Understanding Club (ICUC), experienced teachers are offering Turkish language classes from beginner to advanced levels. You don’t need to know any Turkish to start. One hour class per week and four classes in a month. Registration >>; Questions: Haktan Suren – hsuren@vt.edu.

NUTRITION WORKSHOP
Thursday, Oct 18, 2:00-3:30pm, GLC Room F
Are you curious about how to eat healthy on and off campus?  How to read a food label?  How to identify serving sizes?  This interactive workshop will go over common food myths, help you examine what you are currently eating, and give you realistic tips and resources on how to create a better plate.  Please register online >>. Questions? 
Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu.

GLC OPEN HOUSE 2012
Friday, Oct 19, 10:00am-3:00pm, GLC
The Graduate School and Graduate Life Center will host an open house in the nationally recognized, award-winning Graduate Life Center (GLC).  Special events for graduate students and visitors include: art, writing and photo contest; tour of the GLC residence hall on upper floors; scavenger hunt – win a limited-edition GLC t-shirt and other small prizes; cornhole tournament; free refreshments all day; and more!

GSA FALL WINE SOCIAL
Friday, Oct 19, 5:00-8:00pm. University Club
Join GSA and your fellow grad students at this popular annual event – the GSA fall wine social! Wine services will stop at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 for food and wine or $5 for food only. GSA delegate and cabinet members can get in for $5 at the door. If you have any questions please contact Elaine Mathis, VP of Programs. 

GAME NIGHT IN THE GLC
Tuesday, Oct 23, 8:00-10:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Take a break from homework, meetings and tests and have a little fun! Enjoy some healthy competition with other grad students in a variety of games. Feel free to bring food, drinks, and of course, your favorite games. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Contact Emily Eskew for more details.

STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Oct 24, 3:00pm, GLC Room D
Feeling stressed?  Learn about strategies to decrease stress in your daily life, and to cope better with stress when it does happen! Included will be ways to enhance the enjoyable activities that are already part of your life, improve your ability to manage worries, and relaxation techniques.  Space is limited, so please sign up here. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Services Office.  Questions?  Contact Tara.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC  

• 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. GET INVOLVED WITH THE GRADUATE HONOR SYSTEM!
Monday, Oct 1, 4:00-5:00pm, GLC videoconference room
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. Remaining sessions:
– 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.

3. 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.  

4. DONATE ITEMS FOR LITTLE HOKIES SWAP
Donations accepted Oct 1-10, GLC
The Graduate School, the Graduate Student Assembly and the Women’s Center are sponsoring a first ever grab bag for Little Hokies to benefit VT graduate students and their children. Unused or gently used children’s items for ages 0-10 are collected (toys [including music and film DVDs], clothing, formula (that is not expired), medical supplies (breast pumps, other lactation devices), strollers, car seats, school supplies, bedding, bathing and grooming supplies (bathers, unopened/unused creams, lotions, powders), feeding supplies (bibs, baby bottles, food warmers), baby gear (activity gyms, bassinets, play mats, baby carriers, swings), diapers. All donations can be dropped off at the Graduate Life Center from Oct 1-10. On Oct 11, 3:00-8:00pm, the donated items will be displayed in the GLC Multipurpose Room. Bags will be provided at entry and graduate students can fill their bag with as many items as they may need.

5. 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.

6. SHORT STAT COURSE: ANALYZING SURVEYS
Tuesday, Oct 2, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC
Taught by Marcos Carzolio, this course will follow the Designing Surveys course focusing on analyzing the data collected from surveys. Different statistical approaches will be discussed as well as graphing and presentation of results. Instructions on how to register and to learn more. Courses are held 5:00-7:00 pm. Remaining fall 2012 Schedule:
– Monday & Tuesday, Oct 15 & 16: How to make plots to tell the story of your data. For more information, please visit our website www.lisa.stat.vt.edu. Follow LISA on Facebook.

7. 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.

8. THE DEBATES: YOU DECIDE
Wednesday, Oct 3, 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.

9. VOTER REGISTRATION DRIVE
Are YOU registered to VOTE? There’s no better time than now! Your VOICE is your VOTE!
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will be hosting a Voter Registration Drive on October 4th from 10am-2pm in the lobby of the Graduate Life Center. Visit our booth for registration forms, deadline information, and to ask your many questions about casting your vote. Regardless of which candidate you decide to support, if you are Virginia resident or would like to change your registration to a Virginia voter, you must be registered by October 15, 2012.   For more information, please visit http://www.sbe.virginia.gov/. Check your voter eligibility for any state>>
Questions: contact Kacie Allen.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Oct 4, 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. This week’s special: share your favorite poetry or quote! Bring it on a piece of paper and post in on a bulletin board in the Reading Room for everyone to enjoy. Bring your own mug if you can.  

11. 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.

12. SUBMISSIONS ARE INVITED FOR GLC ART, PHOTO AND WRITING CONTEST -2nd 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>>.

13. REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT – SIGN UP NOW!
The second annual GLC Open House Cornhole Tournament will take place on Friday, Oct 19, 1:00-3:00pm on the Graduate School Lawn.  Up to ten teams of two will compete in a double-elimination tournament. At least one member of each team must be a graduate student. Sign up here. Please contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu if you have questions.

14. 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.

15. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) is now accepting undergraduate and graduate student abstract submissions for the poster session of the Second Annual Interdisciplinary Research Symposium, held at Virginia Tech on Nov 2, 9:00am-3:00pm, in the Graduate Life Center (GLC) Multipurpose room. Abstracts will be selected primarily on the extent of integration of distinct disciplines into the author’s work and secondarily on the results, outcomes, impact of the work. Submission deadline: Monday, Oct 8. Abstract format & submission guidelines>>. Abstract notifications will be sent on Oct 22. Any Questions? Contact Megan Holcomb at mkh@vt.edu or Elizabeth Elvington at esavage@vt.edu.

16. JOIN THE GRAD SCHOLARS SOCIETY NOW!
Graduate students are invited to participate in the Graduate Scholars Society. 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 offers a forum for graduate students from any department and any origin to examine the broader issues effecting our lives and times. Each group is limited in size and meets based on its own needs (most in the evenings, some off campus, some on). For more information, email Gold Darr at grd0001@gmail.com. The topics: The Financial Future of America! Election platforms, domestic policy–making sense of the proposed financial strategies; Current Events in Global Economics: Should Greece stay in the Euro? What are the implications of China’s currency strategies?; Future of Robotics – In 50 years and what should the world look like?; One topic TBA. Please complete this poll to determine which group you are interested in and to receive more information regarding GSS.

17. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) is now accepting applications. GRDP provides monetary support to graduate students for research associated with their thesis or dissertation. The maximum award amounts are $500 for master’s students and $700 for doctoral students. To submit applications or for more information about the program, eligibility, application process, and FAQs, go to http://www.gsa.graduateschool.vt.edu/funding/grdp.  Email Amanda Shea (ashea04@vt.edu) with any questions.

18. TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM (TFP) NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 2nd 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 at  http://www.gsa.graduateschool.vt.edu/funding/tfp; email gsatfpchair@gmail.com  if you have any questions.

19. PHI BETA DELTA INTL EDUCATION HONOR SOCIETY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 2nd 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 afayad@vt.edu, 231-9668.  Application>>; deadline: 10/5.  

20. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY – 3rd 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, tammyep@vt.edu.

21. GA POSITION OPEN IN INSTITUTIONAL RESEARCH & EFFECTIVENESS – 1st posting
VT’s IRE office is looking for a Graduate Assistant for Spring 2013, and possibly immediately to assist with the conversion of some static web-site activity to dynamic, user-driven, SQL-Server apps. Required skills include SQL, with ideally at least an awareness of SQL Server Reporting Services. Additionally some experience with ASP.NET, using C# or VB.NET would be great. Preferred skills include HTML, IIS, a fun personality, dependability, and good communication skills. Interested grad students can send their information to Dennis Catley, dcatley@vt.edu by October 15, 2012 or until position is filled.

22. WAGE POSITION OPEN FOR GRAD STUDENTS – 1st posting
Drs. Holly Matusovich and Marie Paretti in the Department of Engineering Education are currently seeking graduate students to transcribe interviews associated with an NSF-funded project entitled “Understanding Barriers to Engineering as a Career Choice Among Appalachian Youth”.  The interviews are one-on-one and are approximately one hour long.  Participants range from high school students to working professionals.  The position will be approximately 10-20 hours of time per week at $10.00/hour to start. Experience with interview transcription is preferred but not required. Please contact Matthew Boynton at matthew5@vt.edu if interested or to seek additional information.
 
23. GRA POSITION OPENING – 2nd 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 at http://www.oired.vt.edu/GRA-Crop-Soil-Environmental-Sciences-JobListing.html.

24. CALL FOR GSA PROGRAM CHAIR APPLICATIONS – 2nd 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 at efm28@vt.edu.  

25. CHILDREN SOUGHT FOR STUDY – 1st posting
A study through the VT Department of Psychology is examining mother-child interactions in children without a diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Researchers seek children ages 4-11 without an Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism, Asperger’s, or PDD-NOS) to complete age-appropriate play-based tasks involving mother and child (1 visit) in the VT Autism Clinic in Blacksburg or Roanoke Higher Education Center in Roanoke. Flexible scheduling – daytime, evening, or weekend appointments available. Families will be compensated $15 for participation; a brief summary of the autism and cognitive assessments is also available. If you are interested in participating, please contact Tyler Hassenfeldt at thassen@vt.edu or (412) 600-8304.

26. REVIEWERS NEEDED FOR PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE JOURNAL – 2nd 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 can be found at pkjournal.org.  Please contact Stefanie Georgakis at sgeorgakis@vt.edu by Oct 1 if you’re interested in being a peer reviewer for this academic year.

27. PIANIST NEEDED FOR GSA WINE SOCIAL – 2nd posting
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 (sbrozina@vt.edu).    

28. 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.

29. CHILD PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STORYTELLING ACTIVITY – 2nd 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  or 540-998 6488 if interested in participating.

30. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR READING PRACTICES STUDY – 3rd 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 for further details.

31. UPCOMING EVENTS:

TOUR THE HAHN HORTICULTURE GARDEN – SIGN UP NOW!
Tuesday, Oct 9, 1:30pm
The Hahn Horticulture Garden encompasses nearly six acres of teaching and display gardens on Virginia Tech’s campus. The garden serves as a Learning resource for plant material, landscaping concepts, and environmental awareness.  Features include perennial borders, water gardens, shade gardens, and meadow garden, and the Peggy Lee Hahn Garden Pavilion. Learn more about the Hahn Horticulture Garden with this special tour!  Space is limited so please sign up. Questions? Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Services Office.

FULBRIGHT SCHOLARS’ FALL MEETING
Thursday, Oct 11, 6:00pm, The Cellar
Get to know fellow Fulbright Scholars (current, Alumni & friends) at Virginia Tech and enjoy a couple of hours of conversation in a multicultural and diverse group. Please RSVP. Contact Tobias (ecker@vt.edu, (202)870-9722) for questions and comments.

LEARN TURKISH AT VT: FREE LANGUAGE CLASSES
Wednesdays, starting Oct 17, 6:00-7:00pm, Cranwell International Center
Sponsored by the Intercultural Understanding Club (ICUC), experienced teachers are offering Turkish language classes from beginner to advanced levels. You don’t need to know any Turkish to start. One hour class per week and four classes in a month. Registration: http://www.icuc.org.vt.edu/turkish/
Questions: Haktan Suren – hsuren@vt.edu.

NUTRITION WORKSHOP
Thursday, Oct 18, 2:00-3:30pm, GLC Room F
Are you curious about how to eat healthy on and off campus?  How to read a food label?  How to identify serving sizes?  This interactive workshop will go over common food myths, help you examine what you are currently eating, and give you realistic tips and resources on how to create a better plate.  Please register online. Questions? Contact Tara Frank at tara@vt.edu.

GLC OPEN HOUSE 2012
Friday, Oct 19, 10:00am-3:00pm, GLC
The Graduate School and Graduate Life Center will host an open house in the nationally recognized, award-winning Graduate Life Center (GLC).  Special events for graduate students and visitors include: art, writing and photo contest; tour of the GLC residence hall on upper floors; scavenger hunt – win a limited-edition GLC t-shirt and other small prizes; cornhole tournament; free refreshments all day; and more!

GAME NIGHT IN THE GLC
Tuesday, Oct 23, 8:00-10:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Take a break from homework, meetings and tests and have a little fun! Enjoy some healthy competition with other grad students in a variety of games. Feel free to bring food, drinks, and of course, your favorite games. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Contact Emily Eskew for more details.