Month: November 2013

1.  THANKSGIVING BREAK BUSINESS HOURS:

Graduate School hours:

• Mon, Nov 25: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Tue, Nov 26: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Wed, Nov 27: 8:00am-12:00 noon

GLC hours: the GLC is closed for the break. Graduate students may access the first floor of the building with their valid Hokie passports.

2.  WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC – on hiatus during the break 

3.  T-BREAK CHILI LUNCHEON
Monday, Nov 25, 11:30-1:00 in the GLC Multipurpose Room
You are not alone! Join others who don’t get to leave for Thanksgiving break and enjoy some wholesome home-cooked food (meat and vegetarian options) and conversation. The menu includes chili, rice and corn bread, brownies and banana pudding, brought to you by your friendly and caring GLC- and Grad-School staff.  80 people registered by Friday morning, but we cooked for 120. If you haven’t signed up yet but would like to come, please register here: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1384783338781.

4. PIE DAY AT CRANWELL INTL CENTER
Tuesday, Nov 26,  12:00-2:00pm, Cranwell International Center
Pie Day is an annual tradition at the Cranwell International Center that fosters a feeling of community, friendship, and full stomachs! Join Cranwell staff for a meal of delicious pies, both savory and sweet. This event is open to everyone, with a special invitation to the international community for an opportunity to experience traditional foods and experiences of the Thanksgiving holiday. Contact Karen Howe at khowe@vt.edu with any questions.

5. START-UP CLASS FOR STUDENTS AND STUDENT TEAMS – 2nd posting
The StartUp Class is a semester-long course for teams of students who are interested in learning to become technology leaders and innovators through a structured curriculum that focuses on the development of a business model through customer discovery and assessment of product market fit. Teams will receive structured mentoring and have the opportunity to connect to professionals and fellow entrepreneurs.  This is not a lecture class; participants work on or form their own start up idea. This is a 3-credit elective for those who want to learn more about their own startup/business, open to any major and both grad and ugrad students. Offered Wednesdays, 4-7pm at the new incubator space in Collegiate Square (below the Next Door Bakery). If you are interested, contact startup@vt.edu.

6. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL NATIONAL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 2nd posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) was founded in 1990 specifically to honor academic excellence and leadership among graduate students.  The mission of AEL is to: confer distinction for high achievement; promote leadership development and scholarship; encourage intellectual development; enrich the intellectual environment of graduate education institutions; and encourage high standards of ethical behavior. Qualifications for membership are: (1) academic achievement in the top 35th percentile of the member’s degree program; (2) successful completion of 12 graduate credits and active enrollment in a degree program; (3) demonstrated leadership through involvement in on-campus or off-campus activities while a graduate student. Download application form at http://www.ael.graduateschool.vt.edu/application-process/ and email it to Marwa Abdel Latif at mka3@vt.edu. Submit your completed application by Jan 20.

7. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR XCALIBER AWARD – 2nd posting
The XCaliber award recognizes faculty, graduate teaching assistants, and teams (faculty/ staff/ students) who have made notable contributions to integrating innovative technology in teaching and learning in a course or in a significant technology-enriched project. All graduate students and faculty are eligible for the award. If you know of someone who has done outstanding technology-enriched teaching and learning in 2013, or if you know of a group of individuals who have contributed to a significant technology-enriched project, please complete the online nomination form by Dec 6, 2013. Self-nominations are also welcome. For more information and to access the online nomination form, visit http://tlos.vt.edu/xcaliber_awards/.

8. CALL FOR GRAD DIVERSITY SCHOLAR NOMINATIONS – 3rd posting
Diversity scholars are graduate students who specialize in and advocate for the awareness, knowledge, and skills associated with diversity and inclusion. To learn more about the program, visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate_school/diversity/diversityscholars.html. Nominations are due by December 10, 2013 at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1378238446124. Contact Dannette Beane with questions at dannette@vt.edu.

9. SIGN UP FOR LUNCH WITH UNIVERSITY ADMINS:  DEC 9
Over the course of the academic year the graduate representative to the Board of Visitors, Nick Warrington, hosts luncheons that bring graduate students and university administration together to have some dialog around graduate student needs/issues and the vision for Virginia Tech. In attendance at the luncheon are: President Steger, the provost, VP/dean of graduate education, and VP for student affairs. The final luncheon for this semester will be held on Monday, Dec 9. If you are interested in attending, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382473967355.

10. DEANS FORUM ON GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT SURVEY – 1st posting
The Deans’ Forum on Global Engagement will be held March 25–27, 2014. Because this overlaps with the GSA’s Research Symposium on March 26, the Deans’ Forum organizing committee is looking to partner with the GSA by providing a parallel session focused on international careers. Organizers of the forum invite you to complete a short survey regarding your potential interest in a parallel session; your input will help guide the planning of the program. Access the survey at: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8HvS9KdeUJIGsER. For questions or feedback, contact: Kim Lester at kimml61@vt.edu.

11. RESEARCH SUBJECTS NEEDED FOR TRIP, FALL AND CATCH STUDY – 1st posting
Graduate student researchers are conducting a study to investigate tripping during normal walking while carrying a tool, and the subsequent fall. The study will take approximately 2 hours and will involve walking while carrying a load and a randomly induced trip. Separately, participants will fall onto a padded mat while their movements are recorded with motion tracking cameras. Finally, subjects will fall a short distance onto a hard surface to study how people catch themselves. Preferred qualifications are 35-60 years old, BMI >25, and able to carry a 40lb tool in hands. Additional participants outside of the parameters will also be accepted as space allows. Exclusion criteria are any chronic wrist, elbow, or shoulder injuries or any injuries to the wrist, elbow, or shoulder in the past year. Participants will be compensated $10 per hour. The protocols in this study have been approved by the VT IRB (13-505). If you are interested, please contact Peter Fino, 559 Whittemore Hall, fino@vt.edu.

12. SURVEY ON RELATION BETWEEN TRAFFIC CONTROL TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL IMPACTS – 1st posting
You are invited to complete a short survey about the relation between traffic control technology (e.g., traffic light) and social impacts (e.g., the effect on fulfilling your needs, the effect on fulfilling your rights, etc.). The information will be used for research purpose only, to help researchers determine social perspectives for designing control technology for self-driving vehicles. The survey should take you approximately 7 minutes and is available https://docs.google.com/forms/ d/1iQY_ Y1DaU9PHhC8chehn6N4S81KQRMr6DF 2OBOtPEXk/viewform. Your participation in this study is completely voluntary, and there are no more than minimal risks associated with participation. Your survey responses will be anonymous and confidential. Participants must be at least 18. If you have questions, contact Milos at 540-553-5949 or via email milosm@vt.edu.

13. MCPS SCHOOL LUNCH SURVEY FOR PARENTS OF K-5 CHILDREN – 2nd posting
If you are a parent of a child who attends public elementary school (pre-K through 5th grade) in Montgomery County, researchers are interested in your opinions about school lunches and packed lunches and how they affect your decision to participate in the National School Lunch Program. Complete the following short on-line survey at:  http://tinyurl.com/MCPSlunch, and you will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift-card to Target or Wal-Mart.  For questions/comments please contact Alisha Farris at alisha@vt.edu or 501-358-9264. 

14. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON MOTHERS AND CHILDREN – 2nd posting
Are you a mother who sometimes worries or has fears? Do you have a child between 7 and 12 years of age? An ongoing 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.

15. VT CREW TEAM LOOKING FOR COACHES – 3rd posting
The Virginia Tech Crew Team is looking for dedicated and passionate individuals as coaches who are willing to coach a group of highly motivated students in Spring 2014.  Rowing or coxing experience is required, coaching experience is preferred but not required.  Contact virginiatechcrewteam@gmail.com for additional information.

16. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PARTICIPANTS NEEDED TO COMPLETE SURVEY _ 3rd posting
International students are needed to complete a survey to help a graduate student collect data for a class assignment. The survey should take no more than 8-10 minutes of your time. The survey is about eating habits of international students in the U.S. compared to their eating habits in their country of origin. Complete the survey here: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382990524428. If you have questions, contact Christopher Plum, cplum004@vt.edu.

17. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR COUPLES, TALK AND TECHNOLOGY STUDY – 3rd posting
You are invited to participate in a study to investigate and explore how people talk with their partners about things that matter to them. Researchers will ask you and your partner to talk about something you disagree about, in one of several technological conditions. The study takes two hours to complete. The available time slots are every weekday, one session 3:00-5:00pm and another 5:30-7:30pm. If interested, email Samantha Yglesias at ygles07@vt.edu for more information, to request any of the available slots, or to request a different time slot. The study takes place in McBryde 133. Participating couples will be compensated $20.00 per person ($40.00 per couple).

18. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR FOCUS GROUP ON EATING HABITS – 3rd posting
Participants are sought for a focus group (Photovoice) to help researchers learn more about you and your family’s eating habits. Participants must attend one introduction meeting and three focus group discussions. You will take pictures of your weekly eating experiences using your cell phone camera or a camera that researchers could provide. Each focus group meeting should take between 60-90 minutes. Lunch will be provided. Participants will receive a total of $50 in a Target gift card for participating in and completing the study. Must be 18+, work part- or full-time, be a non-student, and have one child between the ages of 3-5. For more information or to sign up, please contact Lauren Kennedy (kennedy0@vt.edu) or (540)808-5358.

19. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING STUDY – 3rd posting
The study is about physical demands associated with panelized wall handling. Participants will be asked to perform different types of manual material handling tasks (e.g., lift, lower, carry), during which measurements of body motions and muscle activities will be obtained. The study includes 1 preliminary and 1 data collection session. The data collection session will last about ~4 hours. The compensation will be $10 per hour and plus $10 after completion. If interested in participating, contact Sunwook Kim at sunwook@vt.edu, 540-557-7763.

20. CHINESE AND INDIAN PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DECISION MOTIVATIONS STUDY- 3rd posting
Are you an international student studying abroad or completing your degree at Virginia Tech? Were there specific motivations that affected your decision?  Researchers are interested in why Chinese and Indian students decide to attend Virginia Tech. The study consists of a 5-10 minute online survey where one (1) participant will be randomly selected to receive a $10 iTunes Card.  The online survey is available at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5cAJdXfY6utIwTz. If you have any questions regarding the questionnaire, please contact one of the co-researchers, Meghan Beardsley, at cinemeg2@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

GLC GAME NIGHT WITH CUPCAKES
Tuesday, Dec 3, 8:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
This is going to be a night of fun, games, more fun, and more games. If none of those appeal to you, then there will be cupcakes too. Come ready to make some friends, play games, and eat cupcakes. If you think you’ll be able to stop by, please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1385092153597 to help organizers estimate food amounts.

0.  THANKSGIVING BREAK BUSINESS HOURS:
The GLC is closed to the public during the break, but graduate students may access it with their Hokie Passports. The Graduate School (and its main entry doors facing Squires) will be open as follows:

• Mon, Nov 25: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Tue, Nov 26: 8:00am-5:00pm
• Wed, Nov 27: 8:00am-12:00 noon

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 10/28
– Career Services walk-in advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
– Cook Counseling walk-in services: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room – year round!
– Graduate School business hours: M,Tu,Th,F: 8:00am-5:00pm; W: 9:30am-5:00pm
– Writing Center walk-in assistance:  Thursdays 2-5pm, GLC Room D (additional hours available in the library)

2. NOVEMBER SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT: DR. RAFAEL DAVALOS
Tuesday, Nov 19, 12:00-1:00pm, Brush Mountain A, Squires Student Center
Learn about one of the top 7 NASA certified technological breakthroughs of ’07 from Dr. Rafael Davalos as he presents on the topic of irreversible electroporation (IRE) for the treatment of brain cancer. IRE therapy uses small (1-2mm) surgical probes to deliver low-energy microsecond pulses for approximately 1 minute. These pulses permanently destabilize the lipid bilayers of the targeted tissue (tumor) thereby killing the cells. Free food will be provided. Sponsored by the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society at VT.

3. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP AVAILABLE
Tuesday, Nov 19, 7:00pm, VT Psychological Services Ctr, 3110 Prices Fork Rd
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? Please join a free monthly support group. Group members will learn more about anxiety disorders and OCD, hear success stories from those who have worked to overcome their anxiety and OCD, and receive support in an informal setting. Family members are also welcome. If you have questions or would like more information, contact the Psychological Services Center at 231-6914, visit www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc, or email doctoral student Brenna Maddox at bmaddox7@vt.edu.

4. WHAT THE GRADUATE SCHOOL LOOKS FOR WHEN YOUR ETD IS REVIEWED
Wednesday, Nov 20, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room F
If you are in the writing phase of your ETD, then come to this session! Graduate School Staff will discuss what they are looking at when reviewing your ETD. Following the presentation, students may have the ETDs reviewed. Bring a flash drive, laptop and /or paper copy of the ETD for a review in room 120 GLC. If you have any questions, please contact Gwen Ewing at  ewinggf@vt.edu.

5. GRADUATION 101 SERIES: What the Graduate School looks for IN YOUR ETD
Thursday, Nov 21, 1:00pm, Meeting Number: 644 676 310
The Graduate School hosts monthly Graduation 101 Webinars. Webinar participants will need a computer with Internet access, microphone and speakers to fully participate. This week’s topic: What the Graduate School Looks for When We Review your ETD.  Join:  https://virginiatech.webex.com/virginiatech/j.php?ED=254486252&UID=0&RT=MiMxMQ%3D%3D. For questions, contact Marija Telbis-Forster mtelbisf@vt.edu.

6. GLC CAFÉ: PEANUT BRITTLE THURSDAY!
Thursday, Nov 14, 3:30-5:00pm GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Celebrate the arrival of fresh Virginia peanuts (through the VT Agronomy Club) with peanut brittle, raw and roasted peanuts.

7. SHORT STAT COURSES BY LISA THIS FALL: REGRESSION METHODS
Thursday, Nov 21, 5:00-7:00pm, GLC Room G
The Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and learn more. More information: www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

8. START-UP CLASS FOR STUDENTS AND STUDENT TEAMS – 1st posting
The StartUp Class is a semester-long course for teams of students who are interested in learning to become technology leaders and innovators through a structured curriculum that focuses on the development of a business model through customer discovery and assessment of product market fit. Teams will receive structured mentoring and have the opportunity to connect to professionals and fellow entrepreneurs.  This is not a lecture class; participants work on or form their own start up idea. This is a 3-credit elective for those who want to learn more about their own startup/business, open to any major and both grad and ugrad students. Offered Wednesdays, 4-7pm at the new incubator space in Collegiate Square (below the Next Door Bakery). If you are interested, contact startup@vt.edu.

9. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL NATIONAL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 1st posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda (AEL) was founded in 1990 specifically to honor academic excellence and leadership among graduate students.  The mission of AEL is to: confer distinction for high achievement; promote leadership development and scholarship; encourage intellectual development; enrich the intellectual environment of graduate education institutions; and encourage high standards of ethical behavior. Qualifications for membership are: (1) academic achievement in the top 35th percentile of the member’s degree program; (2) successful completion of 12 graduate credits and active enrollment in a degree program; (3) demonstrated leadership through involvement in on-campus or off-campus activities while a graduate student. Download application form at http://www.ael.graduateschool.vt.edu/application-process/ and email it to Marwa Abdel Latif at mka3@vt.edu. Submit your completed application by Jan 20.

10. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR XCALIBER AWARD – 1st posting
The XCaliber award recognizes faculty, graduate teaching assistants, and teams (faculty/ staff/ students) who have made notable contributions to integrating innovative technology in teaching and learning in a course or in a significant technology-enriched project. All graduate students and faculty are eligible for the award. If you know of someone who has done outstanding technology-enriched teaching and learning in 2013, or if you know of a group of individuals who have contributed to a significant technology-enriched project, please complete the online nomination form by Dec 6, 2013. Self-nominations are also welcome. For more information and to access the online nomination form, visit http://tlos.vt.edu/xcaliber_awards/.

11. CALL FOR GRAD DIVERSITY SCHOLAR NOMINATIONS – 2nd posting
Diversity scholars are graduate students who specialize in and advocate for the awareness, knowledge, and skills associated with diversity and inclusion. To learn more about the program, visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate_school/diversity/diversityscholars.html. Nominations are due by December 10, 2013 at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1378238446124. Contact Dannette Beane with questions at dannette@vt.edu.

12. SIGN UP FOR LUNCH WITH UNIVERSITY ADMINS:  DEC 9
Over the course of the academic year the graduate representative to the Board of Visitors, Nick Warrington, hosts luncheons that bring graduate students and university administration together to have some dialog around graduate student needs/issues and the vision for Virginia Tech. In attendance at the luncheon are: President Steger, the provost, VP/dean of graduate education, and VP for student affairs. The final luncheon for this semester will be held on Monday, Dec 9. If you are interested in attending, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382473967355.

13. GSA CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CHAIR AND VOLUNTEERS – 3rd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly is calling for a Research Symposium Chair and volunteers for the Graduate Research Symposium, an annual event of long history during Graduate Education week in March.  The symposium chair will work closely with the GSA vp of programs and the president and will have a team to help.  If you would like to help and be a part of a fun and interesting exhibition of Virginia Tech’s current research, please contact Mordecai Harvey, VP of programs at mordie02@vt.edu.

14. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDING PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 3rd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) will be accepting applications November 18-22 for the 2013 fall cycle. GRDP provides monetary support to graduate students for research associated with their thesis or dissertation. The maximum awards 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.  Applications are due by Nov 22, 2013. Email Amanda Nelson (GSAGRDPChair@gmail.com) with any questions.

15. CSE PROJECT CALL FOR ART WORK AND PHOTOGRAPHY: WORLD WITHOUT FOSSIL FUELS – 3rd posting
All students are invited to submit art work and photography with the theme of “World without fossil fuels” as part of a citizen scholar experience project. The perspective might be alternatives to substitute fossil fuels and the consequences. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per participant. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submit any kind of art work along with the following information: title of your art, authors’ name, contact information (email and phone number) by 5:00 PM Tuesday, Dec 5.  Artwork will be displayed for public viewing. Please direct any questions to Bahareh Estejab, bestejab@vt.edu or text 865-771-4097.

16. CALL FOR 6-WORD STORIES: WORLD WITHOUT FOSSIL FUELS – 3rd posting
As part of a citizen scholar experience project, all students are invited to submit six-word stories with the theme of “World without fossil fuels.” The perspective might be alternatives to substitute fossil fuels and the consequences. Submissions are limited to three stories per participant. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submit your story by email to bestejab@vt.edu along with the following information: authors’ name, contact information (email or phone number) by 5:00 PM Tuesday, Dec 5. Stories might be displayed for public viewing. Please direct any questions to Bahareh Estejab (bestejab@vt.edu or text 865-771-4097).

17. MCPS SCHOOL LUNCH SURVEY FOR PARENTS OF K-5 CHILDREN – 1st posting
If you are a parent of a child who attends public elementary school (pre-K through 5th grade) in Montgomery County, researchers are interested in your opinions about school lunches and packed lunches and how they affect your decision to participate in the National School Lunch Program. Complete the following short on-line survey at:  http://tinyurl.com/MCPSlunch, and you will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift-card to Target or Wal-Mart.  For questions/comments please contact Alisha Farris at alisha@vt.edu or 501-358-9264. 

18. 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? An ongoing 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.

19. VT CREW TEAM LOOKING FOR COACHES – 2nd posting
The Virginia Tech Crew Team is looking for dedicated and passionate individuals as coaches who are willing to coach a group of highly motivated students in Spring 2014.  Rowing or coxing experience is required, coaching experience is preferred but not required.  Contact virginiatechcrewteam@gmail.com for additional information.

20. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PARTICIPANTS NEEDED TO COMPLETE SURVEY _ 2nd posting
International students are needed to complete a survey to help a graduate student collect data for a class assignment. The survey should take no more than 8-10 minutes of your time. The survey is about eating habits of international students in the U.S. compared to their eating habits in their country of origin. Complete the survey here: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382990524428. If you have questions, contact Christopher Plum, cplum004@vt.edu.

21. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR COUPLES, TALK AND TECHNOLOGY STUDY – 2nd posting
You are invited to participate in a study to investigate and explore how people talk with their partners about things that matter to them. Researchers will ask you and your partner to talk about something you disagree about, in one of several technological conditions. The study takes two hours to complete. The available time slots are every weekday, one session 3:00-5:00pm and another 5:30-7:30pm. If interested, email Samantha Yglesias at ygles07@vt.edu for more information, to request any of the available slots, or to request a different time slot. The study takes place in McBryde 133. Participating couples will be compensated $20.00 per person ($40.00 per couple).

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR FOCUS GROUP ON EATING HABITS – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for a focus group (Photovoice) to help researchers learn more about you and your family’s eating habits. Participants must attend one introduction meeting and three focus group discussions. You will take pictures of your weekly eating experiences using your cell phone camera or a camera that researchers could provide. Each focus group meeting should take between 60-90 minutes. Lunch will be provided. Participants will receive a total of $50 in a Target gift card for participating in and completing the study. Must be 18+, work part- or full-time, be a non-student, and have one child between the ages of 3-5. For more information or to sign up, please contact Lauren Kennedy (kennedy0@vt.edu) or (540)808-5358.

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING STUDY – 2nd posting
The study is about physical demands associated with panelized wall handling. Participants will be asked to perform different types of manual material handling tasks (e.g., lift, lower, carry), during which measurements of body motions and muscle activities will be obtained. The study includes 1 preliminary and 1 data collection session. The data collection session will last about ~4 hours. The compensation will be $10 per hour and plus $10 after completion. If interested in participating, contact Sunwook Kim at sunwook@vt.edu, 540-557-7763.

24. CHINESE AND INDIAN PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DECISION MOTIVATIONS STUDY-2nd posting
Are you an international student studying abroad or completing your degree at Virginia Tech? Were there specific motivations that affected your decision?  Researchers are interested in why Chinese and Indian students decide to attend Virginia Tech. The study consists of a 5-10 minute online survey where one (1) participant will be randomly selected to receive a $10 iTunes Card.  The online survey is available at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5cAJdXfY6utIwTz. If you have any questions regarding the questionnaire, please contact one of the co-researchers, Meghan Beardsley, at cinemeg2@vt.edu.

25. CHILDREN (4-4.5 YEARS OLD) SOUGHT FOR ACTION-CONTROL STUDY – 3rd posting
The C.A.P. Lab in the VT Psychology Department is conducting a new study focusing on 4-4.5 year-old children’s developing ability to control their actions during games like Simon Says. Participating requires one visit, during which researchers play some fun word- and movement-games with the children.  In addition to these games, researchers are interested in collecting information about the physiological components of these abilities.  The visit should last about 1-2 hours.  Compensation: $10 Target gift card for parents and a small toy for children; also can provide child care for siblings during the visit.  If you are interested in this study, you may contact Amanda Watson by phone (research lab—231-2320) or by e-mail (watsonaj@vt.edu). (VT IRB: 13-440)

26. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE STRENGTH TRAINING STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are sought for a research study looking at the viability of safely and effectively teaching strength training with free weights using online methods. Participants will be asked to record themselves doing 2 assigned free-weight exercises, followed by an online module teaching the movements with practice, and again record themselves doing the movement. There are 2 surveys to collect demographic data and participants’ experiences with the instruction. Total time commitment is 4-5 hours and participants will be entered into a lottery to win prizes from VT Recsports. There is a slight risk of physical injury. However, participants will be briefed during the consent process and throughout the instruction on how to avoid injury. Must have access to gym equipment and a video recording device; must be 18 or older; have no medical conditions that could be made worse by physical exercise. All levels of fitness and weight lifting experience are needed. If interested please contact Rebekah Brook, kiwi1@vt.edu.

27. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NIGHTSCAPE PREFERENCE AND FEAR STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a survey on nighttime landscape preference among the VT community using eye-tracking goggles. The purpose of this study is to analyze people’s eye movements that will help designers and scholars develop design guidelines for various types of nightscapes. Participant will be looking around at different locations on campus at night wearing eye tracking goggles to visually rate landscape preferences, then respond to a few questions about their preferences and fears of nightscapes. The survey should not take more than 30 minutes and participants will receive $5.00 (Starbucks Card). Requirements: male or female, 18 or older, and not wear glasses. If interested, please contact Youngeun Kang at aoii2@vt.edu for further details.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

T-BREAK CHILI LUNCHEON – SIGN UP NOW!
Monday, Nov 25, 11:30-1:00 in the GLC Multipurpose Room
You are not alone! Join others who don’t get to leave for Thanksgiving break and enjoy some wholesome home-cooked food (meat and vegetarian options) and conversation. The menu includes chili, rice and corn bread, brownies and banana pudding, brought to you by your friendly and caring GLC- and Grad-School staff.  Please register by Friday morning, Nov 22, to help us estimate how much we need to cook, at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1384783338781.

PIE DAY AT CRANWELL INTL CENTER
Tuesday, Nov 26,  12:00-2:00pm, Cranwell International Center
Pie Day is an annual tradition at the Cranwell International Center that fosters a feeling of community, friendship, and full stomachs! Join Cranwell staff for a meal of delicious pies, both savory and sweet. This event is open to everyone, with a special invitation to the international community for an opportunity to experience traditional foods and experiences of the Thanksgiving holiday. Contact Karen Howe at khowe@vt.edu with any questions.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 10/28
– Career Services walk-in advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
– Cook Counseling walk-in services: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
– GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursdays, Reading Room – year round!
– Graduate School business hours: M,Tu,Th,F: 8:00am-5:00pm; W: 9:30am-5:00pm
– Writing Center walk-in assistance:  Thursdays 2-5pm, GLC Room D (additional hours available in the library)

2. SHORT STAT COURSES BY LISA THIS FALL: NONPARAMETRIC METHODS FEATURING THE BOOTSTRAP
Tuesday, Nov 12
Nonparametric methods form an important core of statistical techniques and are typically used when data do not meet parametric assumptions. This short course, we will cover the basic philosophy of nonparametric statistics, what they’re all about, why we need them, and in what situations they are useful. Participants will discuss specific nonparametric tests, such as the rank-sum and signed-rank test (alternatives to t-test*), the Kruskal-Wallis test (alternative to ANOVA*), and the Spearman rank correlation (an alternative to the Pearson correlation) and review examples of how to implement these methods in R. The course will feature both lecture and computer laboratory elements. The Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and learn more. Remaining Fall 2013 schedule:

Thursday, November 21: Regression Methods;
More information: www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

3. YOGA OPEN HOUSE FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
Tuesday, Nov 12, 5:00-8:00pm, In Balance  Yoga, Blacksburg
Enjoy free food and enter a free raffle at In Balance Yoga’s open house. Every person in attendance will get a coupon for a free class. Yoga is especially beneficial for graduate students who tend to have high stress levels. All graduate students are invited to the open house and can get a FREE class credit and refreshments just for coming.

4. SLEEP BETTER TECHNIQUES
Wednesday, Nov 13, 12:00-1:15pm, Room C
Everybody wants to sleep better, but very few people understand why they aren’t sleeping well or how to fix it. Stress is one of the main health problems reported by VT students and directly results in poor sleeping habits. This workshop focuses on recent research on sleep and its impact on health, and offers techniques that you can begin practicing immediately after the workshop. Come learn more so you can sleep better! Sponsored by the Virginia Tech HEAT (Health Education & Awareness Team).

5. DEVELOP YOUR ETD; STANDARD VS MANUSCRIPT FORMAT
Wednesday, Nov 13, 2:00-3:00pm, GLC Room F
If you are in the writing phase of your ETD, then come to this session! Graduate School Staff will discuss two specific ETD formatting styles. Following the presentation, students may have the ETDs reviewed. Students may bring a flash drive, laptop and /or paper copy of the ETD for a review in room 120 GLC. If you have any questions, please contact Gwen Ewing at ewinggf@vt.edu

6. LITTLE HOKIES DONATE AND SWAP
Wednesday, Nov 13, 3:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
This program is designed to help VT graduate students and their families by providing gently used baby and children’s items (for 0-10 years old) free. Donated items will be displayed in the Graduate Life Center Multipurpose Room. Bags will be provided at entry, and graduate students and families can fill their bag with as many items as they may need. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly, Graduate School and Women’s Center. Have questions? Contact Kelsey Harrington, program coordinator at the Women’s Center, at 540-231-7806.

7. ENTREPRENEURIAL WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Nov 13, 4:30-7:30pm, Room G
Presented by VT KnowledgeWorks, this innovative session is for VT grad students who are interested in learning what it takes to start a business.  VT KnowledgeWorks encourages and enables creative entrepreneurship world-wide. If you have any questions, contact Ashley Frances, ashleyf@vt.edu.

8. BELMASRY – ARABIC CONVERSATION TABLE
Wednesday, Nov 13, 6:30-8:30pm, North Lounge (Room 300), 3rd Floor Johnston Student Center
Come out and chat about Egypt and practice your Arabic at this Egyptian-themed Arabic conversation table. Light Egyptian refreshments and tea will be served. Sponsored by Egypt Friends.

9. DISSERTATION WRITING WORK GROUP
Thursday, Nov 14, 9:30am, Women’s Center
Designed for women graduate students and post-docs who are working on a dissertation or thesis, preparing for a preliminary, or writing an article. Join for support, motivation, goal-setting, accountability, and a place to simply unwind during the research and writing phase. All are welcome! Additional fall semester dates: 12/5. For more information, contact Anna LoMascolo at alomasco@vt.edu.

10. GLC CAFÉ: NOTHING SPECIAL
Thursday, Nov 14, 3:30-5:00pm GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues.

11. DISTRESSED STUDENT/SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING FOR GRADS
Friday, Nov 15, 9:00am-12:00pm, Lavery Hall, SSD conference room
This session is offered by a certified trainer to help graduate students who teach or work with undergraduate students. The training is called Gatekeeper Intervention, and participants will learn about college student suicide, working with distressed students in a gatekeeper, support, and referral role, not a clinical counseling role. Resources at Virginia Tech, as well as Title IX reporting requirements will be discussed.  Participants will receive a certificate.  Light refreshments will be served. Students should rsvp directly to the instructor, Robyn Hudson, at robynhud@vt.edu.   

12. GRADUATE STUDENT MOVIE NIGHT
Friday Nov 15, 6pm, GLC Student Lounge
Join other graduate students to watch Monsters University and enjoy light refreshments (popcorn, pretzels, chips and soda) this Friday. Sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Please register by filling out this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1384133282901

13. ISA MOVIE NIGHT
Saturday Nov 16, 6:30pm, Haymarket Theater, Squires Student Center
The Indian Student Association (ISA) is happy to bring one of the 2013 blockbuster movies from Bollywood, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, to Virginia Tech. Bollywood represents a big part of the Indian culture and ISA would like to share it with members of the VT community. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy this romantic comedy film. The movie is 2 hours and 40 minutes long.

14. CALL FOR GRAD DIVERSITY SCHOLAR NOMINATIONS
Diversity scholars are graduate students who specialize in and advocate for the awareness, knowledge, and skills associated with diversity and inclusion. To learn more about the program, visit http://graduateschool.vt.edu/graduate_school/diversity/diversityscholars.html. Nominations are due by December 10, 2013 at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1378238446124. Contact Dannette Beane with questions at dannette@vt.edu.

15. DONATIONS SOUGHT FOR “LITTLE HOKIES DONATE AND SWAP“ – 1st posting
The Women’s Center, Graduate School, and Graduate Student Assembly are hosting the second annual "Little Hokies Donate and Swap." This program is designed to benefit VT graduate students and their families. Donations of gently used baby and children’s items (for 0-10 years old) can be dropped off at the front desks of the Graduate Life Center or Women’s Center from Nov 1-13 noon. On Nov 13, 3:00-7:00pm, donated items will be displayed in the Graduate Life Center Multipurpose Room. Bags will be provided at entry, and graduate students and families can fill their bag with as many items as they may need. Have questions? Contact Kelsey Harrington, program coordinator at the Women’s Center, at 540-231-7806.

16. SIGN UP FOR LUNCH WITH UNIVERSITY ADMINS:  DEC 9
Over the course of the academic year the graduate representative to the Board of Visitors, Nick Warrington, hosts luncheons that bring graduate students and university administration together to have some dialog around graduate student needs/issues and the vision for Virginia Tech. In attendance at the luncheon are: President Steger, the provost, VP/dean of graduate education, and VP for student affairs. The final luncheon for this semester will be held on Monday, Dec 9. If you are interested in attending, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382473967355.

17. GSA CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CHAIR AND VOLUNTEERS – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly is calling for a Research Symposium Chair and volunteers for the Graduate Research Symposium, an annual event of long history during Graduate Education week in March.  The symposium chair will work closely with the GSA vp of programs and the president and will have a team to help.  If you would like to help and be a part of a fun and interesting exhibition of Virginia Tech’s current research, please contact Mordecai Harvey, VP of programs at mordie02@vt.edu.

18. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDING PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) will be accepting applications November 18-22 for the 2013 fall cycle. GRDP provides monetary support to graduate students for research associated with their thesis or dissertation. The maximum awards 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.  Applications are due by Nov 22, 2013. Email Amanda Nelson (GSAGRDPChair@gmail.com) with any questions.

19. CSE PROJECT CALL FOR ART WORK AND PHOTOGRAPHY: WORLD WITHOUT FOSSIL FUELS – 2nd posting
All students are invited to submit art work and photography with the theme of “World without fossil fuels” as part of a citizen scholar experience project. The perspective might be alternatives to substitute fossil fuels and the consequences. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per participant. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submit any kind of art work along with the following information: title of your art, authors’ name, contact information (email and phone number) by 5:00 PM Tuesday, Dec 5.  Artwork will be displayed for public viewing. Please direct any questions to Bahareh Estejab, bestejab@vt.edu or text 865-771-4097.

20. CALL FOR 6-WORD STORIES: WORLD WITHOUT FOSSIL FUELS – 2nd posting
As part of a citizen scholar experience project, all students are invited to submit six-word stories with the theme of “World without fossil fuels.” The perspective might be alternatives to substitute fossil fuels and the consequences. Submissions are limited to three stories per participant. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submit your story by email to bestejab@vt.edu along with the following information: authors’ name, contact information (email or phone number) by 5:00 PM Tuesday, Dec 5. Stories might be displayed for public viewing. Please direct any questions to Bahareh Estejab (bestejab@vt.edu or text 865-771-4097).

21. VT CREW TEAM LOOKING FOR COACHES – 1st posting
The Virginia Tech Crew Team is looking for dedicated and passionate individuals as coaches who are willing to coach a group of highly motivated students in Spring 2014.  Rowing or coxing experience is required, coaching experience is preferred but not required.  Contact virginiatechcrewteam@gmail.com for additional information.

22. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PARTICIPANTS NEEDED TO COMPLETE SURVEY _ 1^ST posting
International students are needed to complete a survey to help a graduate student collect data for a class assignment. The survey should take no more than 8-10 minutes of your time. It is about eating habits of international students compared to their country of origin. Complete the survey here: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382990524428 If you have questions, contact Christopher Plum, cplum004@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR COUPLES, TALK AND TECHNOLOGY STUDY – 1st posting
You are invited to participate in a study to investigate and explore how people talk with their partners about things that matter to them. Researchers will ask you and your partner to talk about something you disagree about, in one of several technological conditions. The study takes two hours to complete. The available time slots are every weekday, one session 3:00-5:00pm and another 5:30-7:30pm. If interested, email Samantha Yglesias at ygles07@vt.edu for more information, to request any of the available slots, or to request a different time slot. The study takes place in McBryde 133. Participating couples will be compensated $20.00 per person ($40.00 per couple).

24. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR FOCUS GROUP ON EATING HABITS – 1^st posting
Participants are sought for a focus group (Photovoice) to help researchers learn more about you and your family’s eating habits. Participants must attend one introduction meeting and three focus group discussions. You will take pictures of your weekly eating experiences using your cell phone camera or a camera that researchers could provide. Each focus group meeting should take between 60-90 minutes. Lunch will be provided. Participants will receive a total of $50 in a Target gift card for participating in and completing the study. Must be 18+, work part- or full-time, be a non-student, and have one child between the ages of 3-5. For more information or to sign up, please contact Lauren Kennedy (kennedy0@vt.edu) or (540)808-5358.

25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR MANUAL MATERIAL HANDLING STUDY – 1st posting
The study is about physical demands associated with panelized wall handling. Participants will be asked to perform different types of manual material handling tasks (e.g., lift, lower, carry), during which measurements of body motions and muscle activities will be obtained. The study includes 1 preliminary and 1 data collection session. The data collection session will last about ~4 hours. The compensation will be $10 per hour and plus $10 after completion. If interested in participating, contact Sunwook Kim at sunwook@vt.edu, 540-557-7763.

26. CHINESE AND INDIAN PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR DECISION MOTIVATIONS STUDY-1st posting
Are you an international student studying abroad or completing your degree at Virginia Tech? Were there specific motivations that affected your decision?  Researchers are interested in why Chinese and Indian students decide to attend Virginia Tech. The study consists of a 5-10 minute online survey where one (1) participant will be randomly selected to receive a $10 iTunes Card.  The online survey is available at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_5cAJdXfY6utIwTz. If you have any questions regarding the questionnaire, please contact one of the co-researchers, Meghan Beardsley, at cinemeg2@vt.edu. 

27. CHILDREN (4-4.5 YEARS OLD) SOUGHT FOR ACTION-CONTROL STUDY – 2nd posting
The C.A.P. Lab in the VT Psychology Department is conducting a new study focusing on 4-4.5 year-old children’s developing ability to control their actions during games like Simon Says. Participating requires one visit, during which researchers play some fun word- and movement-games with the children.  In addition to these games, researchers are interested in collecting information about the physiological components of these abilities.  The visit should last about 1-2 hours.  Compensation: $10 Target gift card for parents and a small toy for children; also can provide child care for siblings during the visit.  If you are interested in this study, you may contact Amanda Watson by phone (research lab—231-2320) or by e-mail (watsonaj@vt.edu). (VT IRB: 13-440)

28. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE STRENGTH TRAINING STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for a research study looking at the viability of safely and effectively teaching strength training with free weights using online methods. Participants will be asked to record themselves doing 2 assigned free-weight exercises, followed by an online module teaching the movements with practice, and again record themselves doing the movement. There are 2 surveys to collect demographic data and participants’ experiences with the instruction. Total time commitment is 4-5 hours and participants will be entered into a lottery to win prizes from VT Recsports. There is a slight risk of physical injury. However, participants will be briefed during the consent process and throughout the instruction on how to avoid injury. Must have access to gym equipment and a video recording device; must be 18 or older; have no medical conditions that could be made worse by physical exercise. All levels of fitness and weight lifting experience are needed. If interested please contact Rebekah Brook, kiwi1@vt.edu.

29. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NIGHTSCAPE PREFERENCE AND FEAR STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a survey on nighttime landscape preference among the VT community using eye-tracking goggles. The purpose of this study is to analyze people’s eye movements that will help designers and scholars develop design guidelines for various types of nightscapes. Participant will be looking around at different locations on campus at night wearing eye tracking goggles to visually rate landscape preferences, then respond to a few questions about their preferences and fears of nightscapes. The survey should not take more than 30 minutes and participants will receive $5.00 (Starbucks Card). Requirements: male or female, 18 or older, and not wear glasses. If interested, please contact Youngeun Kang at aoii2@vt.edu for further details.

30. GRADUATE STUDENTS INVITED TO SERVE AS GLOBAL AMBASSADORS – 3rd  posting
The Global Ambassadors program is an exciting and engaging leadership development program for current VT students seeking to develop their global leadership skills. Global Ambassadors are charged with welcoming new international students to the VT community and continuing meaningful interactions with students and the community throughout the academic year. Cranwell International Center is seeking currently enrolled student (ugrad or grad, domestic or intl) who have been at VT for at least one semester. International students, returning Study Abroad students, and students with a strong interest in learning about the world are encouraged to apply. Apply online by Tue Nov 12 by 5:00pm at:  https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/32257. Optional interest meetings at Cranwell: Wednesday, Nov 6, 12:00pm. Reference form due by Friday, Nov 22 by 5:00pm. After the application there will be interviews, and required training and retreats for selected students. Learn more at http://www.international.vt.edu/programs_and_activities/global_ambassadors/index.html.

31. MENTORING PROGRAM SEEKS MENTORS FROM ALL FIELDS – 3rd posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields. This program allows graduate students to mentor undergraduate students considering graduate school. Undergrads and grads 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. Mentoring can help build leadership skills and provide an experience to discuss with future employers. Mentors must attend one program orientation meeting the second week of the Spring semester, after which they will coordinate mentoring activities independently with their undergraduate mentees. GUMP is sponsored by the Graduate Student Association (GSA). If you have any questions, please contact gump@vt.edu. All interested graduate students should fill out the application at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1380140661981 .

UPCOMING EVENTS:

—NOVEMBER SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT – Dr. Rafael V. Davalos
Tuesday, Nov 19, 12-1pm, Brush Mountain A, Squires Student Center
Learn about one of the top 7 NASA certified technological breakthroughs of ’07 from Dr. Rafael Davalos as he presents on the topic of irreversible electroporation (IRE) for the treatment of brain cancer. IRE therapy uses small (1-2mm) surgical probes to deliver low-energy microsecond pulses for approximately 1 minute. These pulses permanently destabilize the lipid bilayers of the targeted tissue (tumor) thereby killing the cells. 

Free food will be provided. Sponsored by the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society at VT.

—WHAT THE GRADUATE SCHOOL LOOKS FOR WHEN WE REVIEW YOUR ETD
Wednesday, Nov 20, 2-3pm, GLC Room F
If you are in the writing phase of your ETD, then come to this session! Graduate School Staff will discuss what we look at when reviewing your ETD . Following the presentation, students may have the ETDs reviewed. Students may bring a flash drive, laptop and /or paper copy of the ETD for a review in room 120 GLC. If you have any questions, please contact Gwen Ewing at ewinggf@vt.edu

—SHORT STAT COURSES BY LISA THIS FALL
The Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and learn more. Remaining Fall 2013 schedule:
Thursday, November 21: Regression Methods;
More information: www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

—DATA MANAGEMENT BOOTCAMP FOR GRAD STUDENTS: REGISTER NOW!
Wednesday-Friday, Jan 8-19, 2014
Only 20 seats available, so register now by sending an email to alop@vt.edu with your name and department. This workshop is sponsored by five Virginia institutions for students who want to learn more about data management issues and best practices. This collaborative event will feature experts from across the state and will provide an opportunity for local, hands-on practical experience on the third day. Data management is an important topic for researchers and scholars across domains, especially as funding agencies increasingly require submission of data management plans with grant proposals. Topics will include: understanding research data, organizing data, file formats and transformation, documentation and metadata, storage and security, data protection, rights and access, and preservation, sharing and licensing. For full details visit: http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/datamanagementbootcamp/.

1. WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 10/28

• – Career Services walk-in advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
• Cook Counseling walk-in services: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursdays, Reading Room – year round!
• Graduate School business hours: M,Tu,Th,F: 8:00am-5:00pm; W: 9:30am-5:00pm
• Writing Center walk-in assistance:  Thursdays 2-5pm, GLC Room D (additional hours available in the library)

 2. SHORT STAT COURSES BY LISA THIS FALL: INTRO TO JMP;*
Monday & Tuesday, November 4 & 5
JMP is a user-friendly statistical software package that puts advanced analytic capabilities within an easy-to-use graphical interface. In JMP a great number of sophisticated analyses are readily available without the need to write computer code, and this course provides guidance for new users of JMP. The course starts with basic data manipulation and moves to some advanced features, including importing data, interactive GUI, descriptive statistics such as numerical summary, inferential statistics such as t-tests, ANOVA, and regression. The Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and learn more. Remaining Fall 2013 schedule:

• Tuesday, November 12: Nonparametric methods featuring the bootstrap;
• Thursday, November 21: Regression Methods;

*Two sessions of the same course to accommodate more attendees. Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! More information: www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

3. VT, PEACE CORPS AND USAID: HOW HOKIES ARE FEEDING THE FUTURE
Tuesday, Nov 5, 6:00-8:00pm, Squires Commonwealth Ballroom
Virginia Tech is at the forefront in addressing global hunger. Come hear about cutting-edge research and careers in the field. Immediately following the presentation, Peace Corps will host a pizza reception. Learn how you can be involved in the fight against global hunger! Contact Rachael at peacecorps@vt.edu with any questions about this event.

4. PEACE CORPS GENERAL INTEREST MEETING
Wednesday, Nov 6, 7:30-8:30pm, GLC Room F
Peace Corps can take you to exotic locations, help you learn new skills and give you a chance to be of service in a developing nation. All are invited to learn about the six program areas, find out how to qualify for an overseas assignment, and hear what it’s really like. Stay connected at Peace Corps at Virginia Tech on Facebook, or contact Rachael at peacecorps@vt.edu

5. PHI BETA KAPPA VISITING SCHOLAR: INTERSECTIONS OF SCIENCE, PUBLIC HEALTH AND ART
Wednesday, Nov 6 and Thursday, Nov 7, Various times and locations
Timothy Bromage, professor of biomaterials and biomimetics at NYU College of Dentistry, will present three sessions open to the public. Professor Bromage’s research focuses on bone and tooth biology, with an emphasis on its translation to environmental and evolutionary studies. The session details are as follows: “What Cells will do for Global Climate Change” – Wednesday, Nov 6, 7pm, Virginia Bioinformatics Institute Auditorium; “Avoid Infection, and While You’re At It, Have a Demographic Transition” – Thursday Nov 7, 12-1pm, Shanks Hall Room 370-380; “What is Art?” – Thursday, Nov 7, 4:00-6:00pm, Squires Student Center Rooms 341/345. These sessions are co-sponsored by the VT Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology, the Everyday Imaging Series, and Departments of STS and Philosophy.

 6. GLC CAFÉ: NOTHING SPECIAL
Thursday, Nov 7, 3:30-5:00pm GLC Reading Room
The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues.

7. CEDARS OF LEBABNON SHOWCASE
Friday, Nov 8,  4:00-7:00pm, Williamsburg Room, Squires
Attend this Lebanese cultural showcase to get a taste of Lebanese culture through music, food, facts, and dance! This event is free and open to the public. If you have any questions about this event, contact grad student Yara El Haddad at yara125@vt.edu.

8. GAME NIGHT WITH QGP&A
Friday, Nov 8, 6:30pm-9pm, GLC Room B
Join Queer Grads, Professionals & Allies for a night of board/card games in the GLC.  Bring your favorite game to share!  For questions or more information contact Darren at dmaczka@vt.edu.

9. SIGN UP FOR LUNCH WITH UNIVERSITY ADMINS: NOV 8 and DEC 9
Over the course of the academic year the graduate representative to the Board of Visitors, Nick Warrington, hosts luncheons that bring graduate students and university administration together to have some dialog around graduate student needs/issues and the vision for Virginia Tech. In attendance at the luncheon are: President Steger, the provost, VP/dean of graduate education, and VP for student affairs. The final two luncheons for this semester will be held on Friday, Nov 8 and Monday, Dec 9. If you are interested in attending either luncheon, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1382473967355.

10. GSA CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CHAIR AND VOLUNTEERS – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly is calling for a Research Symposium Chair and volunteers for the Graduate Research Symposium, an annual event of long history during Graduate Education week in March.  The symposium chair will work closely with the GSA vp of programs and the president and will have a team to help.  If you would like to help and be a part of a fun and interesting exhibition of Virginia Tech’s current research, please contact Mordecai Harvey, VP of programs at mordie02@vt.edu.

11. GRADUATE RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FUNDING PROGRAM NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly’s Graduate Research Development Program (GRDP) will be accepting applications November 18-22 for the 2013 fall cycle. GRDP provides monetary support to graduate students for research associated with their thesis or dissertation. The maximum awards 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.  Applications are due by Nov 22, 2013. Email Amanda Nelson (GSAGRDPChair@gmail.com) with any questions.

12. SPRING GRAD COURSES – SIGN UP NOW!
The following grad courses will be available in Spring 2014:

• GRAD 5014 – Academic Integrity & Plagiarism
• GRAD 5104 – Preparing the Future Professoriate
• GRAD 5114 – Pedagogical Practices in Contemporary Contexts
• GRAD 5304 – Career Development for the Future Professional
• GRAD 5404 – Research International Context – (base course for Graduate Certificate in International Research Abroad, http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/programs/certificates.html#IRA)
• GRAD 5984 – Special Study – Communicating Science

For more details on these courses visit: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/academics/class_schedules/grad_courses/index.html

13. CALL FOR ART WORK AND PHOTOGRAPHY: WORLD WITHOUT FOSSIL FUELS – 1st posting
All students are invited to submit art work and photography with the theme of “World without fossil fuels.” The perspective might be alternatives to substitute fossil fuels and the consequences. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per participant. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submit any kind of art work along with the following information: title of your art, authors’ name, contact information (email and phone number) by 5:00 PM Tuesday, Dec 5.  Artwork will be displayed for public viewing. Please direct any questions to Bahareh Estejab, bestejab@vt.edu or text 865-771-4097.

14. CALL FOR 6-WORD STORIES: WORLD WITHOUT FOSSIL FUELS – 1st posting
All students are invited to submit six-word stories with the theme of “World without fossil fuels.” The perspective might be alternatives to substitute fossil fuels and the consequences. Submissions are limited to three stories per participant. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submit your story by email to bestejab@vt.edu along with the following information: authors’ name, contact information (email or phone number) by 5:00 PM Tuesday, Dec 5. Stories might be displayed for public viewing. Please direct any questions to Bahareh Estejab (bestejab@vt.edu or text 865-771-4097).

15. AEL CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – 3rd posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda graduate leadership honor society at VT is calling for nominations of  graduate students. Faculty, staff and colleagues are encouraged to nominate graduate students who have shown dedication to serving their graduate community. The requirements are: (1) Graduate student has completed 12 credits (2) has at least 3.80 GPA or be in top 35% of the department. AEL board members will request the designated personnel in the Graduate School to check the nominees’s GPA in order to extend an official invitation to the nominee. Nominators should provide the name of the nominee and a short paragraph describing the graduate student services at http://goo.gl/fWgfyO.

16. AEL LEADERSHIP SEMINAR – REQUEST FOR IDEAS – 3rd posting
AEL board members are in the process of planning the AEL leadership seminars for the spring semester, and would like to shape the seminars to address the needs of the graduate students in their field. This short survey allows you to share your ideas, challenges and needs regarding your career and leadership skills:  http://goo.gl/MVQLNI. Your input will guide AEL board members in their planning. If you have any questions, please contact Marwa Abdel Latif at marlatif04@gmail.com.

17. CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR OPEN LAB AT VT CENTER FOR THE ARTS – 3rd posting
The Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech invites professional artists or graduate art students living in Virginia to submit proposals for OpenLab, the first in a new series of exhibitions celebrating the innovative work of Virginia artists. The inaugural summer 2014 OpenLab sequence will include two solo exhibitions, each featuring an inventive, three-dimensional sculptural installation in one of the galleries. Room environments, sound, and multimedia installations will all be considered. Apply online at  https://tickets.artscenter.vt.edu/Online/openlabsummer.

18. CHILDREN (4-4.5 YEARS OLD) SOUGHT FOR ACTION-CONTROL STUDY – 1st posting
The C.A.P. Lab in the VT Psychology Department is conducting a new study focusing on 4-4.5 year-old children’s developing ability to control their actions during games like Simon Says. Participating requires one visit, during which researchers play some fun word- and movement-games with the children.  In addition to these games, researchers are interested in collecting information about the physiological components of these abilities.  The visit should last about 1-2 hours.  Compensation: $10 Target gift card for parents and a small toy for children; also can provide child care for siblings during the visit.  If you are interested in this study, you may contact Amanda Watson by phone (research lab—231-2320) or by e-mail (watsonaj@vt.edu). (VT IRB: 13-440)

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR ONLINE STRENGTH TRAINING STUDY
Participants are sought for a research study looking at the viability of safely and effectively teaching strength training with free weights using online methods. Participants will be asked to record themselves doing 2 assigned free-weight exercises, followed by an online module teaching the movements with practice, and again record themselves doing the movement. There are 2 surveys to collect demographic data and participants’ experiences with the instruction. Total time commitment is 4-5 hours and participants will be entered into a lottery to win prizes from VT Recsports. There is a slight risk of physical injury. However, participants will be briefed during the consent process and throughout the instruction on how to avoid injury. Must have access to gym equipment and a video recording device; must be 18 or older; have no medical conditions that could be made worse by physical exercise. All levels of fitness and weight lifting experience are needed. If interested please contact Rebekah Brook, kiwi1@vt.edu.

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NIGHTSCAPE PREFERENCE AND FEAR STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for a survey on nighttime landscape preference among the VT community using eye-tracking goggles. The purpose of this study is to analyze people’s eye movements that will help designers and scholars develop design guidelines for various types of nightscapes. Participant will be looking around at different locations on campus at night wearing eye tracking goggles to visually rate landscape preferences, then respond to a few questions about their preferences and fears of nightscapes. The survey should not take more than 30 minutes and participants will receive $5.00 (Starbucks Card). Requirements: male or female, 18 or older, and not wear glasses. If interested, please contact Youngeun Kang at aoii2@vt.edu for further details.

22. GRADUATE STUDENTS INVITED TO SERVE AS GLOBAL AMBASSADORS – 2nd posting
The Global Ambassadors program is an exciting and engaging leadership development program for current VT students seeking to develop their global leadership skills. Global Ambassadors are charged with welcoming new international students to the VT community and continuing meaningful interactions with students and the community throughout the academic year. Cranwell International Center is seeking currently enrolled student (ugrad or grad, domestic or intl) who have been at VT for at least one semester. International students, returning Study Abroad students, and students with a strong interest in learning about the world are encouraged to apply. Apply online by Tue Nov 12 by 5:00pm at:  https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/form/start/32257. Optional interest meetings at Cranwell: Wednesday, Nov 6, 12:00pm. Reference form due by Friday, Nov 22 by 5:00pm. After the application there will be interviews, and required training and retreats for selected students. Learn more at http://www.international.vt.edu/programs_and_activities/global_ambassadors/index.html.

22. MENTORING PROGRAM SEEKS MENTORS FROM ALL FIELDS – 2nd posting
The Graduate–Undergraduate Mentorship Program (GUMP) is seeking mentors from all fields. This program allows graduate students to mentor undergraduate students considering graduate school. Undergrads and grads 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. Mentoring can help build leadership skills and provide an experience to discuss with future employers. Mentors must attend one program orientation meeting the second week of the Spring semester, after which they will coordinate mentoring activities independently with their undergraduate mentees. GUMP is sponsored by the Graduate Student Association (GSA). If you have any questions, please contact gump@vt.edu. All interested graduate students should fill out the application at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1380140661981 .

23. TANDEM LANGUAGE PROGRAM SEEKS PARTICIPANTS – 3rd posting
Native speakers of German are particularly encouraged to sign up for the “Tandem Program” at Virginia Tech, which matches international students with American language students.  There is currently a surplus of domestic learners of German looking for language partners; if your native language is German and you already speak perfect English, then please consider signing up to help an American learn your language! The Tandem Program, which strengthens participants’ language skills while promoting closer bonds between international and domestic students, offers opportunities in all foreign languages taught at Virginia Tech: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish.  There is no deadline to sign up, so feel free to fill out the form at any time: http://virginiatechtandem.blogspot.com/.

24. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR FALL RISK WITH LOW-BACK FATIGUE STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a study assessing the effect of localized muscle fatigue on slip and fall risks. The study consists of 2 experimental sessions (each lasting approximately 2-3 hours). Participants will be compensated $10/hour with a $20 bonus after completing all sessions. Requirements: male or female, age 35-64, no recent history of musculoskeletal disorders. If interested, please contact Rahul Soangra at locomotionVT@gmail.com for further details.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STAT COURSES BY LISA THIS FALL
The Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) is providing a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. See www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and learn more. Remaining Fall 2013 schedule:

• Tuesday, November 12: Nonparametric methods featuring the bootstrap;
• Thursday, November 21: Regression Methods;

*Two sessions of the same course to accommodate more attendees. Follow LISA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Statistical.collaboration) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/LISA_VT) to be the first to know about LISA events! More information: www.lisa.stat.vt.edu.

TECHNIQUES FOR SLEEPING BETTER
Wednesday, Nov 13, 12:00-1:15pm, Room C
Everybody wants to sleep better, but very few people understand why they aren’t sleeping well or how to fix it. Stress is one of the main health problems reported by VT students and directly results in poor sleeping habits. This workshop focuses on recent research on sleep and its impact on health, and offers techniques that you can begin practicing immediately after the workshop. Come learn more so you can sleep better! Sponsored by the Virginia Tech HEAT (Health Education & Awareness Team).

ENTREPRENEURIAL WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Nov 13, 4:30-7:30pm, Room G
Presented by VT KnowledgeWorks, this innovative session is for VT grad students who are interested in learning what it takes to start a business.  VT KnowledgeWorks encourages and enables creative entrepreneurship world-wide. If you have any questions, contact Ashley Frances, ashleyf@vt.edu.

DATA MANAGEMENT BOOTCAMP FOR GRAD STUDENTS: REGISTER NOW!
Wednesday-Friday, Jan 8-19, 2014
Only 20 seats available, so register now by sending an email to alop@vt.edu with your name and department. This workshop is sponsored by five Virginia institutions for students who want to learn more about data management issues and best practices. This collaborative event will feature experts from across the state and will provide an opportunity for local, hands-on practical experience on the third day. Data management is an important topic for researchers and scholars across domains, especially as funding agencies increasingly require submission of data management plans with grant proposals. Topics will include: understanding research data, organizing data, file formats and transformation, documentation and metadata, storage and security, data protection, rights and access, and preservation, sharing and licensing. For full details visit: http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/datamanagementbootcamp/.