Month: March 2015

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

• 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. BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: HOW TO MAINTAIN ACADEMIC TIES WHILE WORKING IN INDUSTRY (Part II)
Monday, Mar 30, 12:00-1:15pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Martha Gross (PhD/CE, MBA ’11) and learn about her journey through graduate school and into the first couple of years of her highly successful career as a senior consultant at Arup. Through anecdotes, case studies and a Q & A with the audience, explore how to maintain ties to academia while working in industry. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425912522456. Free lunch will be served.

3. INTERNATIONAL LGBTQ SAFE ZONE
Tuesday, Mar 31, 3:00-5:00pm, GLC Room D
The international LGBTQ community is complex and nuanced.  Join MPS in this interactive session to learn more about the unique concerns and issues of queer international people, as well as considerations for queer Americans abroad.  Topics will include same-sexed marriage and adoption for international individuals, the coming out process across cultures, intercultural competence, and terminology. Facilitated by Hoa Nguyen.  Register at: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/organization/mps/calendar/details/613525. 

4. FREE ANXIETY AND OCD SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesday, Mar 31, 7:00pm, GLC Meeting Room D
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you struggle with OCD? A free monthly support group meets the last Tuesday of every month. Please join the group at the Graduate Life Center in Meeting Room D 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 Kelsey Banes at ajsmith1@vt.edu.

5. VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Wednesday-Thursday, Apr 1-2
SEC & ACC Schools work together to bring you this great opportunity. Meet employers online! More details and registration available at https://www.careereco.com/events/secacc. This message is posted on behalf of VT Career Services.

6. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Apr 2, 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.

7. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM BANQUET AND KEYNOTE
Thursday, Apr 2, 5:30pm, The Inn Ballroom
The Keynote will feature Dr. Stuart Firestein (https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein <https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein> ). Light hors d’oeuvres will be served on a first come, first served basis. Register for this event at http://goo.gl/forms/gQGhUlQWrL. Questions? Email gsa.symposium.2015@gmail.com.

8. THE SOCIAL PORTFOLIOS OF WOMEN AND MINORITIES
Friday, Apr 3, 2:00pm, 100 Hancock Hall
Dr. Beasley from the University of Connecticut has conducted research on the question of diversity in STEM fields and will be presenting her findings and recommendations. Her talk will be followed by a panel discussion with science and engineering faculty members. This event is sponsored by the Colleges of Engineering and Science, but all students, faculty, and staff are welcome to attend. Posted on behalf of master’s student Kirsten Davis, daviska@vt.edu.

9. GSA SPRING WINE AND BEER SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 3, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring wine and beer social for an evening of fun and socializing with fellow students. An assortment of beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Must be 21+ with a valid state ID to consume alcohol. General admission is $10 and delegates will be admitted for $5. Non-drinking guests are welcome for $2. Contact Samantha Erwin at sherwin@vt.edu with questions or if you are interested in volunteering for the event.

10. THE BURIAL AT THEBES
Friday, Saturday and Monday, Apr 3, 4, and 6, 7:30pm in Theater 101
Theater arts graduate student Naphtali Fields invites you to see The Burial at Thebes, a play written by Seamus Heaney and directed by Naphtali. The play is an adaptation of the classic tragedy Antigone and the agency of an individual’s conviction vs. the authority of the state.  Tickets are free but donations of non-perishable food items for the Blacksburg Food Pantry are gratefully accepted. Please reserve your tickets at www.VTBurialatThebes.eventbrite.com.

11. CALL FOR LISTSERV POSTING SUBMISSIONS FOR THE GLC WEEKLY APRIL 1 SPECIAL EDITION!
Here is your opportunity to get published in a peer-viewed online weekly notice: Submit your fake event description, faux call for research subjects, and other nonexistent opportunities for graduate students for the April 1 special edition of the GLC weekly listserv posting. Exercise your imagination and writing skills and earn extra points (in the form of chocolates and candy in 117 GLC) for a creative event or research idea, succinct description, and completeness of details. Submission deadline: March 31, midnight. Send to gibsonm@vt.edu, with subject line: You are a fool.

12. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INTERNATIONAL STREET FAIR – 1st posting
The Council of International Student Organizations is looking for performers for this year’s international street fair. If you you would like to perform, please complete the form the online form by Apr 10, 5:00pm at: http://goo.gl/pI3Pe9. For more information contact us at international@vt.edu.

13. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 2nd posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda national graduate honor society at VT is calling for applications for Spring 2015. Faculty, staff and colleagues are encouraged to nominate graduate students who have shown dedication to serving their graduate community. The requirements are: (1) completion of at least 12 grad level credits (2) good academic standing in the department (i.e. GPA (3.3 and above), or a letter by a committee member, or research publication record. Applications are due by April 27th and please visit the AEL website for more information or contact us at mka3@vt.edu.

14. GSA RESEARCH FUNDING CYCLE OPEN – 3rd posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program! The GRDP provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Applications for the spring cycle are accepted Mar 23-Apr 3, with winners announced in early May. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Email hglane07@vt.edu with "GRDP" in the subject line with any questions.

15. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE INSTITUTE – 2nd posting
The Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute is looking for a Graduate Assistant in Student Services to begin in August 2015.  The GA will work with students in the Intensive English Program and assist with student programming and events.  For full position description, or to apply, email Sondra Schreiber at sondra3@vt.edu by Apr 3.

16. GRAD ASSISTANT AND REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 2nd posting
Applications are now being accepted for Graduate Assistant and Reference Library Assistance positions for the 2015-16 academic year. Apply by 5:00pm Friday, Apr 24. Learn about the positions at http://www.lib.vt.edu/libnews/2015/2015-04-24.html.

17. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MILK-TASTING STUDY – 1st posting
Can you identify different samples? If you participated in the milk study in the last round, you cannot come to that same day again. Last round’s schedule was Day 1 3/18; Day 2 3/19; Day 3 3/20; Day 4, 3/23; Day 5, 3/25; Day 6, 3/26. For example, if you came to Day 1 and 2 of panels you cannot come to our panels on April 1 and 2, but are free to come the remainder of the panel days.

• Day 1:  Wednesday 4/1, 2 pm- 5:30 pm
• Day 2:  Thursday 4/2, 2 pm- 5:30 pm
• Day 3:  Friday 4/3, 10 am- 4:00pm
• Day 4:  Monday 4/6, 10 am- 4:00 pm
• Day 5:  Wednesday 4/8, 10 am- 4:00 pm
• Day 6:  April 9, 10 am- 4:00 pm

HABB1 Building, Rm 205 (corner of Duck Pond Dr. and Washington, St. MAP: https://goo.gl/maps/sIsyn) Each tasting lasts about 15 minutes. With questions contact Kemia Amin at kamin2@vt.edu.

18. FIRST-GENERATION GRAD STUDENTS SOUGHT FOR SURVEY – 1st posting
If you identify as first generation and Appalachian, you are invited to complete a survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9ERHMcTK5R4gISN. "First generation" means you are the first person in your family to attend college. "Appalachian" means that you or your parents graduated from a high school in the region as defined by the Appalachian Regional Commission. If you are from outside of the ARCs definition but identify as an Appalachian person, you may complete the survey. This survey is confidential and voluntary and should take about ten minutes. Results may be published. For more information contact diversity scholar Jordan Laney at jlaney@vt.edu.

19. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
Participants are sought for a survey on user behavior related to mirror usage and seeking feedback on appearance from others. The results of the survey will be used to guide a project for Usability Engineering. http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2073715/SmartMirrors. Please contact Shiwani Dewal at shiwanid@vt.edu with questions.

20. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INFO SCRAPS MANAGEMENT RESEARCH – 2nd posting
Will Ellis, master’s student in Human Computer Interaction in computer science invites you to participate in an IRB-approved research study about “information scraps,” the small pieces of information you take down to help you complete a task or remember something. The study consists of a 10-15 minute online questionnaire regarding your information scrap tools and habits. If you are interested, complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cRY8c8P64K3YRsF. At the end of the questionnaire, you may be invited to participate in an optional follow-up study held at a later time. Feel free to forward this survey to your friends. Contact researchers Will Ellis at wiellis@vt.edu  or Dr. Manuel A. Pérez-Quiñones at perez@cs.vt.edu with questions.

21. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NATION-WIDE ETD STUDY – 2nd posting
Participate in this survey to help researchers better understand how graduate students create, manage, and share materials that extend beyond the texts of their theses or dissertations. Virginia Tech is part of a nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and U of North Texas, Purdue University, U of North Carolina, U of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon, UT Knoxville, Oregon State U, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State U. Your participation is voluntary; all responses are confidential. Although you may not benefit personally from participation in this study, the ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The questionnaire will take about 15-20 minutes to complete: Take the survey <https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6>. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252.

22. FOOD SAFETY SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 2nd posting
Participants will be asked a few questions regarding their perceptions about food safety, and their thoughts on a health inspection grading system. Must be 18 years or older, and have eaten in at least one restaurant in Montgomery County, VA in the past year. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes to complete. To take the survey, go to http://tinyurl.com/foodsafety15. For more information, contact Connor Bryant, master’s student in public health, cabryant@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MUSCLE FATIGUE STUDY – 2nd posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved dissertation research study about the effects of different physical demands on muscle fatigue. Participants will perform a set of tasks, requiring forceful exertions of the hand, forearm, and/or upper arm.  Muscular strength will be measured by voluntary contraction and electrical stimulation of muscles.  Other measures will be related to performance and muscle fatigue by monitoring the muscle activity using EMG electrodes. Experiments will be conducted in the Safety Engineering Laboratory in the ISE department of VT. The complete experiment involves up to 7 experimental sessions, each requiring about 4 hours. You will be paid $10/hour for your participation and a $10 bonus after completing all sessions.  Your participation is voluntary and confidential. Must be 18-30; male or female; no current or recent history of a physical disorder affecting the hand/arm; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk). Contact Ehsan Rashedi at rashedi@vt.edu, (540) 629-0297) with any questions or if interested in participating.

24. UPCOMING EVENTS:

ISLAMIC WORLD FESTIVAL AT VT
Monday-Saturday, Apr 6-11, various times and locations
The VT Center for the Arts presents hip-hop musician Omar Offendum, comedians Maz Jobrani and Maysoon Zayid, and world-class musicians Kayhan Kalhor and Brooklyn Rider, among many other diverse events. Expect food, fashion, photography, fun, and unforgettable conversations in this celebration of arts and culture! The Islamic Worlds Festival aims to promote understanding about Muslim societies in their diverse political, social, religious, historical, and cultural contexts; cultivate civility; and celebrate the cultural traditions practiced in Muslim societies. To program this multi-day series of performances, lectures, and events, numerous cultural student groups shared their ideas and a committed team of VT students, faculty, and community members met for over a year to design this week of bridge building experiences. For a full list of events visit: https://www.artscenter.vt.edu/Online/islamicworlds.

JEWISH MONTH CONNECT LUNCHEON
Tuesday, Apr 7, 11:00-1:00pm, GLC Room F
All students, faculty, and staff are invited to this luncheon hosted by the Graduate School and the Jewish Student Union. During the luncheon there will be a short presentation about the Jewish Cultural Month followed by an interactive conversation with members of the Jewish Student Union. Lunch is provided! Please register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/8YVGGBG. Contact Nayesdi Badillo-Delgado with questions at Nayesdi@vt.edu.

SHORT STAT COURSE FOR GRADS: T-TESTS & ANOVA
Tuesday, Apr 7, 4:00-6:00pm, 1080 Torgersen Hall
When one is interested in the difference between means of strictly two groups, the most common statistical procedure in this situation is known as the t-test. When there are two or more groups the typical approach is to employ the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Taught by Kris Patton, this course will review the concepts behind two-sample and paired t tests and one and two-way ANOVA models. Attendees will learn the basic motivation and assumptions of each method.  Hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, and measures of effect size will also be described for each approach. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to register and to learn more.

VBI RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Thursday, Apr 9
Save the date!  Graduate students are invited to attend the VBI Research Symposium 2015. Registration required at https://app.smarterselect.com/programs/22207-Virginia-Bioinformatics-Institute-At-Virginia-Tech. For more information, visit http://www.vbi.vt.edu/research-symposium/2015.

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Spring 2015 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Apr 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
• Tuesday, Apr 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;
• Tuesday, Apr 21: Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) & Categorical Data Analysis (CDA);

Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

SPRING 30-AND-OVER SOCIAL
Thursday, Apr 16, 6:00-8:00pm, University Club
The Graduate School will host a spring social for the 30-and-over group. Food and adult beverages will be available. Please register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426175364088 if you plan to attend. Childcare is also available for this event; contact Jessie Meltsner at the Women’s Center, jmelts@vt.edu  or 231-7806 if you want to confirm childcare.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/16

• 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. GRAD STUDENT ART AND PHOTO CONTEST
All week in the GLC
Vote on your favorite grad student art and photography displayed throughout the first floor of the GLC. Pick up voting sheets at the Welcome Desk. All members of the VT community may vote; grad student voters will receive a raffle ticket to win gift certificates to local restaurants and other great prizes.

3. ISLAM AWARENESS WEEK
Monday, Mar 23 – Saturday, Mar 28
Islam Awareness Week is dedicated to educating and enlightening others about the fundamental beliefs and principles of Islam. This year, the MSA and ISA of Virginia Tech will be hosting a series of events throughout the week for both non-Muslims and Muslims of the Blacksburg community. Visit the event FB page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/events/627809830684888/.

4. GEW 2015 COFFEE KICKOFF AT NEWMAN – BREAKFAST TREATS!
Monday, Mar 23, 8:30-10:30am, Newman Library 1st floor Multipurpose Room
Bagels, doughnuts, fresh fruit, and a pretty extensive Yogurt Parfait Bar awaits! Jumpstart Grad Ed Week with coffee and a continental breakfast at Newman and meet, chat, and have coffee with experts at the library who can help you with lit reviews, managing data, assessing scholarly impact, using citation management software, and more. Please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425396128971 if you plan to attend.

5. CITIZEN SCHOLAR RECOGNITION CEREMONY
Monday, Mar 23, 4:00-5:30pm, GLC Room F
Graduate students who have put theory to practice for the advancement of a community will present their projects and receive the Citizen Scholar award. This event is open to all; no registration required. Light refreshments will be served.

6. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS: USING GGPLOT2 FOR ENHANCED GRAPHICS IN R
Monday, Mar 23, 5:30-7:30pm
Tuesday, Mar 24, 4:00-6:00pm
Taught by Paul Sabin, this short course will teach you how to make simple graphics in ggplot2 that are similar to plots made in R using the plot() function, and delve into more complex, layer-based graphics that ggplot2 is known for. The course is designed for researchers who are searching to improve their data visualization skills. Previous experience with R or another programming language is preferable, but not required. Learn how to make graphics such as barplots, histograms, scatterplots, box plots, density plots and also how to customize text and titles in the ggplot2 framework. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

7. GRAD STUDENT GAME NIGHT
Monday, Mar 23, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Student Lounge
Join the GLC Fellows and other graduate students for a fun evening of games and snacks. Some games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite game(s) to share.

8. THESIS/DISSERTATION-WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, Mar 24, 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.

9. REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW
Tuesday, Mar 24, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to format your electronic thesis/dissertation, use EndNote for citations, and what happens to your ETD after you submit it to the Graduate School. Bring your laptop and a pdf copy of your ETD.

10. GRAD NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: WILD
Tuesday, Mar 24, showings at 7:00 and 9:30pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy a night at the movies, courtesy of the Graduate School and The Lyric. Pick up your free ticket at the GLC Welcome Desk or in 120 GLC, the Graduate School’s student service area.

11. GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AND EXPO
Wednesday, Mar 25, 10:00am-4:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room and meeting rooms
Attend this annual highlight of Graduate Education Week to review the latest in graduate research at this interactive networking forum and poster session, and sit in on presentations as your time allows. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

12. LINKED-IN LAB
Wednesday, Mar 25, 2:00-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby
Have a free professional headshot photo taken for your LinkedIn profile and learn about how you can use LinkedIn for your job search. Career Services staff will assist you with a review of your profile. Wear appropriate shirt/top for your photo.

13. TWO ARTIST TALKS WITH ANGELO FILOMENO
Wednesday, Mar 25, 3:00pm, Theater 101 (200 College Ave)
Angelo Filomeno, an Italian-born, New York-based artist creates opulent “paintings” embroidered with luxurious threads on sumptuous, richly colored panels of shantung silk. Portraying a fantastical world of floral patterns, intertwined with exquisitely rendered fragments of plants, peacock feathers, insects, crystals, and skulls, Filomeno’s works are enchanting and seductive while juxtaposing exquisite beauty with undertones of the macabre. Attend this illustrated slide lecture followed by an informal gallery talk at 6:30pm at the Sherman Payne Quillen ‘71 Reception Gallery, Moss Arts Center. This message is posted on behalf of master’s student Sarah Halvorson-Fried.

14. LENTIL UNDERGROUND: BOOK READING AND DISCUSSION
Wednesday, Mar 25, 4:00-6:00pm, Litton-Reaves Hall Student Lounge
Attend this book reading and open discussion by Liz Carlisle, author of Lentil Underground: Renegade Farmers & the Future of Food in America. Speaking are Dr. Liz Carlisle, the author, & David Oien, third-generation Montana farmer & the book’s main character, who successfully led a “lentil uprising.” The discussion will range from biologically diverse cropping systems, to heritage seeds, to business in agrifood today. The book will be on sale at the event, and refreshments will be provided. This event is posted on behalf of doctoral student Lorien MacAuley.

15. LADIES NIGHT IN THE WEIGHT ROOM
Wednesday, Mar 25, 5:00-7:00pm, McComas
VT Rec Sports is hosting Ladies Night in the Weight Room – sign up for a one-on-one 30 minute free personal training session with one of the female VT Fitness trainers, or just go to learn more about lifting form and technique. There will be free tank tops and other prizes too! Grab your girlfriends and go to McComas on Wednesday night. Posted on behalf of Anna Taggart, Grad Assistant of Fitness.

16. LISA 2020: GRADS BUILDING RESEARCH CAPACITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 25, 6:00-7:30pm, GLC Room C
Learn how the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) can help you in your research and the efforts they are making to create a network of 20 statistical collaboration laboratories in developing countries by 2020. Free pizza! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425909047496.

17. VT INNOVATION SYSTEMS AND COMMERCIALIZING YOUR RESEARCH
Thursday, Mar 26, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room B
Can your research live beyond VT and maybe even help the world? Attend this session to discuss methods and barriers to commercializing research at Virginia Tech and learn how to determine if your research has commercial viability. This session will be led by three individuals locally involved in commercialization and entrepreneurship: Dr. Jack Lesko, Associate Dean of Research & Graduate Studies and Co-Founder, PowerHub Systems (www.pwrhub.com); Mr. Mike Abbott, Founder of Cambrian Development; and Ms. Sherry Walker, Director of NuSpark (NuSpark.org). Lunch will be served. Participants in this session will also be invited to tour NuSpark at a later date. Register at  https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425932415736. 

18. GLC CAFÉ: GEW EDITION WITH A SPECIAL GIFT RAFFLE
Thursday, Mar 26, 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. Participate in a special gift raffle to win coffee/tea-related item(s).

19. INCLUSIVE VT GRADUATE SCHOOL FORUM, TAKE II
Friday, Mar 27, 10:00am-12:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Vice President and Dean Karen P. DePauw and her staff will give updates on the three Graduate School initiatives and ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts. Dean DePauw will discuss progress made regarding the concerns expressed in the first forum in January. Students will participate in an activity to help answer President Sand’s question, "what would InclusiveVT look like if we were successful beyond our wildest dreams?" Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425398020752.

20. BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: INDUSTRY OR ACADEME? (Part I)
Friday, Mar 27, 12:00-1:15pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Martha Gross (PhD/CE, MBA ’11) and learn about her journey through graduate school and into the first couple of years of her highly successful career as a senior consultant at Arup. Through anecdotes, case studies and a Q & A with the audience, explore the decision-making process of transitioning from academe to industry and how to put your advanced degrees to the best use.  Free lunch will be served. Part II of the presentation on Monday, Mar 30, will explore how to maintain ties to academia while working in industry. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425912522456.

21. MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TECHNIQUES: THE ART OF JUGGLING
Friday, Mar 27, 1:30-2:30pm, GLC Room D
Ever feel like you have too much to do with not enough time or energy? Is the juggling of priorities, deadlines, and work/life balance stressing you out? Learn about stress, how it impacts you daily, and how to better manage it. Get tips on how to live your life in a more mindful way and relax your body and mind in mere minutes! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426099748636.

22. BIG COOKOUT
Friday, Mar 27, 4:30-6:30pm, Graduate School Lawn and GLC Multipurpose Room
As is our tradition, Graduate Education Week will wrap with the annual favorite big cookout on the lawn. All graduate students and their families are invited to enjoy free food (vegetarian and meat options), music, and games. This year’s specials: caricature artist, balloon twisting, temporary tattoos, pet fortune telling (bring your pet or a photo of him/her), photo booth, and more. Bring a blanket!

23. CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AEL GRAD HONOR SOCIETY – 1st posting
Alpha Epsilon Lambda national graduate honor society at VT is calling for applications for Spring 2015. Faculty, staff and colleagues are encouraged to nominate graduate students who have shown dedication to serving their graduate community. The requirements are: (1) completion of at least 12 grad level credits (2) good academic standing in the department (i.e. GPA (3.3 and above), or a letter by a committee member, or research publication record. Applications are due by April 27th and please visit the AEL website for more information or contact us at mka3@vt.edu.

24. GSA RESEARCH FUNDING CYCLE OPEN – 2nd posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program! The GRDP provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Applications for the spring cycle are accepted Mar 23-Apr 3, with winners announced in early May. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Email hglane07@vt.edu with "GRDP" in the subject line with any questions.

25. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO DIVERSITY COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE: BREAKING STEREOTYPES – 2nd posting
The CAUS Diversity Committee invites all university students, faculty, and staff to express their perspective on "Breaking Stereotypes". Entries can comprise any of the following media: essay, music, painting, photography, poster, and video, etc and must be submitted by Mar 25, 5:00pm. Competition rules and an entry form are available at http://caus.vt.edu/diversity/diversity-index.html. Submission can be delivered to: Carolyn Harris, cjharris@vt.edu; CAUS Dean’s Office, 202 Cowgill. Awards: Faculty/staff – 1st place $750; Grad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250; Ugrad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250.

26. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING FOR 2015-16 IN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING – 1st posting
The COE Dean’s Suite IT office has a full GA position from Aug 2015. Required qualifications: Experience in Windows 7/8 operating system and tablet pcs; excellent oral and written communication skills; detail orientation; strong organizational skills, some experience using pen-based technology, experience using the VT wireless network;, proven problem solving skills, and a positive attitude regarding tablet pcs. Candidates should be able to initiate, develop and complete projects independently and be willing to investigate, learn, adopt and promote new technologies. Preferred: experience using DyKnow, Microsoft OneNote, Scholar, Lecture Tools, PDF Annotator, and WebEx.  Qualified applicants only should apply by emailing a cover letter and resume to ipitadmin@vt.edu. Send only one file including both your cover letter and resume in .pdf format. Name your file “lastname_firstname.pdf”, and use the subject line for your email “Instructional Technology Graduate Assistant in COE Dean’s Office”. Application review starts  Tuesday, Apr 1. 

27. ASSISTANTSHIP OPENING IN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE INSTITUTE – 1st posting
The Virginia Tech Language and Culture Institute is looking for a Graduate Assistant in Student Services to begin in August 2015.  The GA will work with students in the Intensive English Program and assist with student programming and events.  For full position description, or to apply, email Sondra Schreiber at sondra3@vt.edu by Apr 3.

28. GRAD ASSISTANT AND REFERENCE LIBRARY ASSISTANT POSITION OPENINGS – 1st posting
Applications are now being accepted for Graduate Assistant and Reference Library Assistance positions for the 2015-16 academic year. Apply by 5:00pm Friday, Apr 24. Learn about the positions at http://www.lib.vt.edu/libnews/2015/2015-04-24.html.

29. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR INFO SCRAPS MANAGEMENT RESEARCH – 1st posting
Will Ellis, master’s student in Human Computer Interaction in computer science invites you to participate in an IRB-approved research study about “information scraps,” the small pieces of information you take down to help you complete a task or remember something. The study consists of a 10-15 minute online questionnaire regarding your information scrap tools and habits. If you are interested, complete the survey at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cRY8c8P64K3YRsF. At the end of the questionnaire, you may be invited to participate in an optional follow-up study held at a later time. Feel free to forward this survey to your friends. Contact researchers Will Ellis at wiellis@vt.edu  or Dr. Manuel A. Pérez-Quiñones at perez@cs.vt.edu with questions.

30. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR NATION-WIDE ETD STUDY – 1st posting
Participate in this survey to help researchers better understand how graduate students create, manage, and share materials that extend beyond the texts of their theses or dissertations. Virginia Tech is part of a nationwide ETDplus (http://educopia.org/etd) project in collaboration with the Educopia Institute and U of North Texas, Purdue University, U of North Carolina, U of Louisville, Carnegie Mellon, UT Knoxville, Oregon State U, Penn State, Morehouse School of Medicine Libraries, and Indiana State U. Your participation is voluntary; all responses are confidential. Although you may not benefit personally from participation in this study, the ETDplus project is creating tools, workshops, and documentation to better prepare universities to manage theses and dissertations and their supplementary materials. The questionnaire will take about 15-20 minutes to complete: Take the survey <https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WRZ35H6>. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this project, contact Gail McMillan at gailmac@vt.edu or (540) 231-9252.

31. FOOD SAFETY SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 1st posting
Participants will be asked a few questions regarding their perceptions about food safety, and their thoughts on a health inspection grading system. Must be 18 years or older, and have eaten in at least one restaurant in Montgomery County, VA in the past year. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes to complete. To take the survey, go to http://tinyurl.com/foodsafety15. For more information, contact Connor Bryant, master’s student in public health, cabryant@vt.edu.

32. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR MUSCLE FATIGUE STUDY – 1st posting
Participants are sought for an IRB-approved dissertation research study about the effects of different physical demands on muscle fatigue. Participants will perform a set of tasks, requiring forceful exertions of the hand, forearm, and/or upper arm.  Muscular strength will be measured by voluntary contraction and electrical stimulation of muscles.  Other measures will be related to performance and muscle fatigue by monitoring the muscle activity using EMG electrodes. Experiments will be conducted in the Safety Engineering Laboratory in the ISE department of VT. The complete experiment involves up to 7 experimental sessions, each requiring about 4 hours. You will be paid $10/hour for your participation and a $10 bonus after completing all sessions.  Your participation is voluntary and confidential. Must be 18-30; male or female; no current or recent history of a physical disorder affecting the hand/arm; exercise on a regular basis (2-3 times/wk). Contact Ehsan Rashedi at rashedi@vt.edu, (540) 629-0297) with any questions or if interested in participating.

Upcoming Events:

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Spring 2015 Schedule:

• Tuesday, Apr 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
• Tuesday, Apr 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;
• Tuesday, Apr 21: Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) & Categorical Data Analysis (CDA);

Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

VIRTUAL CAREER FAIR
Wednesday-Thursday, Apr 1-2
SEC & ACC Schools work together to bring you this great opportunity. Meet employers online! More details and registration available at https://www.careereco.com/events/secacc. This message is posted on behalf of VT Career Services.

GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM BANQUET AND KEYNOTE
Thursday, Apr 2, 5:30pm, The Inn Ballroom
The Keynote will feature Dr. Stuart Firestein (https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein <https://aaehq.com/people/stuart-firestein> ). Light hors d’oeuvres will be served on a first come, first served basis. Register for this event at http://goo.gl/forms/gQGhUlQWrL. Questions? Email gsa.symposium.2015@gmail.com.

GSA SPRING WINE AND BEER SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 3, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring wine and beer social for an evening of fun and socializing with fellow students. An assortment of beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Must be 21+ with a valid state ID to consume alcohol. General admission is $10 and delegates will be admitted for $5. Non-drinking guests are welcome for $2. Contact Samantha Erwin at sherwin@vt.edu with questions or if you are interested in volunteering for the event.

 

GEW 2015 COFFEE KICKOFF AT NEWMAN
Monday, Mar 23, 8:30-10:30am, Newman Library 1st floor Multipurpose Room
Jumpstart Grad Ed Week with coffee and a continental breakfast at Newman and meet, chat, and have coffee with experts at the library who can help you with lit reviews, managing data, assessing scholarly impact, using citation management software, and more. Please sign up at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425396128971 if you plan to attend.

CITIZEN SCHOLAR RECOGNITION CEREMONY
Monday, Mar 23, 4:00-5:30pm, GLC Room F
Graduate students who have put theory to practice for the advancement of a community will present their projects and receive the Citizen Scholar award. This event is open to all; no registration required. Light refreshments will be served.

GRAD STUDENT GAME NIGHT
Monday, Mar 23, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Student Lounge
Join the GLC Fellows and other graduate students for a fun evening of games and snacks. Some games will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite game(s) to share.

REMOVING THE MYSTERY OF THE ETD REVIEW
Tuesday, Mar 24, 7:00-8:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Learn how to format your electronic thesis/dissertation, use EndNote for citations, and what happens to your ETD after you submit it to the Graduate School. Bring your laptop and a pdf copy of your ETD.

GRAD NIGHT AT THE LYRIC: WILD
Tuesday, Mar 24, showings at 7:00 and 9:30pm, The Lyric Theatre
Enjoy a night at the movies, courtesy of the Graduate School and The Lyric. Pick up your free ticket at the GLC Welcome Desk or in 120 GLC, the Graduate School’s student service area.

VT BLACK BEAR RESEARCH CENTER TOUR
Wednesday, Mar 25, Tours at 8:15 and 9:00am; meet at 8:00am and 8:45 in the
GLC Lobby
Tour the black bear research facility and learn how graduate students collect data for their research from the bears. Space is limited to 8-10 people per tour; participants will be taken to the lab by van shuttle. Registration required at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426167779733 for the first tour, or at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426172540279 for the second tour. Registrants will receive an email reminder.

GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM AND EXPO
Wednesday, Mar 25, 10:00am-4:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room and meeting rooms
Attend this annual highlight of Graduate Education Week to review the latest in graduate research at this interactive networking forum and poster session, and sit in on presentations as your time allows. Sponsored by the Graduate Student Assembly.

LINKED-IN LAB
Wednesday, Mar 25, 2:00-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby
Have a free professional headshot photo taken for your LinkedIn profile and learn about how you can use LinkedIn for your job search. Career Services staff will assist you with a review of your profile. Wear appropriate shirt/top for your photo.

LISA 2020: GRADS BUILDING RESEARCH CAPACITY IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Wednesday, Mar 25, 6:00-7:30pm, GLC Room C
Learn how the Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (LISA) can help you in your research and the efforts they are making to create a network of 20 statistical collaboration laboratories in developing countries by 2020. Free pizza! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425909047496.

VT INNOVATION SYSTEMS AND COMMERCIALIZING YOUR RESEARCH
Thursday, Mar 26, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room B
Can your research live beyond VT and maybe even help the world? Attend this session to discuss methods and barriers to commercializing research at Virginia Tech and learn how to determine if your research has commercial viability. This session will be led by three individuals locally involved in commercialization and entrepreneurship: Dr. Jack Lesko, Associate Dean of Research & Graduate Studies and Co-Founder, PowerHub Systems (www.pwrhub.com); Mr. Mike Abbott, Founder of Cambrian Development; and Ms. Sherry Walker, Director of NuSpark (NuSpark.org). Lunch will be served. Participants in this session will also be invited to tour NuSpark at a later date. Register at  https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425932415736.  

CREATE YOUR OWN TERRARIUM
Thursday, Mar 26, 2:00pm, Meet at the Horticulture Gardens
Learn about the horticulture program while you create an easy-to-care-for miniature garden under glass for your home or office. Space is limited so please let us know (grads@vt.edu) if you sign-up and then cannot make it. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425574517215.

GLC CAFÉ: GEW EDITION WITH A SPECIAL GIFT RAFFLE
Thursday, Mar 26, 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. Participate in a special gift raffle to win coffee/tea-related item(s).

INCLUSIVE VT GRADUATE SCHOOL FORUM, TAKE II
Friday, Mar 27, 10:00am-12:00pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
Vice President and Dean Karen P. DePauw and her staff will give updates on the three Graduate School initiatives and ongoing diversity and inclusion efforts. Dean DePauw will discuss progress made regarding the concerns expressed in the first forum in January. Students will participate in an activity to help answer President Sand’s question, "what would InclusiveVT look like if we were successful beyond our wildest dreams?" Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425398020752.

BUILDING A PROFESSIONAL CAREER WITH PURPOSE: INDUSTRY OR ACADEME? (Part I)
Friday, Mar 27, 12:00-1:15pm, GLC Room C
Meet over lunch with graduate alumna Dr. Martha Gross (PhD/CE, MBA ’11) and learn about her journey through graduate school and into the first couple of years of her highly successful career as a senior consultant at Arup. Through anecdotes, case studies and a Q & A with the audience, explore the decision-making process of transitioning from academe to industry and how to put your advanced degrees to the best use.  Free lunch will be served. Part II of the presentation on Monday, Mar 30, will explore how to maintain ties to academia while working in industry. Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1425912522456.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION TECHNIQUES: THE ART OF JUGGLING
Friday, Mar 27, 1:30-2:30pm, GLC Room D
Ever feel like you have too much to do with not enough time or energy? Is the juggling of priorities, deadlines, and work/life balance stressing you out? Learn about stress, how it impacts you daily, and how to better manage it. Get tips on how to live your life in a more mindful way and relax your body and mind in mere minutes! Register at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1426099748636.

BIG COOKOUT
Friday, Mar 27, 4:30-6:30pm, Graduate School Lawn and GLC Multipurpose Room
As is our tradition, Graduate Education Week will wrap with the annual favorite big cookout on the lawn. All graduate students and their families are invited to enjoy free food (vegetarian and meat options), music, and games. This year’s specials: caricature artist, balloon twisting, temporary tattoos, pet fortune telling (bring your pet or a photo of him/her), photo booth, and more. Bring a blanket!

We challenge all graduate students to participate in at least one event this week!

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC – updated 3/16

• 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. STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP INFO SESSIONS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 11:00am– 3:00pm, GLC Room B
Interested in an international opportunity, but not sure how to finance it? Celebrate International Week by learning about scholarship opportunities. The Fulbright, Boren, Gilman, and Critical Language Scholarship programs will be among the opportunities discussed. Members of the Global Education Office and the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid will be in attendance. Information sessions will be held hourly at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00 and each session will last 30-45 minutes with time for questions. For more information, contact Rebecca Johnson (vtabroad@vt.edu ; 540-231-5888).

3. FEEDING A GROWING WORLD
Tuesday, Mar 17, 12:00pm, Fralin Auditorium
This program features VT alum Phil Haynie III, a fifth generation Black farmer who was recently recognized by the White House as a Champion of Change. Mr. Haynie will discuss how the agricultural community will feed 9 billion people in 2050, as well as his experiences as a Black farmer, precision agriculture, the need for scientists and engineers in agriculture, and how to use a Virginia Tech education to serve the world.

4. JELL-O WITH THE FELLOWS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Learn about the GLC Fellow application process, job requirements, and what life is like as a Fellow. Meet current Fellows, their supervisors, and enjoy some delicious Jell-o treats. Information about the position openings can be found at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. 

5. SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS: DESIGNING EXPERIMENTS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, 1080 Torgersen Hall
The goal of any scientific experiment is to maximize information gain, while minimizing the cost of the experiment. Taught by Justin Loda, this short course will discuss the three fundamental principles of experimental design (randomization, replication, and local control of error) and their relative importance in designing a useful experiment. Participants will also discuss some commonly designed experiments, such as randomized complete block and split-plot designs, as well as some more advanced. Anyone with little to no background in basic statistical techniques who are interested in acquiring an introduction to experimental design are welcome. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to REGISTER and to learn more.

6. AT THE CROSSROADS: ART, SCIENCE, RESEARCH
Tuesday, Mar 17, 7:30 pm, Cube, Moss Arts Center
During her artist residency at Virginia Tech in 2012, Healing Wars creator and director Liz Lerman engaged with faculty, students, and community members, including researchers at the VT Carilion Research Institute (VT CRI). Join a conversation between Lerman and Michael J. Friedlander, PhD, executive director of the VT CRI, on creative research, scientific research, and their intersections. Co-presented by Community Voices and the Center for Arts at VT. Free; registration required through the box office at https://artscenter.vt.edu/Online/healingwars or (540) 231-5300.

7. WORKSHOP FOR SCIENTISTS AND ARTISTS: MODELING SCIENCE, MODELING IDEAS – register now!
Wednesday Mar 18, 10:00am-12:00pm, Moss Arts Center
With vast improvements in quality and complexity of data in the life sciences, what thinking skills do we need to make sense of what’s there—and to make discoveries? Modeling brings precision and depth to the conceptualizations of biological processes, and embodied learning through "science choreography" catalyzes deconstruction and illumination of the core components and processes in modeling. This hands-on workshop, led by visiting choreographer and MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellow Liz Lerman, is designed especially for mixed groups of artists (theatre and dance) and scientists. No experience necessary. Contact Sarah at sarahhf@vt.edu to sign up. In your message, please indicate if you identify as a scientist, an artist, or both. Limited space is available; slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

8. PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MONTHLY
Wednesday, Mar 18, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
The Parent Support Group is an 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 Wednesday, March 18 in the GLC. Lunch will be served and partners and children are welcome! Contact Andrea with questions at aswenson@vt.edu. Sign-up at http://www.SignUpGenius.com/go/20F0E4FABAA28A1FF2-parent.

9. THE HEART OF RESEARCH: A CONVERSATION FOR EMERGING SCHOLARS
Wednesday, Mar 18, 7:00-8:30pm, GLC Room G
Research is at the heart of what it means to be a graduate student or faculty member. Come share about your work in this interdisciplinary dialogue on the meaning of your research. A free dinner will be served, and all are welcome. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

10. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 19, 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.

11. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST –ultimate posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 23-27) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Tuesday, Mar 17, 2015.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

12. CALLING ALL GRADUATE STUDENT ENTERTAINERS FOR GEW PERFORMANCE –ultimate posting
The Graduate School is seeking students to provide entertainment during the Graduate Education Week Big Cook-out on Friday, March 27. The circus-themed cook-out will run from 4:30-6:30pm on the Graduate School Lawn.  Entertainers needed include face painters, balloon artists, caricature artists, jugglers, or anything that may fit into our theme. To join our slate of performers, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1422907809572  Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu if you have questions.

13. GSA RESEARCH FUNDING CYCLE OPEN NEXT WEEK – 1st posting
Do you have an awesome research idea that deserves funding?  Apply to the GSA’s Graduate Research Development Program! The GRDP provides monetary support for graduate student research twice each academic year. Applications for the spring cycle are accepted Mar 23-Apr 3, with winners announced in early May. Get more information and apply online through the GSA website: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/graduate-research-development-program/. Email hglane07@vt.edu with "GRDP" in the subject line with any questions.

14. SUBMISSIONS INVITED TO DIVERSITY COMPETITION AND SHOWCASE: BREAKING STEREOTYPES
The CAUS Diversity Committee invites all university students, faculty, and staff to express their perspective on "Breaking Stereotypes". Entries can comprise any of the following media: essay, music, painting, photography, poster, and video, etc and must be submitted by Mar 25, 5:00pm. Competition rules and an entry form are available at http://caus.vt.edu/diversity/diversity-index.html. Submission can be delivered to: Carolyn Harris, cjharris@vt.edu; CAUS Dean’s Office, 202 Cowgill. Awards: Faculty/staff – 1st place $750; Grad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250; Ugrad students – 1st $750, 2nd $500, 3rd $250.

15. JOIN NEW 30-AND-OVER GRAD GROUP – 3rd posting
Welcome to all VT 30-and-over students who sometimes feel out of place in the traditional social circles of school. This group is intended to be social, fun and non-serious. Coffee date? OK. Hiking in the Blue Ridge? Fantastic! Bowling? I’m up for it! Planned events can be accessed through our GoogleGroups site https://groups.google.com/d/forum/VT-over-30. If you are part of a sub group (parents, athletic enthusiast, belly button lint collecting) let the group know and organize events within this group. The idea is to make everyone welcome and get to know other 30 and overs on VT’s campus.

16. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS INVITED – 3rd posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award.  If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website, http://graduateschool.vt.edu/gs/tge/cse.  Applications are due Mar 16.  For more information, email Shelby Ward, shelby08@vt.edu.

17. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR LATINO LECTURE SERIES – 3rd posting
This project aims to provide a space for mentoring relationships to organically occur. Please nominate students to the Latino Lecture Series: students who have turned in a paper, done research on, or can discuss topics specifically related to the Latino community can be nominated to present at this symposium. Nomination process: submit students’ first name, last name, email address, major, and a title for the project, paper, or research to miguelam@vt.edu.

18. GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 3rd posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2015-16 academic year. An ideal candidate would have previous residence life and/or event planning experience, though it is not a requirement. Applicants must submit a formal cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation, as well as complete the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1424447226591 . Information about cover letter requirements is at the survey link; full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. Apply by Mar 27, 2015. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Jacob Soles at jsoles11@vt.edu  if you have questions.

19. GRAD RESIDENTIAL FELLOW (GRF) OPENINGS IN WEST AJ RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE – 3rd posting
The West AJ Residential College is a community of 850 multi-generational students ranging from first-year to graduate from all academic disciplines. The GRF is a live-in position with responsibilities that include:  strong presence in the "house" and residential college; know each student living in the house; coordinate activities and experiences that facilitate community and serve the goals of the Residential College; serve as a role model; assist Faculty Principal and Associate Faculty Principal; serve as advisor for House Council; use the provided major on-campus meal plan to attend weekly House Dinners at the D2; facilitate the room and selection process; participate in trainings and meetings; other duties as assigned. Must invest min. 10 hrs/wk within house community; must be FT VT grad student in good academic standing, and have strong affinity for working with people within a residential setting. An interest in strengthening the academic/ intellectual undergraduate experience for a diverse array of students is required. GRFs receive a single room and a major on-campus meal plan and are appointed for a 1-year term, but are eligible for re-appointment for another 1-year term, based on performance. Ideally, a GRF serves in the position for 2 consecutive years. To apply, email letter of interest, resume, & contact information for 3 references to: Amanda Eagan, Assistant Student Life Coordinator, aeagan2@vt.edu.

20. VT SENSORY LAB PANELISTS SOUGHT TO TASTE MILK SAMPLES
Wednesday, Mar 18, 2:00 and 6:00pm
Thursday, Mar 19, 2:00 and 6:00pm
Friday, Mar 20, 10:00am and 4:00pm
Participants in the panels will be given a set of milk samples and asked to identify the different sample. Must be 18 years or older and do not have an allergy to milk. Come to the new Human and Agricultural Biosciences Building, Rm 205, 1230 Washington St SW (corner of Washington St and Duck Pond Rd; across from VBI. The testing should take approximately 10-15 minutes. You will be compensated for your participation. Each panel you participate you will receive 2 stamps; when you receive 10 stamps you will get a gift card. A light snack (choice of soda, chips, fruit, cookies, etc) will be available after each panel. For more information contact Kemia Amin, master’s student in food science and technology, kamin2@vt.edu.

21. UPCOMING EVENTS:

GRADUATE EDUCATION WEEK 2015 – Mar 23-27!
See http://graduateschool.vt.edu/GEW for a full schedule. Many events require pre-registration and spots may be limited, so please sign up early if you plan to participate! Some Highlights:

• GEW Coffee Kickoff at Newman – 3/23 8:30am, 1st floor Multipurpose Room
• Grad Night at The Lyric – 3/24; pick up your free ticket in the GLC
• VT Black Bear Research Tour – 3/25; must pre-register online, spaces limited
• GSA Research Symposium – 3/25 10:00-4:00, GLC
• VT Innovation Systems and Your Research – 3/26 12:00pm must pre-register for free lunch and presentation
• Create Your Own Terrarium – 3/26 2:00pm must pre-register; spaces are limited
• InclusiveVT Grad Forum – 3/27 10:00am, GLC
• Building a Professional Career with Purpose – 3/27 12:00pm must pre-register for free lunch and presentation
• Big Cook Out with music, food and games – 3/27 4:30-6:30, GLC Lawn

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Remaining Spring 2015 Schedule:

• Monday & Tuesday, March 23 & 24: Using ggplot2 to produce enhanced graphics in R;*
• Tuesday, April 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
• Tuesday, April 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;

*Two sessions of the same course to accommodate more attendees.
Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

31ST ANNUAL GSA RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM
Wednesday, Mar 25, 10:00am – 4:00pm
See the outstanding results of research efforts of your fellow graduate students: oral presentations and poster sessions will occur throughout the day. Questions? Email gsa.symposium.2015@gmail.com.

NETWORKING SESSION AND PROFESSIONAL PANEL SEEKS PARTICIPANTS– sign up now!
Saturday, Mar 28, McBryde Hall
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc is partnering with the TRiO Programs at Virginia Tech to sponsor this event during the College and Career. The group is seeking individuals from various professional and educational backgrounds to participate on the panel and to be present at the networking session.  If you are interested in participating please email your name, major/degree, work title(s), occupation, email contact information and whether you will be joining for lunch to Brielle Wright at bswright@vt.edu. Please sign up by Thursday, Mar 5. You will receive additional information from the TRiO Programs regarding any additional logistical information.

GSA SPRING WINE AND BEER SOCIAL
Friday, Apr 3, 5:00-9:00pm, University Club
The GSA invites you to its spring wine and beer social for an evening of fun and socializing with fellow students. An assortment of beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Must be 21+ with a valid state ID to consume alcohol. General admission is $10 and delegates will be admitted for $5. Non-drinking guests are welcome for $2. Contact Samantha Erwin at sherwin@vt.edu with questions or if you are interested in volunteering for the event.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

• Career Services, Cook Counseling, Statistical Consulting and Writing Assistance are on hiatus this week.  
• GLC Café: 3:30-5:00 every Thursday, Reading Room

2. SPRING BREAK
Saturday, Mar 7 – Sunday, Mar 15
For what it’s worth. Not that most graduate students will notice the difference. But maybe parking on campus is easier for a week? Take a minute and enjoy it.

3. THESIS/DISSERTATION-WRITING SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays bi-weekly, Mar 10, 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. SPRING BREAK GAME NIGHT
Wednesday, Mar 11, 7:00-9:00pm, meet in GLC Lobby
Around during spring break? Come join fellow grad students for an evening of fun! There will be a variety of games to enjoy. All are welcome, and you can come anytime. Sponsored by InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship.

5. GLC CAFÉ: SURPRISE EDITION
Thursday, Mar 12, 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. Stop by for a spring break surprise!

6. BACK TO BASICS: HOW TO BUILD STRONG RELATIONSHIPS
Saturday, Mar 14, 11:00am, The Inn at Virginia Tech
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of DST Sorority Inc invites you to this program to shed light on what it takes to build and maintain a strong foundation in a marriage before and after you say “I do.” Speakers for this program are Pastor Jefferson Jones of Graceway Ministries in Christiansburg, VA and Mr. Lance Franklin and Mrs. Anita Franklin who have provided many with advice that stems from their personal experience and the word of God. After the program there will time for questions, testimonials, and giveaways. Contact Brielle Wright, the Program Planning & Development Chair at 910-991-5385 or via email at ppd@bacdst13.org with any questions.

7. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – penultimate posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 23-27) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Tuesday, Mar 17, 2015.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

8. CALLING ALL GRADUATE STUDENT ENTERTAINERS FOR GEW PERFORMANCE – penultimate posting
The Graduate School is seeking students to provide entertainment during the Graduate Education Week Big Cook-out on Friday, March 27. The circus-themed cook-out will run from 4:30-6:30pm on the Graduate School Lawn.  Entertainers needed include face painters, balloon artists, caricature artists, jugglers, or anything that may fit into our theme. To join our slate of performers, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1422907809572  Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu if you have questions.

9. ACADEMY FOR GTA EXCELLENCE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS – very last posting
The Academy for GTA Excellence (Academy) invites applications for membership in the Learning Community and advancement into the Academy. The Academy provides opportunities for graduate students to receive advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies. It also provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to graduate students at all VT campuses. For additional information and application: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/jwrgrad/academy-for-advanced-teaching-and-transforming-learning-aattl/.  Applications are due Monday, Mar 16. For questions about the Academy, contact VP and Dean Karen P. DePauw (kpdepauw@vt.edu) or Nicole J. Johnson (nicj712@vt.edu).

10. JOIN NEW 30-AND-OVER GRAD GROUP – 2nd posting
Welcome to all VT 30-and-over students who sometimes feel out of place in the traditional social circles of school. This group is intended to be social, fun and non-serious. Coffee date? OK. Hiking in the Blue Ridge? Fantastic! Bowling? I’m up for it! Planned events can be accessed through our GoogleGroups site https://groups.google.com/d/forum/VT-over-30. If you are part of a sub group (parents, athletic enthusiast, belly button lint collecting) let the group know and organize events within this group. The idea is to make everyone welcome and get to know other 30 and overs on VT’s campus.

11. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS INVITED – 2nd posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award.  If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website, http://graduateschool.vt.edu/gs/tge/cse.  Applications are due Mar 16.  For more information, email Shelby Ward, shelby08@vt.edu.

12. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR LATINO LECTURE SERIES – 2nd posting
This project aims to provide a space for mentoring relationships to organically occur. Please nominate students to the Latino Lecture Series: students who have turned in a paper, done research on, or can discuss topics specifically related to the Latino community can be nominated to present at this symposium. Nomination process: submit students’ first name, last name, email address, major, and a title for the project, paper, or research to miguelam@vt.edu.

13. BGSO ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR FOUR AWARDS – 3rd posting
The first two awards will be presented to an undergraduate and graduate student that has sustained personal engagement with the VT community. The candidates should have active involvement in campus organizations, service to the community, and/or volunteer work. You can nominate and/or self-nominate a candidate at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1420820436631. The second two awards will be presented to a community and/ or faculty member that has active engagement in the community and/or has demonstrated a lifetime dedication to the betterment of the community. You can nominate and/or self-nominate a candidate at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1422932997108. Awards will be presented Apr 17, 2015 at the 17th Annual Ebony Affair “Black Excellence: Forging a Prominent Future”; where Dr. Nikki Giovanni will serve as the keynote speaker.

14. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM’S SPRING APPLICATION CYCLE OPEN MAR 2-22 – 3rd posting
If you’re planning to travel or have traveled to present your research at a scholarly conference between Jan 1 and Jun 30, 2015, consider applying for the Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP). Last year, the TFP provided partial reimbursement of travel and registration expenses to over 200 graduate students. Masters/doctoral students and domestic/international travel are all eligible. Applications accepted for the spring cycle from Monday, Mar 2 8:00am to Sunday, Mar 22 5:00pm. Visit http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/ for details and to apply. Read all the eligibility requirements and the FAQ and check out the GSA’s other programs and opportunities while you’re there! Contact Kasey Richardson, TFP Chair, or Chelsea Corkins, TFP Vice Chair at tfp2014@vt.edu with questions.

15. GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 2nd posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2015-16 academic year. An ideal candidate would have previous residence life and/or event planning experience, though it is not a requirement. Applicants must submit a formal cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation, as well as complete the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1424447226591 . Information about cover letter requirements is at the survey link; full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. Apply by Mar 27, 2015. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Jacob Soles at jsoles11@vt.edu  if you have questions.

16. GRAD RESIDENTIAL FELLOW (GRF) OPENINGS IN WEST AJ RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE – 2nd posting
The West AJ Residential College is a community of 850 multi-generational students ranging from first-year to graduate from all academic disciplines. The GRF is a live-in position with responsibilities that include:  strong presence in the "house" and residential college; know each student living in the house; coordinate activities and experiences that facilitate community and serve the goals of the Residential College; serve as a role model; assist Faculty Principal and Associate Faculty Principal; serve as advisor for House Council; use the provided major on-campus meal plan to attend weekly House Dinners at the D2; facilitate the room and selection process; participate in trainings and meetings; other duties as assigned. Must invest min. 10 hrs/wk within house community; must be FT VT grad student in good academic standing, and have strong affinity for working with people within a residential setting. An interest in strengthening the academic/ intellectual undergraduate experience for a diverse array of students is required. GRFs receive a single room and a major on-campus meal plan and are appointed for a 1-year term, but are eligible for re-appointment for another 1-year term, based on performance. Ideally, a GRF serves in the position for 2 consecutive years. To apply, email letter of interest, resume, & contact information for 3 references to: Amanda Eagan, Assistant Student Life Coordinator, aeagan2@vt.edu.

17. LGBTW YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS WANTED FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 3rd posting
VT researchers are seeking lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer youth and young adults age 13-21 to participate in a project exploring the decision to come out to family as gay, lesbian, bisexual or queer.  The questionnaire and in-depth interview take approximately 2-2.5 hours and participants will receive a $20 gift card. The PI is in the process of developing a program to help youth make safe and successful disclosure decisions to family; this research will help inform that project.  Participation is voluntary and all information associated with this IRB-approved study will remain strictly confidential.  If you have questions or would like to discuss eligibility, please contact the project office by email at VTProjectSMYLE@gmail.com or call (540)-231-4235. You can also check out our Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/VTProjectSMYLE

18. PARENTS OF LGB YOUTH  & YOUNG ADULTS WANTED FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 3rd posting
VT researchers are seeking parents who have had a child disclose to them in the last five years that they are lesbian, gay or bisexual when the child was 13-21.  The brief questionnaire and in-depth interview take about 1-2 hours and participants will receive a $20 gift card. The principal investigator is in the process of developing a program to help youth make safe and successful disclosure decisions to family; this research will help inform that project. Participation is voluntary and all information associated with this IRB-approved study will remain strictly confidential.  If you have questions or would like to discuss eligibility, please contact the project office by email at VTProjectSMYLE@gmail.com or call (540)-231-4235. You can also check out our Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/VTProjectSMYLE

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS: DESIGNING EXPERIMENTS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, 1080 Torgersen Hall
The goal of any scientific experiment is to maximize information gain, while minimizing the cost of the experiment. Taught by Justin Loda, this short course will discuss the three fundamental principles of experimental design (randomization, replication, and local control of error) and their relative importance in designing a useful experiment. Participants will also discuss some commonly designed experiments, such as randomized complete block and split-plot designs, as well as some more advanced. Anyone with little to no background in basic statistical techniques who are interested in acquiring an introduction to experimental design are welcome. See http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for instructions on how to REGISTER and to learn more.

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Spring 2015 Schedule:

• Monday & Tuesday, March 23 & 24: Using ggplot2 to produce enhanced graphics in R;*
• Tuesday, April 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
• Tuesday, April 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;
• *Two sessions of the same course to accommodate more attendees.
• Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

 STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP INFO SESSIONS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 11:00am– 3:00pm, GLC Room B
Interested in an international opportunity, but not sure how to finance it? Celebrate International Week by learning about scholarship opportunities. The Fulbright, Boren, Gilman, and Critical Language Scholarship programs will be among the opportunities discussed. Members of the Global Education Office and the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid will be in attendance. Information sessions will be held hourly at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00 and each session will last 30-45 minutes with time for questions. For more information, contact Rebecca Johnson (vtabroad@vt.edu ; 540-231-5888).

JELL-O WITH THE FELLOWS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Learn about the GLC Fellow application process, job requirements, and what life is like as a Fellow. Meet current Fellows, their supervisors, and enjoy some delicious Jell-o treats. Information about the position openings can be found at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. 

AT THE CROSSROADS: ART, SCIENCE, RESEARCH
Tuesday, Mar 17, 7:30 pm, Cube, Moss Arts Center
During her artist residency at Virginia Tech in 2012, Healing Wars creator and director Liz Lerman engaged with faculty, students, and community members, including researchers at the VT Carilion Research Institute (VT CRI). Join a conversation between Lerman and Michael J. Friedlander, PhD, executive director of the VT CRI, on creative research, scientific research, and their intersections. Co-presented by Community Voices and the Center for Arts at VT. Free; registration required through the box office at https://artscenter.vt.edu/Online/healingwars or (540) 231-5300.

WORKSHOP FOR SCIENTISTS AND ARTISTS: MODELING SCIENCE, MODELING IDEAS – register now!
Wednesday Mar 18, 10:00am-12:00pm, Moss Arts Center
With vast improvements in quality and complexity of data in the life sciences, what thinking skills do we need to make sense of what’s there—and to make discoveries? Modeling brings precision and depth to the conceptualizations of biological processes, and embodied learning through "science choreography" catalyzes deconstruction and illumination of the core components and processes in modeling. This hands-on workshop, led by visiting choreographer and MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellow Liz Lerman, is designed especially for mixed groups of artists (theatre and dance) and scientists. No experience necessary. Contact Sarah at sarahhf@vt.edu to sign up. In your message, please indicate if you identify as a scientist, an artist, or both. Limited space is available; slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MONTHLY
Wednesday, Mar 18, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
The Parent Support Group is an 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 Wednesday, March 18 in the GLC. Lunch will be served and partners and children are welcome! Contact Andrea with questions at aswenson@vt.edu.

NETWORKING SESSION AND PROFESSIONAL PANEL SEEKS PARTICIPANTS– sign up now!
Saturday, Mar 28, McBryde Hall
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc is partnering with the TRiO Programs at Virginia Tech to sponsor this event during the College and Career. The group is seeking individuals from various professional and educational backgrounds to participate on the panel and to be present at the networking session.  If you are interested in participating please email your name, major/degree, work title(s), occupation, email contact information and whether you will be joining for lunch to Brielle Wright at bswright@vt.edu. Please sign up by Thursday, Mar 5. You will receive additional information from the TRiO Programs regarding any additional logistical information.

1.  WEEKLY WALK-IN SERVICES IN THE GLC

• 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. GAME NIGHT HOSTED BY LATINO ORGANIZATIONS
Tuesday, Mar 3, 7:00-9:00pm, Room C
The VT Graduate Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (VTGradSHPE) in partnership with the Latin American and Iberian Graduate Student Association (LAIGSA) invites you to an evening of free food, fun, and fellowship at the Graduate Life Center. Contact Javier with questions at javig86@vt.edu.

3. GLC MOVIE NIGHT: TOP GUN
Tuesday, Mar 3, 8:30pm, GLC Room F
Come join fellow grad students for a screening of Top Gun. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.  This event is sponsored by the GLC Fellows. For more information contact jdt225@vt.edu.

4. RECREATION MANAGEMENT INFO SESSION
Wednesday, Mar 4, 5:00pm, McComas Classroom 198
If you’re interested in a career in Recreational Sports, attend this session to learn more about career opportunities, the next steps to take, and details about the upcoming NIRSA conference. This message is posted on behalf of grad student Anna Taggart, annat223@vt.edu.

5. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, Mar 5, 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.

6. JOIN INCLUSIVE VT ADVISORY COMMUNITY
Thursday, Mar 5, 3:00-5:00pm, Owens Banquet Room
The Advisory Community includes anyone who self-identifies as being an active, intentional, and engaged member in the inclusion efforts of Virginia Tech. The Community will provide feedback to the President’s Inclusion and Diversity Executive Council and university leadership on initiatives and other inclusion and diversity efforts. Join this working session to expand the impact of InclusiveVT! All are welcome, especially individuals and groups currently engaged in programs, services, advocacy, and facilitating inclusion and diversity at Virginia Tech. To assist with logistics, please register at https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3jC3QHJNsleBdPv if you are planning to attend.

7. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT – FREE WEEKLY DROP IN CHILD CARE
Thursdays, 6:00-8:30pm, Women’s Center (206 Washington Street, enter up the stairs in the parking lot)
Need a break? Have to study or attend a lecture? Want to catch up on work? If you are a VT student with children, bring your kids aged 2-12 (must be toilet trained). No need to pre-register. Childcare provided by the volunteers of Chi Delta Alpha sorority. KNO will be held every Thursday throughout the semester when classes are in session. For more information, contact Jessie Meltsner at jmelts@vt.edu, 231-7806.

8. JOIN NEW 30-AND-OVER GRAD GROUP – 1st posting
Welcome to all VT 30-and-over students who sometimes feel out of place in the traditional social circles of school. This group is intended to be social, fun and non-serious. Coffee date? OK. Hiking in the Blue Ridge? Fantastic! Bowling? I’m up for it! Planned events can be accessed through our GoogleGroups site https://groups.google.com/d/forum/VT-over-30. If you are part of a sub group (parents, athletic enthusiast, belly button lint collecting) let the group know and organize events within this group. The idea is to make everyone welcome and get to know other 30 and overs on VT’s campus.

9. VT WOMEN’S AND GENDER STUDIES CONFERENCE: CALL FOR PROPOSALS
The 2015 VT Women’s and Gender Studies (WGS) Student Conference, scheduled for Apr 17, is looking for student presenters. Presentations can be include paper, roundtables, a poster display, performance art, and readings of creative works. This year’s theme is Embodying Resistance: Contemporary Feminist Activism and Scholarship. Abstracts of no more than 250 words identifying the type of research you would like to present are due Friday, Mar 6 to Barbara Ellen Smith (smithbe@vt.edu <mailto:smithbe@vt.edu> ). All submissions should include contact information, including email address, department/major, and degree pursued, for each presenter.

10. CITIZEN SCHOLAR APPLICATIONS INVITED – 1st posting
Have you used your research to benefit society in any way? Are you currently working, or have worked on a project in the past year, that has community impact, either locally or globally? If so, consider applying for the Citizen Scholar award.  If not, consider designing a Citizen Scholar project! Program requirements are described on the CSE website, http://graduateschool.vt.edu/gs/tge/cse.  Applications are due Mar 16.  For more information, email Shelby Ward, shelby08@vt.edu.

11. CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR LATINO LECTURE SERIES – 1st posting
This project aims to provide a space for mentoring relationships to organically occur. Please nominate students to the Latino Lecture Series: students who have turned in a paper, done research on, or can discuss topics specifically related to the Latino community can be nominated to present at this symposium. Nomination process: submit students’ first name, last name, email address, major, and a title for the project, paper, or research to miguelam@vt.edu.

12. BGSO ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR FOUR AWARDS – 2nd posting
The first two awards will be presented to an undergraduate and graduate student that has sustained personal engagement with the VT community. The candidates should have active involvement in campus organizations, service to the community, and/or volunteer work. You can nominate and/or self-nominate a candidate at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1420820436631. The second two awards will be presented to a community and/ or faculty member that has active engagement in the community and/or has demonstrated a lifetime dedication to the betterment of the community. You can nominate and/or self-nominate a candidate at https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1422932997108. Awards will be presented Apr 17, 2015 at the 17th Annual Ebony Affair “Black Excellence: Forging a Prominent Future”; where Dr. Nikki Giovanni will serve as the keynote speaker.

13. GSA TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM’S SPRING APPLICATION CYCLE OPEN MAR 2-22 – 2nd posting
If you’re planning to travel or have traveled to present your research at a scholarly conference between Jan 1 and Jun 30, 2015, consider applying for the Graduate Student Assembly’s Travel Fund Program (TFP). Last year, the TFP provided partial reimbursement of travel and registration expenses to over 200 graduate students. Masters/doctoral students and domestic/international travel are all eligible. Applications accepted for the spring cycle from Monday, Mar 2 8:00am to Sunday, Mar 22 5:00pm. Visit http://blogs.lt.vt.edu/graduatestudentassembly/travel-fund-program/ for details and to apply. Read all the eligibility requirements and the FAQ and check out the GSA’s other programs and opportunities while you’re there! Contact Kasey Richardson, TFP Chair, or Chelsea Corkins, TFP Vice Chair at tfp2014@vt.edu with questions.

14. CALL FOR MEMBERSHIP TO ACADEMY OF GTA EXCELLENCE – 3rd posting
The Academy for GTA Excellence (Academy) invites applications for membership in the Learning Community and advancement into the Academy.  The Academy provides opportunities for graduate students to receive advanced education and training in innovative teaching and learning strategies. It also provides a space to recognize excellence in teaching by graduate students. Membership is open to graduate students at all VT campuses.  For additional information and application: https://blogs.lt.vt.edu/jwrgrad/academy-for-advanced-teaching-and-transforming-learning-aattl/.  Applications are due Monday, Mar 16, 2015. For questions about the Academy, contact Vice President and Dean for Graduate Education Karen P. DePauw (kpdwpauw@vt.edu) or Nicole J. Johnson (nicj712@vt.edu). 

15. SUBMISSIONS INVITED FOR GLC ART & PHOTO CONTEST – 3rd posting
The Graduate School invites submissions of art work and photography by graduate students for display in the GLC during Graduate Education Week (Mar 23-27) and beyond. Submissions are limited to three pieces (art and/or photography) per graduate student. Photos may be submitted online at https://secure.graduateschool.vt.edu/imageupload/ to be printed by the Graduate School. Submission deadline: Tuesday, Mar 17, 2015.  Learn more at http://www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu/contest/.

16. CALLING ALL GRADUATE STUDENT ENTERTAINERS FOR GEW PERFORMANCE – 3rd posting
The Graduate School is seeking students to provide entertainment during the Graduate Education Week Big Cook-out on Friday, March 27. The circus-themed cook-out will run from 4:30-6:30pm on the Graduate School Lawn.  Entertainers needed include face painters, balloon artists, caricature artists, jugglers, or anything that may fit into our theme. To join our slate of performers, please complete this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1422907809572  Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu if you have questions.

17. GLC FELLOW POSITION OPENINGS – 1st posting
Residence Life and the Graduate School are seeking motivated graduate students who are committed to building graduate community, for GLC Fellow positions for the 2015-16 academic year. An ideal candidate would have previous residence life and/or event planning experience, though it is not a requirement. Applicants must submit a formal cover letter, resume and letter of recommendation, as well as complete the following survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1424447226591 . Information about cover letter requirements is at the survey link; full job description is at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. Apply by Mar 27, 2015. Contact Lauren Surface at lkeister@vt.edu or Jacob Soles at jsoles11@vt.edu  if you have questions.

18. GRAD RESIDENTIAL FELLOW (GRF) OPENINGS IN WEST AJ RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE – 1st posting
The West AJ Residential College is a community of 850 multi-generational students ranging from first-year to graduate from all academic disciplines. The GRF is a live-in position with responsibilities that include:  strong presence in the "house" and residential college; know each student living in the house; coordinate activities and experiences that facilitate community and serve the goals of the Residential College; serve as a role model; assist Faculty Principal and Associate Faculty Principal; serve as advisor for House Council; use the provided major on-campus meal plan to attend weekly House Dinners at the D2; facilitate the room and selection process; participate in trainings and meetings; other duties as assigned. Must invest min. 10 hrs/wk within house community; must be FT VT grad student in good academic standing, and have strong affinity for working with people within a residential setting. An interest in strengthening the academic/ intellectual undergraduate experience for a diverse array of students is required. GRFs receive a single room and a major on-campus meal plan and are appointed for a 1-year term, but are eligible for re-appointment for another 1-year term, based on performance. Ideally, a GRF serves in the position for 2 consecutive years. To apply, email letter of interest, resume, & contact information for 3 references to: Amanda Eagan, Assistant Student Life Coordinator, aeagan2@vt.edu.

19. LGBTW YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS WANTED FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 2nd posting
VT researchers are seeking lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer youth and young adults age 13-21 to participate in a project exploring the decision to come out to family as gay, lesbian, bisexual or queer.  The questionnaire and in-depth interview take approximately 2-2.5 hours and participants will receive a $20 gift card. The PI is in the process of developing a program to help youth make safe and successful disclosure decisions to family; this research will help inform that project.  Participation is voluntary and all information associated with this IRB-approved study will remain strictly confidential.  If you have questions or would like to discuss eligibility, please contact the project office by email at VTProjectSMYLE@gmail.com or call (540)-231-4235. You can also check out our Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/VTProjectSMYLE

20. PARENTS OF LGB YOUTH  & YOUNG ADULTS WANTED FOR RESEARCH PROJECT – 2nd posting
VT researchers are seeking parents who have had a child disclose to them in the last five years that they are lesbian, gay or bisexual when the child was 13-21.  The brief questionnaire and in-depth interview take about 1-2 hours and participants will receive a $20 gift card. The principal investigator is in the process of developing a program to help youth make safe and successful disclosure decisions to family; this research will help inform that project. Participation is voluntary and all information associated with this IRB-approved study will remain strictly confidential.  If you have questions or would like to discuss eligibility, please contact the project office by email at VTProjectSMYLE@gmail.com or call (540)-231-4235. You can also check out our Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/VTProjectSMYLE

21. RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR AMBIENT DISPLAYS/TASK MANAGEMENT STUDY – 3rd posting
Participants are sought for a 2-m long research study to observe the use of ambient displays for personal task management information. This study involves the use of an iPad to showcase your Google Calendar events and to-do list activities in an interactive visualization for your use. Over the course of the 8-week study, you will be asked to participate in surveys and interviews to allow researchers to learn about your use of our ambient display system. Upon completion of the study, an interview will take place and iPads will need to be returned. During the study, you will participate in 3 surveys and 1 interview per week, for a total of 24 surveys and 8 interviews. Upon completion of the 8-week period, you will have the option to extend your participation in the study to up to 4 more weeks.  Participation is voluntary; you may discontinue participation at any time. Information collected in all phases of the study will be confidential. If you are interested, email sheriff1@vt.edu to schedule an initial 1-hour meeting about the project, participation, consenting, and iPad distribution. Contact Sheriff Jolaoso at sheriff1@vt.edu with questions.

22. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON SKELETAL MUSCLE A – 3rd posting
Volunteers are sought for a study examining whether endurance training influences skeletal muscle. Participants must be:  non-smoker males; 18-40 yrs old; sedentary, not exercising more than 20 minutes per day, 2 days per week; not currently taking any medications; without any major medical problems; willing to eat a high fat meal; willing to have your blood drawn, a muscle biopsy, and a fitness test. Participants will receive extensive health information and will be compensated $50 per biopsy.  The total amount possible for participation is $100.  If you meet the above requirements and are interested, contact Madlyn Frisard or Mike Tarpey at the Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory at Virginia Tech: (540) 231-9994, frisardm@vt.edu or  tarpeym@vt.edu.

23. PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT FOR STUDY ON SKELETAL MUSCLE B – 3rd posting
Volunteers are sought for a study examining whether endurance training influences skeletal muscle. Participants must be:  non-smoker males; 18-40 yrs old; run an average of 5 hours per week and compete in 2 events in the past 12 months; not currently taking any medications; without any major medical problems; willing to eat a high fat meal; willing to have your blood drawn, a muscle biopsy, and a fitness test. Participants will receive extensive health information and will be compensated $50 per biopsy.  The total amount possible for participation is $100.  If you meet the above requirements and are interested, contact Madlyn Frisard or Mike Tarpey at the Human Integrative Physiology Laboratory at Virginia Tech: (540) 231-9994, frisardm@vt.edu or  tarpeym@vt.edu.

24. RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT ABOUT SOCIAL NETWORKING USAGE – 3rd posting
A VT grad student researcher studying Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW) would like your brief feedback on social networking about Facebook for a class project and personal study.  No information will be shared for research or publication purposes. There is no compensation being offered.  If you are interested in participating or have any questions, contact Chris Frisina at special@vt.edu.

25. SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT – 3rd posting
The Pamplin College of Business is conducting a survey on the start-up culture at Virginia Tech. Help the college better target entrepreneurship resources and funding at Virginia Tech by completing this survey: https://survey.vt.edu/survey/entry.jsp?id=1423773704744. This message is posted on behalf of graduate student Keith Heyde, kcheyde@gmail.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SPRING BREAK
Saturday, Mar 7 – Sunday, Mar 15
For what it’s worth. Not that most graduate students will notice the difference. But maybe parking on campus will be easier for a week?

SHORT STATS COURSES FOR GRADS – SPRING 2015 SCHEDULE
LISA (Virginia Tech’s Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis) provides a series of evening short courses to help graduate students use statistics in their research. The focus of these two-hour courses is on teaching practical statistical techniques for analyzing or collecting data. Registration is required, but all courses are free. Spring 2015 Schedule:

• Tuesday, March 17: Designing Experiments;
• Monday & Tuesday, March 23 & 24: Using ggplot2 to produce enhanced graphics in R;*
• Tuesday, April 7: T-tests & ANOVA;
• Tuesday, April 14: Solutions for Broken Linear Models;

*Two sessions of the same course to accommodate more attendees. Visit the LISA website at http://www.lisa.stat.vt.edu/?q=short_courses for more information about these courses and to register.

BACK TO BASICS: HOW TO BUILD STRONG RELATIONSHIPS
Saturday, Mar 14, 11:00am, The Inn at Virginia Tech
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of DST Sorority Inc invites you to this program to shed light on what it takes to build and maintain a strong foundation in a marriage before and after you say “I do.” Speakers for this program are Pastor Jefferson Jones of Graceway Ministries in Christiansburg, VA and Mr. Lance Franklin and Mrs. Anita Franklin who have provided many with advice that stems from their personal experience and the word of God. After the program there will time for questions, testimonials, and giveaways. Contact Brielle Wright, the Program Planning & Development Chair at 910-991-5385 or via email at ppd@bacdst13.org with any questions.

INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP INFO SESSION
Tuesday, Mar 17, 11:00am– 3:00pm, GLC Room B
Interested in an international opportunity, but not sure how to finance it? Celebrate International Week by learning about scholarship opportunities. The Fulbright, Boren, Gilman, and Critical Language Scholarship programs will be among the opportunities discussed. Members of the Global Education Office and the Office of University Scholarships and Financial Aid will be in attendance. Information sessions will be held hourly at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, and 2:00 and each session will last 30-45 minutes with time for questions. For more information, contact Rebecca Johnson (vtabroad@vt.edu ; 540-231-5888).

JELL-O WITH THE FELLOWS
Tuesday, Mar 17, 4:00-6:00pm, GLC Student Lounge
Learn about the GLC Fellow application process, job requirements, and what life is like as a Fellow. Meet current Fellows, their supervisors, and enjoy some delicious Jell-o treats. Information about the position openings can be found at www.graduatelifecenter.vt.edu. 

WORKSHOP FOR SCIENTISTS AND ARTISTS: MODELING SCIENCE, MODELING IDEAS – register now!
Wednesday Mar 18, 10:00am-12:00pm, Moss Arts Center
With vast improvements in quality and complexity of data in the life sciences, what thinking skills do we need to make sense of what’s there—and to make discoveries? Modeling brings precision and depth to the conceptualizations of biological processes, and embodied learning through "science choreography" catalyzes deconstruction and illumination of the core components and processes in modeling. This hands-on workshop, led by visiting choreographer and MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellow Liz Lerman, is designed especially for mixed groups of artists (theatre and dance) and scientists. No experience necessary. Contact Sarah at sarahhf@vt.edu to sign up. In your message, please indicate if you identify as a scientist, an artist, or both. Limited space is available; slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING MONTHLY
Wednesday, Mar 18, 12:00-1:30pm, GLC Room C
The Parent Support Group is an 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 Wednesday, March 18 in the GLC. Lunch will be served and partners and children are welcome! Contact Andrea with questions at aswenson@vt.edu.

NETWORKING SESSION AND PROFESSIONAL PANEL SEEKS PARTICIPANTS– sign up now!
Saturday, Mar 28, McBryde Hall
The Blacksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc is partnering with the TRiO Programs at Virginia Tech to sponsor this event during the College and Career. The group is seeking individuals from various professional and educational backgrounds to participate on the panel and to be present at the networking session.  If you are interested in participating please email your name, major/degree, work title(s), occupation, email contact information and whether you will be joining for lunch to Brielle Wright at bswright@vt.edu. Please sign up by Thursday, Mar 5. You will receive additional information from the TRiO Programs regarding any additional logistical information.