January 27 – February 2, 2014

1.  WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • 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 4:30-7:30, Room D (additional hours in the Library)

2. RESUME 101 FOR INTL STUDENTS
Tuesday, January 28, 4:00 – 5:00pm, Cranwell International Center Learn how to write a resume that highlights your international experience. No registration required.  Students with questions should email Katie Steuer at ksteuer@vt.edu.

3. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP AVAILABLE
Tuesday, Jan 28, 7:00pm, VT Psychological Services Center (3110 Prices Fork Road) Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the last Tuesday of every month. Join the group to learn more about anxiety disorders and OCD, hear success stories from those who have worked to overcome their anxiety and OCD, and receive support in an informal setting. Family members and significant others are also welcome. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact the Psychological Services Center at 231-6914, visit http://www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc, or email doctoral student Brenna Maddox at bmaddox7@vt.edu.

4. CAREER FAIR PREP FOR INTL STUDENTS
Wednesday, Jan 29, 4:00-5:00pm, Cranwell International Center Learn the basics to be successful at a career fair including: how to research companies beforehand, what to wear, what to do when you arrive at a career fair, creating an elevator pitch and using it, and how to follow up with companies you meet.  No registration required.  Students with questions should email Katie Steuer at ksteuer@vt.edu.

5. RESUME WRITING WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Jan 29, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room G
Having a well-polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview. Start early to be ready for fall career fairs and on-campus interviews. Sponsored by Career Services. Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.

6. INTERVARSITY GRAD CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Wednesdays, 6:30pm, GLC Room B InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship meets weekly for a free dinner and interactive Bible discussion. All are welcome! Learn more: http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/.

7. HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAININGS
Thursday, Jan 30, 11:00am-12:00pm, GLC Room D The Graduate Honor System is recruiting student and faculty volunteers to serve as panelists who, once trained, hear and decide on cases of academic and research integrity. Interested individuals need to attend a single one-hour training session and are then able to serve on panels as their schedule allows. If you are interested, contact Jordan Booker, doctoral student and chief justice of the GHS, at ghs@vt.edu. Other scheduled training sessions:

  • Friday, Jan 31, 1:00-2:00pm, GLC Room D

8. LUNCH WITH THE DEAN – REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday, Jan 30, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
Meet Graduate School Dean Kr. Karen DePauw as well as several graduate student leaders at this free lunch and learn about the Dean’s latest plans for graduate education. Share your perspective in a casual, intimate setting. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1389723744595.

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

10. GLOBAL GAMES NIGHT
Thursday, Jan 30, 6:00-8:00pm, Squires Student Center BreakZONE
The Gamma Omega chapter of the Phi Beta Delta international honor society is hosting a ‘Global Games Night.’ Light refreshments will be served. Join this free social event to meet international students, VT students returning from overseas, and anyone interested in international education and opportunities. For more information contact Betty Watts (bettyw@vt.edu; 231-6452).

11. THEORIES OF THE STATE IN THE SHI’ITE LAW
Thursday, Jan 30, 6:00-8:00pm, 108 Surge Building
The Iranian Society at VT invites you to this discussion lead by Dr. Mohsen Kadivar. Please contact grad student Nahid Farhady Ghalaty at farhady@vt.edu if you have any questions about this event.

12. WHAT IS NON-VIOLENCE AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Friday, Jan 31, 3:00pm, 209 Norris
Dr. Marian Mollin will be facilitating a discussion on what is non-violence and why it matters. Questions and ideas from participants will be encouraged, so bring questions to share! Contact grad student Lucy Adams at lucya@vt.edu if you have any questions. 

13. INCLUSIVE PRAXIS SESSION: A PEDAGOGY OF COMMUNITY
Friday, Jan 31, 3:00pm, 116 Burruss Hall (VT Engage classroom) Anthony Kwame Harrison teaches undergraduate classes on African American studies, cultural anthropology, and sociology.  His courses typically bring together diverse groups of students who spend the semester examining and discussing issues of racial and cultural difference. Dr. Harrison will share the philosophies and best-practices through which he strives to build community in the classroom.  Dr. Harrison believes developing a sense of community across differences allows him to better present and generate (co-create) course content that resonates with students beyond both the classroom and the 15-week semester. Sign up to participate at: http://www.cider.vt.edu

14. MLK-DAY CELEBRATION DINNER
Friday, Jan 31, 6:00pm, Wesley Foundation (209 W Roanoke St)
Participate in this dinner and discuss over food the civil rights struggle  in the world today. Please register if you are planning to attend: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1386688879211. Contact grad student Lucy Adams at lucya@vt.edu if you have any questions. 

15. LAST DAY TO REGISTER FOR ONE-CREDIT ONLINE ETHICS COURSE
The Graduate School is offering a new online course this spring on Academic Integrity and Plagiarism. Taught by Dr. Karen DePauw and Jen Henderson, this course will explore our understanding of academic integrity, research conduct, plagiarism, and different disciplinary practices. Sign up for GRAD 5014 if you are interested! (CRN 19677)

16. LAST DAY TO REGISTER FOR ONE-CREDIT INTRO TO R PROGRAMMING
R is a powerful, versatile, and free statistical programming language, which has become increasingly popular among industrial and academic data analysts. This introductory course assumes no previous coding experiences in R or any other language. The intended audience for this course includes students who want to gain basic exposure to R. Instructor: Denisa Anca Olteanu Roberts. STAT 4094, CRN 20252, Monday 4:00-4:50pm, 209 Hutcheson Hall. Prerequisites: STAT 3615. This course requires a basic background in statistics. Previous experience with basic computer programming is ideal but is not assumed. More at (www.stat.vt.edu/news/Articles/2013-12-19-Intro-to-R.html) and register via Hokie Spa.

17. ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUPS
Are you interested in learning more about American culture? Or developing new friendships with people from around the world? Or would you like an opportunity to share about your home country’s traditions and stories? If so, join an English Conversation Group! Each group focuses on a different topic including: American culture, folklore, travel, cross-cultural business communication, women only groups, and more. Registration is not required and the groups are open to everyone.  For a full schedule visit http://www.international.vt.edu/programs_and_activities/english_conversation_groups/index.html or contact the Cranwell International Center at international@vt.edu.

18. CALL FOR POSTER ABSTRACTS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH DAY Submission deadline extended to Wed, Jan 29. Want to present your research to fellow students? Want to practice showcasing your research to a broad audience? Submit an abstract for the IDR Day poster session! All grad and ugrad students are eligible to enter. Prizes will be given. Notification date: Feb 8, 2014. IDR Day: Feb 27(2 poster sessions in the afternoon). For more information and submission guidelines: http://www.idrsociety.org/idr-day-2014/call-for-abstracts/. To submit an abstract, please fill out the form at:  https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1386293281414.

19. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS OPEN UNTIL JAN 31
A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination by your advisor/department for any of the following awards that will be given out during the Graduate School’s annual awards banquet on March 27, 2014:

  • Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
  • Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
  • Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
  • Graduate Student Service Excellence
  • Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
  • Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/awards.

20. APPLY NOW FOR BOV GRAD REPRESENTATIVE POSITION  – 1st posting Applications for the graduate representative for the Board of Visitors (BOV) are accepted now. Download the application at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php. The graduate student representative to the BOV serves as a liaison between graduate students and the board. The position provides a great leadership experience, as well as an opportunity to learn about the university’s governance structure and decision-making process. Please consider the position or encourage deserving peers to apply.  Contact Nick Warrington at nick.warrington@vt.edu with any questions.

21. INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH HONOR SOCIETY ACCEPTING APPS NOW – 1st posting
Iota Delta Rho, the Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society, is accepting applications for membership from Monday, Jan 27 through midnight on Sunday, Feb 17.  IDR was founded at Virginia Tech in 2011 by graduate students promoting interdisciplinary cooperation and research at Virginia Tech and all other colleges and universities. Two levels of membership: full and associate.   Membership application and information about IDR: http://www.idrsociety.org/membership/application/.  Direct all questions to Tammy Parece at tammyep@vt.edu.

22. VT KNOWLEDGEWORKS STUDENT BUSINESS CONCEPT CHALLENGE – 2nd posting
Competition is open to all full-time registered VT students. Average team age must be 27 or less. The competition encourages students to develop their entrepreneurial ideas, enhance understanding of requirements for a successful business venture, and showcase the creativity of students at Virginia Tech. Must register by Feb 14, 2014. Learn more at http://www.vtknowledgeworks.com/echallenge/studentcompetition2014.

23. JEAN B. DUERR MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – 1st posting
This is a scholarship for women who plan to attend, or are already enrolled in, an accredited college or university for the entire 2014-2015 academic year. Awards of $2000 will be given to those applicants who best demonstrate academic achievement and community service. – See more at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/financial/funding/students/duerr.

24. WAGE POSITION OPEN IN DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS HR – 3rd posting Graduate student applications are invited for a student wage position as HR Training Event Assistant in the Division of Student Affairs. Assistant will help with coordination of HR training sessions and other events, and with data entry, research, correspondence, reports, and other clerical duties. 10-15 hrs/wk, approx.. $10/hr. Must have some office/administrative experience and customer service skills. If interested or need more information, email letter of interest and resume to Greg Beecher, gbeecher@vt.edu.

25. VT LGBT JOURNAL, THE INTERLOPER, SEEKING WRITERS, EDITORS, STAFF  – 2nd posting
The Interloper’s focus is to provide advocates of the queer community a platform to express their otherwise overlooked opinions and perspectives. With this focus in mind, The Interloper is determined to present progressive content through a queer lens by challenging what is often deemed “socially acceptable.” For the Spring 2014 semester, the journal is looking for progressive, sassy, talented staffers for the following positions: (a) Editorial: features editor, writers (for articles, creative pieces, etc.), copy editors, fact checkers (b) Visuals: art director, photography director, illustrators/artists, photographers. To apply for a position, send 2-3 samples of your writing, photography, and/or art to matthew@vt.edu by Friday, Jan 24. Include a paragraph detailing the position you are applying for and why you think you will be a good fit for The Interloper.

26. 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.

27. RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INTERFACE EVALUATION STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for an interface evaluation study (about Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) guidance application, IRB number: 13-236).  The study will last about 1 hour and take place in 530 Whittemore Hall. Compensation $10 for 1 hr. Requirements: Must be age 18-49; and must have used a touch-screen smartphone before. Your response will help in designing a MAR application that better fits your needs. If you’re interested, please contact Na Mi by phone at 540-577-9153 or by e-mail na8@vt.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

WOMEN’S CENTER OPEN HOUSE & ART EXHIBIT
Wednesday, Feb 5, 4:00-6:00pm, 206 Washington Street Join Women’s Center staff and students as they launch their 20th anniversary celebration. Enjoy conversation, refreshments and the beautiful work of local artist Diane Relf. The Women’s Center supports graduate students through many programs, including kids’ night out, working mom’s support group, dissertation writing work group, and more http://www.womenscenter.vt.edu/Outreach/Support.html.

WELCOME SOCIAL
Friday, Feb 7, 4:00-7:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room Enjoy food, games, and great conversation at this welcome social sponsored by the GLC Fellows. Learn about several graduate student organizations on campus and how you can be involved. Meat and vegetarian food options will be available. Open to all graduate students and their families.

‘I LOVE BLACK HISTORY MONTH’ SPEED NETWORKING LUNCH
Monday, Feb 10, 12:00-1:00pm, Multipurpose Room All graduate students, faculty, and staff are invited to this luncheon hosted by the Black Graduate Student Organization and the Graduate School. Please RSVP by Thursday, February 6th at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1389381294334

WHAT HAVE I GOTTEN MYSELF INTO?
Tuesday, Feb 11, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
If you’re a new (or returning) graduate student who has asked yourself this question, the Graduate School wants you to know that you are not alone! Meet fellow graduate students, new and returning, to talk about graduate school as an exciting-but possibly overwhelming-life adventure. There will be pizza! Complete this survey if you plan to attend: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1390838381481

BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR OF MOSS CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Wednesday, Feb 12, 1:00-2:00pm, meet at Grand Lobby of Center for the Arts
This is an exclusive opportunity for graduate students to tour the newly opened Moss Center for the Arts here at Virginia Tech. Look behind the scenes and feel the inspiration! Space is limited and the tour is free. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1389211704974.

CAREER FAIR PREPARATION
Wednesday, Feb 12, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room G
Learn how to present yourself to an employer and what to ask at a job fair. Sponsored by Career Services. Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.

January 21-26, 2014

1.  WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC

  • 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 4:30-7:30, Room D (additional hours in the Library)

 2. INTERVARSITY GRAD CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
Wednesdays, 6:30pm, GLC Room B
InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship meets weekly for a free dinner and interactive Bible discussion. All are welcome! Learn more: http://gcfvt.wordpress.com/.

3. QUEER GRADS, PROFESSIONALS AND ALLIES (QGPA) TOWN HALL MTG
Wednesday, Jan 22, 8:00pm, GLC Room C
All are welcome. Stop by to ask questions, share information and experiences, and meet new people. Email qgpavt@gmail.com with any questions.

4. GLC CAFÉ: FEATURING GRAD BOV REP
Thursday, Jan 23, 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. This week’s special: Nick Warrington, grad rep to the Board of Visitors will be available to chat and answer questions. Bring your own mug if you can.

5. CROSS-CULTURAL BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
Thursday, Jan 23, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room C
A six week highly participatory course in which students from various cultures meet and discuss the social skills and non-verbal behaviors from their respective cultures. This group is taught by Nico Wood.  Sponsored by the Cranwell International Center. For more information email Karen Howe at khowe@vt.edu.

6. FREE DINNER AND GAME NIGHT
Friday, Jan 24, 6:30-9:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Join fellow grad students for an evening of free food and fun! There will be a variety of card games, board games, video games and more. All are welcome, and you can come anytime. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

7. REGISTER FOR ONE-CREDIT ONLINE ETHICS COURSE
The Graduate School is offering a new online course this spring on Academic Integrity and Plagiarism. Taught by Dr. Karen DePauw and Jen Henderson, this course will explore our understanding of academic integrity, research conduct, plagiarism, and different disciplinary practices. Sign up for GRAD 5014 if you are interested! (CRN 19677)

8. REGISTER NOW FOR ONE-CREDIT INTRO TO R PROGRAMMING
R is a powerful, versatile, and free statistical programming language, which has become increasingly popular among industrial and academic data analysts. This introductory course assumes no previous coding experiences in R or any other language. The intended audience for this course includes students who want to gain basic exposure to R. Instructor: Denisa Anca Olteanu Roberts. STAT 4094, CRN 20252, Monday 4:00-4:50pm, 209 Hutcheson Hall. Prerequisites: STAT 3615. This course requires a basic background in statistics. Previous experience with basic computer programming is ideal but is not assumed. More at (www.stat.vt.edu/news/Articles/2013-12-19-Intro-to-R.html) and register via Hokie Spa.

9. REGISTER FOR GRAD COURSES FOR SPRING – 3rd posting
The Graduate School offers a number of interdisciplinary courses that broaden graduate students’ perspective on various subjects. Register now for a course on:

  • Career development for the future professional (GRAD 5304)
  • Research in international contexts (GRAD 5404)

or other courses. See full list and descriptions at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/node/5857.

10. ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUPS
Are you interested in learning more about American culture? Or developing new friendships with people from around the world? Or would you like an opportunity to share about your home country’s traditions and stories? If so, join an English Conversation Group! Each group focuses on a different topic including: American culture, folklore, travel, cross-cultural business communication, women only groups, and more. Registration is not required and the groups are open to everyone.  For a full schedule visit http://www.international.vt.edu/programs_and_activities/english_conversation_groups/index.html or contact the Cranwell International Center at international@vt.edu.

11. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR FOREST RESOURCES/ENVIRON CONSERVATION GRAD SYMPOSIUM – 3rd posting
Held on Apr 1, 2014, the 6th annual forest resource and environmental conservation research symposium brings together graduate students from VT and other colleges and universities to communicate within and across disciplines and to build relationships with future colleagues and potential employers. Accommodations will be provided for presenters at the Inn at Virginia Tech. Abstracts are invited in the following areas: Forest Biometrics and Geomatics; Forest Ecology and Silviculture; Forest Economics and Policy; Urban Forestry; Forest Operations and Business; Forest Soils and Hydrology; Human Dimensions; Forest Genetics and Biotechnology. Submission deadline: Midnight, Jan 10, 2014. Abstracts can be up to 250 words and should include objectives and methods and will be judged based on relevancy to the symposium. Visit http://frec.vt.edu/grs/ for further information. Abstracts can be submitted through the website or at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/K7BKJ5H. Contact Beth Avera at bavera@vt.edu with any questions.

12. REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2014 is now open.  Graduate students on an assistantship must either pay their comprehensive fees or enroll for payroll deductions by the payment deadline set by the Bursar’s Office.  To enroll in payroll deductions, login to Hokie SPA, choose University Account Information menu, and click on Graduate Students on Assistantship, enroll in Payroll Deduction. You must enroll in payroll deduction each semester in which you wish to take advantage of this opportunity. 

13. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS OPEN UNTIL JAN 31
A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination by your advisor/department for any of the following awards that will be given out during the Graduate School’s annual awards banquet on March 27, 2014:

  • Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
  • Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
  • Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
  • Graduate Student Service Excellence
  • Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
  • Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/awards.

14. APPLICATIONS SOON TO OPEN FOR BOV GRAD REPRESENTATIVE POSITION
Applications for the graduate representative for the Board of Visitors (BOV) will be accepted starting next week. The graduate student representative to the BOV serves as a liaison between graduate students and the board. The position provides a great leadership experience, as well as an opportunity to learn about the university’s governance structure and decision-making process. Nick Warrington, the current BOV grad rep will be at the GLC café on Thursday, Jan 23, to answer any questions. Please consider the position or encourage deserving peers to apply.  Contact Nick Warrington at nick.warrington@vt.edu with any questions.

15. VT KNOWLEDGEWORKS STUDENT BUSINESS CONCEPT CHALLENGE
Competition is open to all full-time registered VT students. Average team age must be 27 or less. The competition encourages students to develop their entrepreneurial ideas, enhance understanding of requirements for a successful business venture, and showcase the creativity of students at Virginia Tech. Must register by Feb 14, 2014. Learn more at http://www.vtknowledgeworks.com/echallenge/studentcompetition2014.

16. WAGE POSITION OPEN IN DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS HR – 2nd posting
Graduate student applications are invited for a student wage position as HR Training Event Assistant in the Division of Student Affairs. Assistant will help with coordination of HR training sessions and other events, and with data entry, research, correspondence, reports, and other clerical duties. 10-15 hrs/wk, approx.. $10/hr. Must have some office/administrative experience and customer service skills. If interested or need more information, email letter of interest and resume to Greg Beecher, gbeecher@vt.edu.

17. VT LGBT JOURNAL, THE INTERLOPER, SEEKING WRITERS, EDITORS, STAFF  – 1st posting
The Interloper’s focus is to provide advocates of the queer community a platform to express their otherwise overlooked opinions and perspectives. With this focus in mind, The Interloper is determined to present progressive content through a queer lens by challenging what is often deemed “socially acceptable.” For the Spring 2014 semester, the journal is looking for progressive, sassy, talented staffers for the following positions: (a) Editorial: features editor, writers (for articles, creative pieces, etc.), copy editors, fact checkers (b) Visuals: art director, photography director, illustrators/artists, photographers. To apply for a position, send 2-3 samples of your writing, photography, and/or art to matthew@vt.edu by Friday, Jan 24. Include a paragraph detailing the position you are applying for and why you think you will be a good fit for The Interloper.

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. RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INTERFACE EVALUATION STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for an interface evaluation study (about Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) guidance application, IRB number: 13-236).  The study will last about 1 hour and take place in 530 Whittemore Hall. Compensation $10 for 1 hr. Requirements: Must be age 18-49; and must have used a touch-screen smartphone before. Your response will help in designing a MAR application that better fits your needs. If you’re interested, please contact Na Mi by phone at 540-577-9153 or by e-mail na8@vt.edu.

20. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY PROGRAM – 3rd posting
The Virginia Bioinformatics Institute, Virginia 4-H, and other members of the VT community are asking for volunteers to assist with logistics of the spring 2014 Kids’ Tech University program (http://kidstechuniversity.vbi.vt.edu/), which brings about 450 kids ages 9-12 to VT to spark their  interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM disciplines). Volunteers are needed on any or all of the following days: Jan 25, Feb 22, Mar 22, and Apr 5, 2014 from 9:00am to 4:00pm. In the morning, there will be an interactive session followed by Q & A, a lunch break, then hands-on activities. If you can only be there for a portion of the time please let organizers know. If interested in volunteering, fill out this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1381347633696. Contact KTU’s volunteer coordinator, Ms. Maria Laubenbacher, maria@vbi.vt.edu, with questions.

21. CALL FOR RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS FOR LIFESTYLE AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH STUDY – 3rd posting
Men and women 18-35 years old, who are sedentary or recreationally active are invited to participate in a cross-sectional study examining how lifestyle factors influence arterial health. 1-2 lab visits for a total of ~2 hours would be required. Measures include anthropometrics and body composition, surveys, a blood draw, and measurement of arterial health with an ultrasound and a small probe. Participants receive $50 upon study completion. E-mail Tanya (tanyamh@vt.edu) for more information.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAININGS
The Graduate Honor System is recruiting student and faculty volunteers to serve as panelists who, once trained, hear and decide on cases of academic and research integrity. Interested individuals need to attend a single one-hour training session and are then able to serve on panels as their schedule allows. If you are interested, contact Jordan Booker, doctoral student and chief justice of the GHS, at ghs@vt.edu. Scheduled training sessions:

  • Monday, Jan 27, 11:00am-12:00pm, GLC Room D
  • Thursday, Jan 30, 11:00am-12:00pm, GLC Room D
  • Friday, Jan 31, 1:00-2:00pm, GLC Room D

FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP AVAILABLE
Tuesday, Jan 28, 7:00pm, VT Psychological Services Center (3110 Prices Fork Road)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the last Tuesday of every month. Join the group to learn more about anxiety disorders and OCD, hear success stories from those who have worked to overcome their anxiety and OCD, and receive support in an informal setting. Family members and significant others are also welcome. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact the Psychological Services Center at 231-6914, visit http://www.psyc.vt.edu/outreach/psc, or email doctoral student Brenna Maddox at bmaddox7@vt.edu.

RESUME WRITING WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Jan 29, 5:30-6:30pm, GLC Room G
Having a well-polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview. Start early to be ready for fall career fairs and on-campus interviews. Sponsored by Career Services. Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.

LUNCH WITH THE DEAN – REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Thursday, Jan 30, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C
Meet Graduate School Dean Kr. Karen DePauw as well as several graduate student leaders at this free lunch and learn about the Dean’s latest plans for graduate education. Share your perspective in a casual, intimate setting. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1389723744595.

GLOBAL GAMES NIGHT
Thursday, Jan 30, 6:00-8:00pm, Squires Student Center BreakZONE
The Gamma Omega chapter of the Phi Beta Delta international honor society is hosting a ‘Global Games Night.’ Light refreshments will be served. Join this free social event to meet international students, VT students returning from overseas, and anyone interested in international education and opportunities. For more information contact Betty Watts (bettyw@vt.edu; 231-6452).

January 13-20, 2014

1.  WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
Our weekly services are on hiatus and will return when the spring semester begins on Jan 21. However, the GLC Café is still on on Thursdays 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room

2. GLC CAFE
Thursday, Jan 16, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Bring your own mug if you can.

3. NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION CAFÉ
Friday, Jan 17, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
Join new graduate students and enjoy free coffee, tea and snacks. Bring your own mug if you can!

4. REGISTER FOR GRAD COURSES FOR SPRING – 2nd posting
The Graduate School offers a number of interdisciplinary courses that broaden graduate students’ perspective on various subjects. Register now for a course on:

  • Academic integrity and plagiarism – online (GRAD 5014)
  • Career development for the future professional (GRAD 5304)
  • Research in international contexts (GRAD 5404)
  • or other courses.

See full list and descriptions at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/node/5857.

5. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR FOREST RESOURCES/ENVIRON CONSERVATION GRAD SYMPOSIUM – 2nd posting
Held on Apr 1, 2014, the 6th annual forest resource and environmental conservation research symposium brings together graduate students from VT and other colleges and universities to communicate within and across disciplines and to build relationships with future colleagues and potential employers. Accommodations will be provided for presenters at the Inn at Virginia Tech. Abstracts are invited in the following areas: Forest Biometrics and Geomatics; Forest Ecology and Silviculture; Forest Economics and Policy; Urban Forestry; Forest Operations and Business; Forest Soils and Hydrology; Human Dimensions; Forest Genetics and Biotechnology. Submission deadline: Midnight, Jan 10, 2014. Abstracts can be up to 250 words and should include objectives and methods and will be judged based on relevancy to the symposium. Visit http://frec.vt.edu/grs/ for further information. Abstracts can be submitted through the website or at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/K7BKJ5H. Contact Beth Avera at bavera@vt.edu with any questions.

6. REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS – 3rd posting
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2014 is now open.  Graduate students on an assistantship must either pay their comprehensive fees or enroll for payroll deductions by the payment deadline set by the Bursar’s Office.  To enroll in payroll deductions, login to Hokie SPA, choose University Account Information menu, and click on Graduate Students on Assistantship, enroll in Payroll Deduction. You must enroll in payroll deduction each semester in which you wish to take advantage of this opportunity. 

7. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS OPEN UNTIL JAN 31
A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination by your advisor/department for any of the following awards that will be given out during the Graduate School’s annual awards banquet on March 27, 2014:

  • Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
  • Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
  • Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
  • Graduate Student Service Excellence
  • Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
  • Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/awards.

8. WAGE POSITION OPEN IN DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS HR – 1st posting
Graduate student applications are invited for a student wage position as HR Training Event Assistant in the Division of Student Affairs. Assistant will help with coordination of HR training sessions and other events, and with data entry, research, correspondence, reports, and other clerical duties. 10-15 hrs/wk, approx.. $10/hr. Must have some office/administrative experience and customer service skills. If interested or need more information, email letter of interest and resume to Greg Beecher, gbeecher@vt.edu.

9. RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INTERFACE EVALUATION STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are needed for an interface evaluation study (about Mobile Augmented Reality (MAR) guidance application, IRB number: 13-236).  The study will last about 1 hour and take place in 530 Whittemore Hall. Compensation $10 for 1 hr. Requirements: Must be age 18-49; and must have used a touch-screen smartphone before. Your response will help in designing a MAR application that better fits your needs. If you’re interested, please contact Na Mi by phone at 540-577-9153 or by e-mail na8@vt.edu.

10. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY PROGRAM – 2nd posting
The Virginia Bioinformatics Institute, Virginia 4-H, and other members of the VT community are asking for volunteers to assist with logistics of the spring 2014 Kids’ Tech University program (http://kidstechuniversity.vbi.vt.edu/), which brings about 450 kids ages 9-12 to VT to spark their  interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM disciplines). Volunteers are needed on any or all of the following days: Jan 25, Feb 22, Mar 22, and Apr 5, 2014 from 9:00am to 4:00pm. In the morning, there will be an interactive session followed by Q & A, a lunch break, then hands-on activities. If you can only be there for a portion of the time please let organizers know. If interested in volunteering, fill out this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1381347633696. Contact KTU’s volunteer coordinator, Ms. Maria Laubenbacher, maria@vbi.vt.edu, with questions.

11. CALL FOR RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS FOR LIFESTYLE AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH STUDY – 2nd posting
Men and women 18-35 years old, who are sedentary or recreationally active are invited to participate in a cross-sectional study examining how lifestyle factors influence arterial health. 1-2 lab visits for a total of ~2 hours would be required. Measures include anthropometrics and body composition, surveys, a blood draw, and measurement of arterial health with an ultrasound and a small probe. Participants receive $50 upon study completion. E-mail Tanya (tanyamh@vt.edu) for more information.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

LUNCH WITH THE DEAN – REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Friday, Jan 24, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC Room C Meet Graduate School Dean Kr. Karen DePauw as well as several graduate student leaders at this free lunch and learn about the Dean’s latest plans for graduate education. Share your perspective in a casual, intimate setting. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1389213123668.

 

HONOR SYSTEM PANELIST TRAININGS

The Graduate Honor System is recruiting student and faculty volunteers to serve as panelists who, once trained, hear and decide on cases of academic and research integrity. Interested individuals need to attend a single one-hour training session and are then able to serve on panels as their schedule allows. If you are interested, contact Jordan Booker, doctoral student and chief justice of the GHS, at ghs@vt.edu. Scheduled training sessions:

– Monday, Jan 27, 11:00am-12:00pm, GLC Room D

– Thursday, Jan 30, 11:00am-12:00pm, GLC Room D

– Friday, Jan 31, 1:00-2:00pm, GLC Room D

January 6-12, 2014

1.  WEEKLY SERVICES IN THE GLC
Our weekly services are on hiatus and will return when the spring semester begins on Jan 21. However, the GLC Café is still on on Thursdays 3:30-5:00pm, Reading Room

2. GLC CAFE
Thursday, Jan 9, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room The GLC Café is offered throughout the year with free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate-student and Grad-School colleagues. Bring your own mug if you can. This week’s special: hot chocolate!

3. REGISTER FOR GRAD COURSES FOR SPRING – 1st posting
The Graduate School offers a number of interdisciplinary courses that broaden graduate students’ perspective on various subjects. Register now for a course on Academic integrity and plagiarism (GRAD 5014) Career development for the future professional (GRAD 5304) Research in international contexts (GRAD 5404) or other courses. See full list and descriptions at http://graduateschool.vt.edu/node/5857.

4. REGISTER FOR RAPE AGGRESSION DEFENSE SYSTEM COURSE – 1st posting Cranwell International Center and VT Police Department have partnered to offer a practical self-defense program taught by all female instructors. The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) System is a 12 hour course for women only and is a comprehensive course that includes both classroom and practical components. In the classroom you will learn important information about awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance. The practical component of the course teaches the basics of hands-on defense training. The RAD System is dedicated to teaching women defensive concepts and techniques against various type of assault, by utilizing easy, effective and proven self-defense/martial arts tactics. This class is taught over three days: Jan 27, Feb 3, and Feb 6, 6:30–9:30pm. To register for the RAD course, sign up at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1386796002692.

5. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR FOREST RESOURCES/ENVIRON CONSERVATION GRAD SYMPOSIUM – 1st posting
Held on Apr 1, 2014, the 6th annual forest resource and environmental conservation research symposium brings together graduate students from VT and other colleges and universities to communicate within and across disciplines and to build relationships with future colleagues and potential employers. Accommodations will be provided for presenters at the Inn at Virginia Tech. Abstracts are invited in the following areas: Forest Biometrics and Geomatics; Forest Ecology and Silviculture; Forest Economics and Policy; Urban Forestry; Forest Operations and Business; Forest Soils and Hydrology; Human Dimensions; Forest Genetics and Biotechnology. Submission deadline: Midnight, Jan 10, 2014. Abstracts can be up to 250 words and should include objectives and methods and will be judged based on relevancy to the symposium. Visit http://frec.vt.edu/grs/ for further information. Abstracts can be submitted through the website or at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/K7BKJ5H. Contact Beth Avera at bavera@vt.edu with any questions.

6. REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS – 2nd posting
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2014 is now open.  Graduate students on an assistantship must either pay their comprehensive fees or enroll for payroll deductions by the payment deadline set by the Bursar’s Office.  To enroll in payroll deductions, login to Hokie SPA, choose University Account Information menu, and click on Graduate Students on Assistantship, enroll in Payroll Deduction. You must enroll in payroll deduction each semester in which you wish to take advantage of this opportunity. 

7. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS OPEN UNTIL JAN 31
A number of prestigious awards are granted to graduate students each year, carrying a monetary prize ($200-$1000 each) and award certificate. Discuss the possibility of your nomination by your advisor/department for any of the following awards that will be given out during the Graduate School’s annual awards banquet on March 27, 2014:

  • Outstanding Dissertation in (1) math, sciences and engineering, and (1) in social sciences, business and humanities
  • Preston Society Master’s Thesis Award
  • Graduate Student Teaching Excellence (1) for GTA instructor of record (1) GTA instructor assistant
  • Graduate Student Service Excellence
  • Graduate Student of the Year (up to three awards given)
  • Outstanding master’s and doctoral student in each college and in interdisciplinary programs

More information about criteria, forms, and process for nomination are at: http://graduateschool.vt.edu/awards.

8. JOIN NRV SINGLES FACEBOOK GROUP – 3rd posting
Join the New River Valley Singles Group on Facebook – a place where you can post event information and welcome others to join you, or look for events and meet new people. The group is open to all people in the area, not just Hokies, and there is no speed dating or formality behind it, just a way to get to know others. View the group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/nrvsingles/. This invitation is posted on behalf of grad student Chris Frisina, chrisfrisina@gmail.com.

9. VEHICLE REPAIR GROUP –  3rd posting
Got a vehicle to repair? This group works on them about once a month, and eat and drink while they do it. From water pumps to timing belts; from head gaskets to oil changes, there are vehicles, and they need work here and there. Chris has the majority of the tools, diagnostics tools, with some specialty ones, and connections to those that have the real oddball ones.  Start a discussion or get advice! View the Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/vtcarrepair/. This invitation is posted on behalf of grad student Chris Frisina, chrisfrisina@gmail.com.

10. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH DAY POSTER SESSION – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) invites you to submit a 400-word abstract to take part in a poster session during the Annual Interdisciplinary Research Day, to be held at The Inn at Virginia Tech on Feb 27, 2014. Abstracts will be selected primarily based on the integration of interdisciplinary research into the author’s work. Submission deadline: Jan 25, 2014. To submit an abstract, fill out the form at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1386293281414. Instruction for abstracts is available in this link. Abstract notifications will be sent on Feb 8. Contact Shelley Cooke (slcooke@vt.edu) or Souvick Chatterjee (souvick8@vt.edu) with any questions.

11. VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY PROGRAM – 1st posting
The Virginia Bioinformatics Institute, Virginia 4-H, and other members of the VT community are asking for volunteers to assist with logistics of the spring 2014 Kids’ Tech University program (http://kidstechuniversity.vbi.vt.edu/), which brings about 450 kids ages 9-12 to VT to spark their  interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM disciplines). Volunteers are needed on any or all of the following days: Jan 25, Feb 22, Mar 22, and Apr 5, 2014 from 9:00am to 4:00pm. In the morning, there will be an interactive session followed by Q & A, a lunch break, then hands-on activities. If you can only be there for a portion of the time please let organizers know. If interested in volunteering, fill out this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1381347633696. Contact KTU’s volunteer coordinator, Ms. Maria Laubenbacher, maria@vbi.vt.edu, with questions.

12. CALL FOR RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS FOR LIFESTYLE AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH STUDY – 1st posting
Men and women 18-35 years old, who are sedentary or recreationally active are invited to participate in a cross-sectional study examining how lifestyle factors influence arterial health. 1-2 lab visits for a total of ~2 hours would be required. Measures include anthropometrics and body composition, surveys, a blood draw, and measurement of arterial health with an ultrasound and a small probe. Participants receive $50 upon study completion. E-mail Tanya (tanyamh@vt.edu) for more information.