Month: January 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/26

• Career Services advising: Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
• Cook Counseling: Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room
• Statistical consulting by LISA: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 10:00am-12:00pm, Room A
• Writing assistance: Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. AFFORDABLE CARE ACT INFO SESSIONS
Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan 27 and 28, 12:00-1:00pm and 5:30-7:00pm, Room C
Attend one of the four sessions to learn about your potential eligibility for financial assistance on monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs associated with health insurance obtained through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

3. THESIS/DISSERTATION-WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, Jan 27, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with staying on track with your writing? Share some of your experiences with fellow grad students who are going through the same process and take advantage of a safe place to decompress from the stress of your thesis/dissertation. Join this dissertation support group and see how it may support your progress. Bring your own lunch!  Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu for more information.

4. OPEN AUDITIONS FOR “BURIEL AT THEBES”
Tuesday, Jan 27, 6:00-9:00pm, 104 Performing Arts Building
Looking for male and female actors for an adaptation of the Greek tragedy ‘Antigone’ written by Seamus Heaney and directed by grad student Naphtali Fields. The play examines the impetus and honor of an individual vs. the authority of the state. It’s a haunting piece with incredible roles for actors and singers. If you haven’t had very much acting experience, don’t be intimidated! The director is looking for people who are enthusiastic and interested in telling a powerful story. Contact Naphtali Fields at naphtalifields@gmail.com  with audition questions.

5. RESUME WRITING WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Jan 28, 5:30pm, GLC Room G
Having a well-polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview. Start early and be ready for fall career fairs and on-campus interviews. Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.

6. A CONVERSATION ON RACE: DIVERSITY & UNITY ON CAMPUS
Wednesday, Jan 28, 6:30-8:00pm, Squires Old Dominion Ballroom
What’s your experience of racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity at Virginia Tech? Join students and community members seeking a healthier campus climate through this interactive dinner and dialogue. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship and the Division of Student Affairs.

7. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Jan 29, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, explore big and small ideas, and build your network of colleagues and friends.

8. RACIAL DIVISION: HOW IS RELIGION PART OF THE PROBLEM?
Friday, Jan 30, 12:15-1:10pm, GLC Room C
This interactive dialogue and Bible discussion is the first of a three-week series called Continuing a Conversation on Race. All are welcome to bring a lunch and join in. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

9. GAME NIGHT WITH QGP&A
Friday, Jan 30, 6:30-9:00pm, GLC Room B
Join Queer Grads, Professionals and Allies (QGP&A) for an evening of board games and conversation. Contact Darren dmaczka@vt.edu with questions.

10. GENERAL INTEREST MEETING FOR THE INTERLOPER
Sunday, Feb 1, 1:00-2:00pm, 370/80 Shanks Hall
The Interloper, Virginia Tech’s LGBT magazine, is gearing up for its third issue! The magazine is looking for writers, photographers, artists, and editors to contribute. Attend their general interest meeting on Sunday to learn more or emai Matty Bennett at matthew@vt.edu with any questions.

11. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH DAY POSTER SESSION – 1st posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) invites abstract submissions for the poster session during the annual Interdisciplinary Research Day, to be held at The Inn at Virginia Tech on Febr 26, 2015. Abstracts showing an integration of interdisciplinary research are welcome in all categories. If your research integrates work from different disciplines, consider sharing your work! Cash awards presented to winners. Submission deadline is Jan 30, 2015. Instructions and submission form are at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1386293281414. Contact Rachael Kennedy (kennedy3@vt.edu) or Souvick Chatterjee (souvick8@vt.edu) with questions.

12. WALK-IN STATISTICAL CONSULTING BY LISA, SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
Available Jan 20-May 6, closed during spring break (Mar 9-13). A statistical consultant is available Monday through Friday when classes are in session to answer your quick questions or to help with research projects requiring less than 30 minutes of assistance. For more in-depth questions or longer projects, complete the LISA request form and a team of statistical collaborators will be assigned to work with you. Note: LISA does not assist with class projects or homework. Schedule and locations:

• Mon-Fri 1-3 pm, Room 103 Old Security Building (OSB)
• Mondays 3-5 pm, Port:Digital Research Commons (Torgersen Bridge)
• Wednesdays 10am-12pm, 403-J Hutcheson Hall (LISA Meeting Room)
• Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday, 10am-12 pm in GLC Meeting Room A

For more information visit http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/.

13. SPACES STILL AVAILABLE IN NEW LITTLE HOKIE™ HANGOUT
The Graduate School’s new parent cooperative playgroup will hold a final Open House this Saturday at Luther Memorial Lutheran Center from 2:00-5:00pm. For more information visit http://childcare.graduateschool.vt.edu or email childcare@vt.edu.

14. JOIN ITRAAB ARABIC MUSIC ENSEMBLE – 2nd posting
Itraab Arabic Music Ensemble, whose name means "creating enchantment through music," invites the musically inclined to join the preparations to present at the VT Center for the Arts Islamic Worlds Festival on Apr 11, 2015. Learn vocal pieces from various parts of the Arab world and basic percussion skills on the frame drum. Instruments will be provided for use. Musical experience is a plus, but not necessary. People who already play Arabic musical instruments (`ud, nay, qanun, violin, darabukka, etc.) are encouraged to contact the instructor if interested in performing on these instruments. Young people (ages 10 and up) are welcome to participate with a parent. Rehearsals will take place Saturdays 10:00am-12:00pm on Jan 31, Feb 14, Feb 28, Mar 21, Mar 28, and Apr 4, 2015. To register or if you have a question, please contact Sarah at sarahhf@vt.edu or 207-735-3962.

15. ACROSSBORDERS@VT INVITES INTL LGBTQ STUDENTS – 2nd posting
Do you identify yourself as international and LGBTQ? Do you need a safe space to talk about issues related to being international and identifying as LGBTQ? AcrossBorders@VT is an informal group that addresses the needs and concerns of international LGBTQ people at Virginia Tech. Privacy and confidentiality of members is encouraged. If you are interested or have questions, please contact acrossborders.vt@gmail.com. In addition, email to join the closed Facebook group to connect with other international LGBTQ people.

16. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT TRAVEL GRANT – 2nd posting
This grant supports student travel to a professional conference or a professional development opportunity that promotes the culture of Ut Prosim at VT and furthers the scholarship of engagement.  The grants are awarded to students who have been accepted to present or attend a conference or professional meeting.  All full- or part-time students who meet these criteria are encouraged to apply.  For more information, please visit: http://www.engage.vt.edu/grants-awards/.

17. LANGUAGE COURSES FOR SPOUSES AND PARTNERS OF VT STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES
The Language and Culture Institute (CLI) offers a new program that allows international spouses and partners of VT students, employees and other affiliates to take reduced-rate English classes. The English Language Program for International Spouses/Partners provides instruction to individuals in F-2, H-4, and J-2 statuses. Classes are offered during two 8-9 week sessions and offer instruction in all skill areas — including listening, speaking, reading, writing, and pronunciation — from beginning through advanced proficiency levels. The cost is $50 per class and up to two classes may be taken per semester. For more information, visit www.lci.vt.edu/spouses.

18. SPRING ENROLLMENT IN AETNA HEALTH INSURANCE – deadline Jan 31
Spring open enrollment period for the university-sponsored plan by Aetna is Dec 19-Jan 31. Visit the Student Medical Insurance Office website at http://www.co.vt.edu/Risk/studenthealthinsr/ for instructions on enrollment, plan details and more. If you have questions, please contact SMI at 231-6226.

19. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION RE-OPEN JAN 26-Feb 6
The 31st Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium will take place on Mar 25, 2015 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between 12:01am Jan 26 and 11:59pm Feb 6. Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience (Resources for Communicating Research). If you submitted in the fall and did not receive a confirmation email that your abstract was accepted or rejected, please contact us. Contact the Research Symposium Chairs (Alex Hyler and Joyce Zhu) at atgsa.syposium.2015@gmail.com with any questions.

20. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2015 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. 

21. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – deadline Feb 13
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 13, 2015. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

22. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – deadline Feb 6
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 26, 2015:

• 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/academics/awards/2014_2015.

23. GSA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR POSITION (FT GA) OPEN – 1st posting
The Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) is seeking applicants for the Executive Director position, to begin during the spring 2015 semester. This is a 20 hr/wk graduate assistantship starting in spring, with preference to continue in 2015-2016 if all parties agree at the end of spring semester. Primary duties include, but are not limited to: planning the Graduate and Professional School Fair, working with the Director of Programs to plan events, assisting with GSA’s funding programs, coordinating the hire of program chairs, maintaining the GSA office, and helping the GSA Board as needed. If you are interested, please e-mail your resume and a letter of interest to Jenn Gooding at jgooding@vt.edu by Tue, Feb 10.

24. FAMILIES AND CHILDREN SOUGHT FOR MINDFULNESS STUDY – 1st posting
VT researchers are looking for families with children ages 7-10 to participate in a study on physiological responses to parent and child interaction. This study involves a 45-min visit to the VT Autism Clinic. You will be asked to complete questionnaires and then participate in an activity with your child. Researchers will collect physiological information from mothers only. Participating children will receive a small toy and parents will be entered in a raffle for three $50 gift cards as compensation. If interested in learning more, contact vtinteractionstudy@gmail.com or call (540) 231-2053.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

NUSPARK BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
Tuesday, Feb 3, 5:30pm, Turner Place
NuSpark, the innovation-, entrepreneurial- and incubation space available to all students and faculty of Virginia Tech, is celebrating its success.  After a year of success, it’s time to celebrate! Join NuSpark for an evening of snacks, networking, hearing from the teams, and even a Twitter challenge with prizes! Please sign up at https://www.facebook.com/events/1525903384341348/. This message is posted on behalf of graduate student Scott Walker, scott18w@vt.edu.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/19

• Career Services advising, Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm, GLC lobby
• Cook Counseling, Thursdays and Fridays 1:00-5:00pm, Green Room 
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room – returns Jan 8, 2015
• Writing assistance, Thursdays starting Jan 29 5:00-8:00pm, Room A

2. MLK-DAY DIALOGUE IN THE GLC
Monday, Jan 19, 10:00am-2:00pm, Graduate Life Center
The Graduate Life Center will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by opening its doors for dialogue about the needs of graduate students. From 10am-1pm coffee and tea will be available in the GLC lobby for informal discussion facilitated by Inclusion Coordinator Dannette Beane. From 11-12:30pm student leaders will facilitate discussion around what underrepresented students need and action plans to increase the diversity and inclusion efforts for graduate students. Rooms and topics TBA. From 12:30-1pm lunch will be available in the MPR. Please RSVP at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_e3OrEfQXntQYqwt. At 1pm, Dean DePauw will facilitate a discussion around the needs discussed during the morning sessions and share the Graduate School’s new initiatives. Students are also encouraged to stop in the GLC all month to write suggestions and comments on paper provided in the hallway by ABP about how to make the space and the graduate-school experience more inclusive.

3. FREE WEEK OF FITNESS
Tuesday-Monday, Jan 20-26, all day, McComas Hall Gym & War Memorial Gym
Take free group exercise classes and small group trainings in McComas and War Memorial Hall between Jan 20-26. See the full schedule online at recsports.vt.edu.

4. PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MONTHLY
Wednesday, Jan 21, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
The Parent Support Group is a new opportunity for graduate students and their partners who have or are expecting children, designed to provide a place to connect and build community. The group will be meeting this Wednesday in the GLC. Lunch will be served and partners and children are welcome! Please register at http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0e4fabaa28a1ff2-january. Registration is not necessary to attend.

5. FITNESS LAUNCH PARTY (FREE!)
Wednesday, Jan 21, 5:30pm-7:00pm, McComas Hall Gym
This event is a 1.5 hour workout featuring exercises from 5 different fitness classes: Les Mills GRIT, BODYATTACK, BODYCOMBAT, BODYJAM, and BODYFLOW. Bring a couple of friends and join this free, fun workout! Visit recsports.vt.edu for details.

6. POVERTY, BIOLOGY AND HEALTH: WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN?
Thursday, Jan 22, 3:30pm, Fralin Auditorium
The speakers, Drs. Craig and Sharon Ramey, are internationally known for researching the effects of impoverished environments and poverty on early childhood brain development and cognition. They will   present their recent findings on the intergenerational and lifelong effects of impoverished environments, and the extent to which systematic, theory-driven interventions (tested via randomized controlled trials and multi-site observational studies) produce improved health outcomes linked to morbidity and mortality.  As their work is highly interdisciplinary and integrates the fields of biology, psychology, sociology and human development, these talks will be of interest to graduate students from a broad range of departments. 

7. GLC CAFÉ: FAREWELL TO A CAFÉ REGULAR
Thursday, Jan 22, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
Enjoy coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate student and Grad School colleagues. This week we’ll say farewell to one of the Café regulars who has just graduated and is moving onto a new job!

8. STUDENT HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR (FREE!)
Friday, Jan 23, 11:00am-3:00pm, McComas Hall Gym
Stop by McComas Hall to check out many different booths to help you learn more about improving different areas of your health. There will be giveaways, therapy dogs, health screenings, informational booths, free fitness classes, and more! Check out recsports.vt.edu for more information.

9. THE CIVIL RIGHTS OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND BIOLOGY: MLK’S ENDURING LEGACY
Friday, Jan 23, 12:20pm, VBI Auditorium
The internationally recognized speakers, Drs. Craig and Sharon Ramey, will address why eliminating health and educational disparities is a compelling and crucial goal for the future of our nation. It will review compelling historical scientific findings about the impact of race and poverty on the life course, biologically and behaviorally. The focus will be on a new 2014 national agenda that links education and health as the most compelling ways to overcome entrenched inequities and health disparities that endure as a legacy of racism and classism.  As their work is highly interdisciplinary and integrates the fields of biology, psychology, sociology and human development, these talks will be of interest to students from a broad range of departments. 

10. AUDITIONS FOR “SWOLLEN TONGUES,” A COMEDY IN RHYMING COUPLETS
Friday, Jan 23, 6:00-10:00pm, Performing Arts Bldg 204
Cast includes three female and one male role. To sign up, email Kristin Kelly at krkelly@vt.edu. Swollen Tongues is a fast-paced comedy written in rhyming couplets. The characters are challenged to find the true meaning and expression of love through poetry. The play explores humorously mistaken identity, gender roles and performance, and consent and intention. Show dates are Mar 23-25; rehearsals begin Feb 2.

11. FREE DINNER & GAME NIGHT
Friday, Jan 24, 6:30-9:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Come join fellow grad students for an evening of free food and fun! We will have 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.

12. SPACES STILL AVAILABLE IN NEW LITTLE HOKIE™ HANGOUT
The Graduate School’s new parent cooperative playgroup will hold a final Open House this Saturday at Luther Memorial Lutheran Center from 2:00-5:00pm. For more information visit http://childcare.graduateschool.vt.edu or email childcare@vt.edu.

13. JOIN ITRAAB ARABIC MUSIC ENSEMBLE
Itraab Arabic Music Ensemble, whose name means "creating enchantment through music," invites the musically inclined to join the preparations to present at the VT Center for the Arts Islamic Worlds Festival on Apr 11, 2015. Learn vocal pieces from various parts of the Arab world and basic percussion skills on the frame drum. Instruments will be provided for use. Musical experience is a plus, but not necessary. People who already play Arabic musical instruments (`ud, nay, qanun, violin, darabukka, etc.) are encouraged to contact the instructor if interested in performing on these instruments. Young people (ages 10 and up) are welcome to participate with a parent. Rehearsals will take place Saturdays 10:00am-12:00pm on Jan 31, Feb 14, Feb 28, Mar 21, Mar 28, and Apr 4, 2015. To register or if you have a question, please contact Sarah at sarahhf@vt.edu or 207-735-3962.

14. ACROSSBORDERS@VT INVITES INTL LGBTQ STUDENTS
Do you identify yourself as international and LGBTQ? Do you need a safe space to talk about issues related to being international and identifying as LGBTQ? AcrossBorders@VT is an informal group that addresses the needs and concerns of international LGBTQ people at Virginia Tech. Privacy and confidentiality of members is encouraged. If you are interested or have questions, please contact acrossborders.vt@gmail.com. In addition, email to join the closed Facebook group to connect with other international LGBTQ people.

15. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT TRAVEL GRANT – 1st posting
This grant supports student travel to a professional conference or a professional development opportunity that promotes the culture of Ut Prosim at VT and furthers the scholarship of engagement.  The grants are awarded to students who have been accepted to present or attend a conference or professional meeting.  All full- or part-time students who meet these criteria are encouraged to apply.  For more information, please visit: http://www.engage.vt.edu/grants-awards/.

16. LANGUAGE COURSES FOR SPOUSES AND PARTNERS OF VT STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES
The Language and Culture Institute (CLI) offers a new program that allows international spouses and partners of VT students, employees and other affiliates to take reduced-rate English classes. The English Language Program for International Spouses/Partners provides instruction to individuals in F-2, H-4, and J-2 statuses. Classes are offered during two 8-9 week sessions and offer instruction in all skill areas — including listening, speaking, reading, writing, and pronunciation — from beginning through advanced proficiency levels. The cost is $50 per class and up to two classes may be taken per semester. For more information, visit www.lci.vt.edu/spouses.

17. NEW INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSE FOR SPRING 2015: WATER FOR HEALTH SEMINAR
GRAD 4514 Water for Health Seminar (1 cr; CRN 20121) is offered Spring 2015, as part of the Water INTERface IGEP and is open to any graduate students with interests in health, nutrition, environment, and water. Taught by Susan Duncan (FST) and Water INTERface faculty, the course will explore emerging nterdisciplinary issues related to the chemistry, biology, and engineering of drinking water; nutritional and aesthetic values of water and its role in controlling disease and promoting good health; methods of processing poor quality water to drinking water standards; subsequent changes in chemical, biological, nutritional, and palatability characteristics; implications for food preparation, processing, and safety and other consumer uses of water, and more.

18. SPRING ENROLLMENT IN AETNA HEALTH INSURANCE
Spring open enrollment period for the university-sponsored plan by Aetna is Dec 19-Jan 31. Visit the Student Medical Insurance Office website at http://www.co.vt.edu/Risk/studenthealthinsr/ for instructions on enrollment, plan details and more. If you have questions, please contact SMI at 231-6226.

19. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION RE-OPEN JAN 26-Feb 6
The 31st Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium will take place on Mar 25, 2015 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between 12:01am Jan 26 and 11:59pm Feb 6. Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience (Resources for Communicating Research). If you submitted in the fall and did not receive a confirmation email that your abstract was accepted or rejected, please contact us. Contact the Research Symposium Chairs (Alex Hyler and Joyce Zhu) at atgsa.syposium.2015@gmail.com with any questions.

20. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2015 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. 

21. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 13, 2015. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

22. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – deadline Feb 6
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 26, 2015:

• 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/academics/awards/2014_2015.

23. CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR KIDS’ TECH UNIVERSITY
The Virginia Bioinformatics Institute and other members of the VT community are looking for volunteers for Saturday, Jan 24, to assist with logistics of the spring 2015 Kids’ Tech University (KTU) program. There will be an interactive session in the morning, followed by Q & A, a lunch break, then hands-on activities. Any time you can help is greatly appreciated! Please complete the volunteer sign-up to participate. Contact Kristy Collins (kdivitto@vt.edu) for further details.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

LUNCH WITH THE DEAN
Monday, Jan 26, 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 perspectives in a casual, intimate setting. Registration is required – please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1420563124327 if you are interested in attending.

AFFORDABLE CARE ACT INFO SESSIONS
Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan 27 and 28, 12:00-1:00pm and 5:30-7:00pm, Room C
Attend one of the four sessions to learn about your potential eligibility for financial assistance on monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs associated with health insurance obtained through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

RESUME WRITING WORKSHOP
Wednesday, Jan 28, 5:30pm, GLC Room G
Having a well-polished resume is the most critical step toward getting an interview. Start early and be ready for fall career fairs and on-campus interviews. Contact Amy McPherson at amcphers@vt.edu if you have questions.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/5

• No walk-in GLC services during winter break. Services will resume after Jan 20, 2015
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room – returns Jan 8, 2015

2. DISSERTATION WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, Jan 13, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room D
Do you need some support with staying on track with your writing? Could you use some advice on managing your relationship with your advisor/committee? Would you share some of your experiences with fellow grad students who are going through the same process? Do you need a safe place to decompress from the stress of your dissertation? Join this dissertation support group and see how it may support your progress. Bring your own lunch!  Contact Monika Gibson at gibsonm@vt.edu for more information.

3. GLC CAFÉ: FEATURING CUBICLE-FARM TIRAMISU
Thursday, Jan 15, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The first event of the year in the GLC: enjoy coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate student and Grad School colleagues. If you don’t know what a cubicle-farm tiramisu is, stop by to find out! The GLC is still closed to the public, so enter through the Grad School entrance (facing Squires) or use your Hokie Passport to swipe in at the Otey Street or Bookstore side entrances.

4. HOW DO I SUPPORT? RESPONDING TO STUDENT DISCLOSURES OF GENDER-BASED SEXUAL VIOLENCE
Friday, Jan 16, 2:00-3:30pm, GLC Room F
This event is an opportunity to discuss how one can respond in supportive ways when a student (or colleague or friend) discloses experiences of gender-based sexual violence. The goal is to offer an opportunity to engage in dialogue on this topic about how to balance compliance with Title IX responsibilities and the desire to respond in the most supportive manner possible to disclosures of sexual or relationship violence. Members of the Women’s Center Counseling and Advocacy Team will facilitate a conversation on ways to provide support even if you are required to report a sexual assault. This event is open to all members of the VT community.

5. NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION
Friday, Jan 16, 2:00-3:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Our welcome event for new graduate students is packed with information to help you get started in your studies. Graduate School staff and grad student presenters will share information with participants.

6. NEW STUDENT CAFÉ
Friday, Jan 16, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Lobby
Enjoy free coffee, tea and cookies with fellow graduate students and Grad School staff.

7. PARENT COOPERATIVE PLAYGROUP OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, Jan 17, 2:00-5:00pm, Luther Memorial Lutheran Center
The Graduate School provides a new affordable child-care alternative for graduate student parents. Stop by during the open house to learn more about the details of this initiative, or visit http://childcare.graduateschool.vt.edu. For more information email to childcare@vt.edu.

8. SPACES STILL AVAILABLE IN NEW LITTLE HOKIE™ HANGOUT
The Graduate School’s new parent cooperative playgroup will hold a final Open House this Saturday at Luther Memorial Lutheran Center from 2:00-5:00pm. For more information visit http://childcare.graduateschool.vt.edu or email childcare@vt.edu.

9. NEW INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSE FOR SPRING 2015: WATER FOR HEALTH SEMINAR
GRAD 4514 Water for Health Seminar (1 cr; CRN 20121) is offered Spring 2015, as part of the Water INTERface IGEP and is open to any graduate students with interests in health, nutrition, environment, and water. Taught by Susan Duncan (FST) and Water INTERface faculty, the course will explore emerging nterdisciplinary issues related to the chemistry, biology, and engineering of drinking water; nutritional and aesthetic values of water and its role in controlling disease and promoting good health; methods of processing poor quality water to drinking water standards; subsequent changes in chemical, biological, nutritional, and palatability characteristics; implications for food preparation, processing, and safety and other consumer uses of water, and more.

10. SPRING ENROLLMENT IN AETNA HEALTH INSURANCE – 3rd posting
Spring open enrollment period for the university-sponsored plan by Aetna is Dec 19-Jan 31. Visit the Student Medical Insurance Office website at http://www.co.vt.edu/Risk/studenthealthinsr/ for instructions on enrollment, plan details and more. If you have questions, please contact SMI at 231-6226.

11. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION RE-OPEN JAN 26-Feb 6
The 31st Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium will take place on Mar 25, 2015 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between 12:01am Jan 26 and 11:59pm Feb 6. Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience (Resources for Communicating Research). If you submitted in the fall and did not receive a confirmation email that your abstract was accepted or rejected, please contact us. Contact the Research Symposium Chairs (Alex Hyler and Joyce Zhu) at atgsa.syposium.2015@gmail.com with any questions.

12. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS – 3rd  posting
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2015 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. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – 3rd posting
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 13, 2015. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

14. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – deadline Feb 6
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 26, 2015:

• 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/academics/awards/2014_2015.

15. GSA SEEKS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM VICE CHAIR – 3rd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly is seeking a vice chair for the Travel Fund Program for the spring 2015 semester who will co-manage the program with the current chair. The TFP is a small grants program which partially reimburses eligible graduate students’ travel when presenting their research at conferences. The vice chair will receive a small stipend and excellent experience for their CV! The ideal candidate will be strongly interested in serving as the program chair in the 2015-2016 academic year. Previous program management/GSA involvement preferred, but not required. More information about the program: http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/. If you are interested, e-mail a short letter of interest and your vita to kasey@vt.edu by Fri, Jan 23 2015 5pm.

16. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT STUDY ON CONSUMER SOCIALIZATION METHODS THAT PARENTS USE – 3rd posting
Participants are needed for a study on the ways in which parents socialize their child(ren) into consumer roles. Parents will discuss the ways in which they teach and train their children about spending and saving money, shopping, and the value of money. The study consists of a single interview that will take approximately one hour or less. To be eligible, participants must be a currently-married mother of a child aged 11-15 with whom they reside for at least half of each month. Participants will receive a $20 gift card in appreciation of their participation. If interested, contact George Batten at gpb2c@vt.edu for further details.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

MLK-DAY DIALOGUE IN THE GLC
Monday, Jan 19, 10:00am-2:00pm, Graduate Life Center
The Graduate Life Center will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by opening its doors for dialogue about the needs of graduate students. From 10am-1pm coffee and tea will be available in the GLC lobby for informal discussion facilitated by Inclusion Coordinator Dannette Beane. From 11-12:30pm student leaders will facilitate discussion around what underrepresented students need and action plans to increase the diversity and inclusion efforts for graduate students. Rooms and topics TBA. From 12:30-1pm lunch will be available in the MPR. Please RSVP at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_e3OrEfQXntQYqwt. At 1pm, Dean DePauw will facilitate a discussion around the needs discussed during the morning sessions and share the Graduate School’s new initiatives. Students are also encouraged to stop in the GLC all month to write suggestions and comments on paper provided in the hallway by ABP about how to make the space and the graduate-school experience more inclusive.

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MONTHLY
Wednesday, Jan 21, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room F
The Parent Support Group is a new opportunity for graduate students and their partners who have or are expecting children, designed to provide a place to connect and build community. The group will be meeting this Wednesday in the GLC. Lunch will be served and spouses and children are welcome! Please email childcare@vt.edu with any questions.

POVERTY, BIOLOGY AND HEALTH: WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN?
Thursday, Jan 22, 3:30pm, Fralin Auditorium
The speakers, Drs. Craig and Sharon Ramey, are internationally known for researching the effects of impoverished environments and poverty on early childhood brain development and cognition. They will   present their recent findings on the intergenerational and lifelong effects of impoverished environments, and the extent to which systematic, theory-driven interventions (tested via randomized controlled trials and multi-site observational studies) produce improved health outcomes linked to morbidity and mortality.  As their work is highly interdisciplinary and integrates the fields of biology, psychology, sociology and human development, these talks will be of interest to graduate students from a broad range of departments. 

THE CIVIL RIGHTS OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND BIOLOGY: MLK’S ENDURING LEGACY
Friday, Jan 23, 12:20pm, VBI Auditorium
The internationally recognized speakers, Drs. Craig and Sharon Ramey, will address why eliminating health and educational disparities is a compelling and crucial goal for the future of our nation. It will review compelling historical scientific findings about the impact of race and poverty on the life course, biologically and behaviorally. The focus will be on a new 2014 national agenda that links education and health as the most compelling ways to overcome entrenched inequities and health disparities that endure as a legacy of racism and classism.  As their work is highly interdisciplinary and integrates the fields of biology, psychology, sociology and human development, these talks will be of interest to students from a broad range of departments. 

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 1/5

• No walk-in services during winter break. Services will resume after Jan 20, 2015
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room – returns Jan 8, 2015

2. GLC CAFÉ 2015
Thursday, Jan 8, 3:30-5:00pm, GLC Reading Room
The first event of the year in the GLC: enjoy coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your graduate student and Grad School colleagues. The GLC is still closed to the public, so enter through the Grad School entrance (facing Squires) or use your Hokie Passport to swipe in at the Otey Street or Bookstore side entrances.

3. NEW INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSE FOR SPRING 2015: WATER FOR HEALTH SEMINAR
GRAD 4514 Water for Health Seminar (1 cr; CRN 20121) is offered Spring 2015, as part of the Water INTERface IGEP and is open to any graduate students with interests in health, nutrition, environment, and water. Taught by Susan Duncan (FST) and Water INTERface faculty, the course will explore emerging nterdisciplinary issues related to the chemistry, biology, and engineering of drinking water; nutritional and aesthetic values of water and its role in controlling disease and promoting good health; methods of processing poor quality water to drinking water standards; subsequent changes in chemical, biological, nutritional, and palatability characteristics; implications for food preparation, processing, and safety and other consumer uses of water, and more.

4. SPRING ENROLLMENT IN AETNA HEALTH INSURANCE – 2nd posting
Spring open enrollment period for the university-sponsored plan by Aetna is Dec 19-Jan 31. Visit the Student Medical Insurance Office website at http://www.co.vt.edu/Risk/studenthealthinsr/ for instructions on enrollment, plan details and more. If you have questions, please contact SMI at 231-6226.

5. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM ABSTRACT SUBMISSION RE-OPEN JAN 26-Feb 6
The 31st Annual Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) Research Symposium will take place on Mar 25, 2015 in the Graduate Life Center. Graduate and advanced undergraduate students are invited to submit an abstract for this event between 12:01am Jan 26 and 11:59pm Feb 6. Visit the Research Symposium website at http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-symposium/ for details and to submit an abstract. Read all information and see resources available for tailoring your abstract to this event in order to communicate your research to a broad audience (Resources for Communicating Research). If you submitted in the fall and did not receive a confirmation email that your abstract was accepted or rejected, please contact us. Contact the Research Symposium Chairs (Alex Hyler and Joyce Zhu) at atgsa.syposium.2015@gmail.com with any questions.

6. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR PAYROLL DEDUCTION OF COMP FEES FOR GRAD ASSISTANTS – 2nd  posting
The registration system for paying comprehensive fees through payroll deduction for spring 2015 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. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT REP TO BOARD OF VISITORS – 2nd posting
Applications for Graduate Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors are accepted until Feb 13, 2015. All currently enrolled graduate students in good standing are encouraged to consider this great leadership and service opportunity to represent graduate students’ voices, needs and interest on the VT Board of Visitors. Learn more at http://www.dsa.vt.edu/BOV/apply.php.

8. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR EXCELLENCE IN GRADUATE ACADEMIC ADVISING – deadline Jan 9
Virginia Tech sponsors three Exemplary Academic Advising awards annually in an effort to recognize the outstanding efforts of faculty and the role they play in retaining students and developing an advising partnership. More information is available at http://www.advising.vt.edu/index.php/advising-awards . At this time the nomination form is the only item being accepted. After the deadline, the nominee’s department head will be notified in order to solicit their support in submitting a complete dossier to be reviewed by the selection committee. For the Alumni Award for Excellence in Graduate Academic Advising, the nominee must be a full-time faculty member and must hold the rank of professor, associate professor, assistant professor or instructor. The Advising Award committee reviews nominations made by students, alumni, faculty, departments, or self-nominations, and selects a recipient. Send any questions regarding the nomination submission process to advising@vt.edu.

9. CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH DAY POSTER SESSION – 3rd posting
The Interdisciplinary Research Honor Society (IDR) invites you to submit an abstract for the poster session during the Annual Interdisciplinary Research Day, to be held at The Inn at Virginia Tech on Feb, 26, 2015. Abstracts showing an integration of interdisciplinary research are welcome in all categories. If your research integrates work from different disciplines, consider sharing your work. Submission deadline is Jan 30, 2015. Instructions and submission form are at: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1386293281414. Contact Rachael Kennedy (kennedy3@vt.edu) or Souvick Chatterjee (souvick8@vt.edu) with questions.

10. NOMINATIONS FOR GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS NOW OPEN – deadline Feb 6
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 26, 2015:

• 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/academics/awards/2014_2015.

11. GSA SEEKS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM VICE CHAIR – 2nd posting
The Graduate Student Assembly is seeking a vice chair for the Travel Fund Program for the spring 2015 semester who will co-manage the program with the current chair. The TFP is a small grants program which partially reimburses eligible graduate students’ travel when presenting their research at conferences. The vice chair will receive a small stipend and excellent experience for their CV! The ideal candidate will be strongly interested in serving as the program chair in the 2015-2016 academic year. Previous program management/GSA involvement preferred, but not required. More information about the program: http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/. If you are interested, e-mail a short letter of interest and your vita to kasey@vt.edu by Fri, Jan 23 2015 5pm.

12. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT STUDY ON CONSUMER SOCIALIZATION METHODS THAT PARENTS USE – 2nd posting
Participants are needed for a study on the ways in which parents socialize their child(ren) into consumer roles. Parents will discuss the ways in which they teach and train their children about spending and saving money, shopping, and the value of money. The study consists of a single interview that will take approximately one hour or less. To be eligible, participants must be a currently-married mother of a child aged 11-15 with whom they reside for at least half of each month. Participants will receive a $20 gift card in appreciation of their participation. If interested, contact George Batten at gpb2c@vt.edu for further details.

13. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR RESEARCH PROJECT ON WORK AND FAMILY IN FAMILY BUSINESSES – 3rd posting
Researchers in the VT Department of Human Development are conducting a study to investigate work and family in family businesses. They are looking for individuals who are (1) age 18 and older, (2) in a romantically involved, committed relationship for at least 1 year, and (3) both members of the relationship are involved in a family business. Participation would include a one-time survey that asks demographic information and completion of seven daily diaries that take about 30 minutes to complete. Participants are compensated $20.00 each for their time. If you are eligible and interested, contact the Co-Principal Investigator: Andrea Swenson at  aswenson@vt.edu. This study is approved by the Virginia Tech Institutional Review Board.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

MLK-DAY DIALOGUE IN THE GLC
Monday, Jan 19, 10:00am-2:00pm, Graduate Life Center
The Graduate Life Center will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by opening its doors for dialogue about the needs of graduate students. From 10am-1pm coffee and tea will be available in the GLC lobby for informal discussion facilitated by Inclusion Coordinator Dannette Beane. From 11-12:30pm student leaders will facilitate discussion around what underrepresented students need and action plans to increase the diversity and inclusion efforts for graduate students. Rooms and topics TBA. From 12:30-1pm lunch will be available in the MPR. Please RSVP at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_e3OrEfQXntQYqwt. At 1pm, Dean DePauw will facilitate a discussion around the needs discussed during the morning sessions and share the Graduate School’s new initiatives. Students are also encouraged to stop in the GLC all month to write suggestions and comments on paper provided in the hallway by ABP about how to make the space and the graduate-school experience more inclusive.