August 9-15, 2021

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Welcome to the Graduate School’s listserv for sharing events, services, administrative announcements and job opportunities for graduate students. Messages are posted on Mondays. Postings must be relevant to graduate students; include the name and contact of the requesting organization or person; not exceed 150 words; not include attachments. Submissions will be edited to fit listserv style and formatting requirements. Email posting requests to grads@vt.edu with “GLC Weekly posting” in the subject line by 5:00pm Friday before the Monday on which the posting is to appear. The GLC Weekly postings are also available at https://webapps.graduateschool.vt.edu/glcweekly/ . If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact the reference in the posting at least 10 business days prior to the event.       

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This Week’s Events:       

0. Ongoing Services – updated 8/2/21  
1. GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT SENATE (GPSS) LISTENING SESSIONS
2. SOFTWARE CARPENTRY WORKSHOPS – DEVELOP COMPUTING AND DATA SKILLS
3. GLC CAFÉ

Administrative Announcements:    
4. REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2021 LEADERSHIP COURSES – 1st posting
5. REGISTER NOW FOR GRAD 5124: RESEARCH SKILLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 2nd posting
6. RESEARCH TOOLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS WORKSHOP SERIES – 2nd posting
7. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE GROUP SEEKS GRAD STUDENT MEMBERS – 3rd posting

Jobs:   
8. GRADUATE ASSISTANT POSITION IN SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS – 1st posting
9. THE INFORMATICS DATA LAB SEEKS GRADUATE ASSISTANT – 1st posting
10. STARTUP HOKIES AMBASSADOR GRADUATE STUDENT POSITIONS – 2nd posting
11. PEACE CORPS CAMPUS RECRUITER GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP- 2nd posting
12. VT CREW TEAM SEEKS COACH – 3rd posting

Volunteers and research participants sought:  
13. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GREEN TAILGATING PROGRAM – 1st posting
14. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR EDUCATION-MEDITATION STUDY – 1st posting
15. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GPSS FALL BBQ – 2nd posting
16. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STORYTELLING STUDY – 2nd posting

Upcoming Events: 
17. GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT SENATE (GPSS) FALL BBQ – August 17
18. COgro TOUR – August 18
19. THE LYRIC THEATRE TOUR – August 19
20. MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME – August 19
21. GRADUATE ORIENTATION – August 20
22. HEALTH INSURANCE SIGN-UP – August 20
23. GAME CHANGER WEEK – August 23-27

0. Ongoing Services – updated 8/2/21       

• GRADUATE SCHOOL: In person drop-off or pick-up of documents and materials M-F 9:00-4:00pm, 120 GLC. Request one-on-one assistantship or academic advising by using our online request form to set-up a Zoom session. Graduate Life Center meeting rooms and lobby are still closed for repair.    
• CAREER ADVISING: schedule virtual career advising appointment via https://career.vt.edu/job-search/Handshake.html        
• COOK COUNSELING: Drop-in Zoom hours, Tuesdays 10am-12pm and Thursdays and Fridays 3pm-5pm, Zoom links found here. To make an appointment, visit: https://vt-ucc.titaniumhwc.com/ScheduleGraduateFirstCookConnect (Students must pay the summer health fee or daily use fee which can be reimbursed through Aetna. Students must be in Virginia) 
• WRITING CENTER SERVICES: Schedule an appointment at https://vt.mywconline.com/         
• GRADUATE OMBUDSPERSON: contact for appointment at gradstudentombud@vt.edu, 540-231-9573        

1. GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT SENATE (GPSS) LISTENING SESSIONS
Variety of dates in August, Zoom
The GPSS Executive Board is holding listening sessions during the first two weeks of August! For new graduate students, this is a great way to meet others in your college and hear about the E-Board’s plans for the new school year. For returning students, this is a place to pitch us ideas for events and new policies, and brainstorm together about how we can make the VT grad student experience better, more engaging, and more inclusive. The person with the best idea suggested in each meeting (as voted on by other attendees) will win a $10 gift card to Southpaw Cafe in downtown Blacksburg. Listening Session dates/times and the Zoom link can be found here: https://gsa.vt.edu/index/2021GPSSListeningSessions.html For more information, email Amanda Burroughs at aburroughs1@vt.edu. If you cannot attend the session for your department but have an idea you’d like to share, email Jack Leff at leffjr@vt.edu. 

2. SOFTWARE CARPENTRY WORKSHOPS – DEVELOP COMPUTING AND DATA SKILLS
Variety of dates in August, Newman Library 207A/Zoom
Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited to join us for two-day workshops on the Unix Shell, Version Control with Git, and Programming in R or Python hosted by the University Libraries. All workshops are introductory-level, cover a range of fundamental skills so you can start working with tools right away, and open to anyone! To learn more about the curriculum, visit Software Carpentry or contact Data Education Coordinator Nathaniel Porter. Visit the Library Calendar to sign up: R for Reproducible Scientific Analysis (Newman Library 207A, August 9-10, 9:00-5:00); Plotting and Programming in Python (Newman Library 207A, August 11-12, 9:00-5:00)

3. GLC CAFÉ
Thursday, August 12, 3:30-5:00pm, Graduate School Lobby/Patio
Enjoy tea, coffee, cookies and conversation with other graduate students. Bring your friends and your own mug if you can.

4. REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2021 LEADERSHIP COURSES – 1st posting
All graduate students are invited to enroll in the following Leadership courses for the Fall 2021 semester:  LDRS 5454 (CRN 91412) virtual: Leadership Diverse Contexts Identification and definition of leadership in formal and non-formal education settings, communities, & organizations. LDRS 5534 (CRN 86596) virtual: Cognitive Problem Solving Pref for Change Theoretical perspectives, processes and techniques utilized in problem solving, both adaptively and innovatively. Individual cognitive preference for working within a prevailing paradigm in order to effect change in institutional structures. Utilizing coping behavior to successfully work within the context of cognitive diversity and organizational change. LDRS 5544 (CRN 86597) virtual: Leading Teams through Change Theory and techniques for leading tactical, creative, and problem-solving teams through change. Role of social capital and adaption-innovation theories. If you have questions about these courses, contact Jerald Walz at jhwalz@vt.edu.

5. REGISTER NOW FOR GRAD 5124: RESEARCH SKILLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 2nd posting
Take your research to the next level! GRAD 5124 (Research Skills for Graduate Students) is a one-credit, fully-online course offered by the University Libraries in fall 2021. Students will develop skills that will prepare them for research in graduate school and beyond and have the option to take the class either for credit or as pass/fail. Four discipline-specific sections are offered, so students should be sure to sign up in HokieSPA for the one that relates to their subject area. Questions should be directed to Lisa Becksford at lisab5@vt.edu.

6. RESEARCH TOOLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS WORKSHOP SERIES – 2nd posting
There’s a lot to learn in graduate school, and the library can help! This fall, the library will offer a series of free workshops (offered live via Zoom) to help you develop the research skills you need to succeed in graduate school. Learn about literature reviews and database searching, citation management, data management, and developing your scholarly presence. For registration links and detailed information about each workshop, visit guides.lib.vt.edu/gradworkshops. 

7. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE GROUP SEEKS GRAD STUDENT MEMBERS – 3rd posting
A group of grad students are seeking to promote environmental justice (EJ) in public policy, especially through robust evaluation methods and standards for infrastructure projects. Right now, we are writing recommendations to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission about how to improve an EJ screening tool used to evaluate the impacts of gas pipeline projects. We’d love more help from people interested in EJ, public health, policy, and modeling — no experience needed. Law students and economists are especially welcome. Get involved by emailing emilyplunkett@vt.edu or coming to our next meeting! We meet every Wednesday at 5:30pm ET over Zoom: https://virginia.zoom.us/j/9169600929?pwd=VGtXcVU3NG8wSjRUYzBTVVZBTU5XUT09 
Find out more about the Virginia Scientist-Community Interface on our website: https://virginiasci.org/ 

8. GRADUATE ASSISTANT POSITION IN SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS – 1st posting
The School of Performing Arts has a graduate assistantship available for the 2021-22 academic year and is looking specifically for someone who has at least a basic knowledge of cinema equipment. The position is responsible for cinema equipment checkout using database software. The assistantship is 9-month, $19,728 stipend, for 20 hours per week. If interested, please email a letter of interest and resume with contact information to Dr. Jacqueline Bixler at jbixler@vt.edu

9. THE INFORMATICS DATA LAB SEEKS GRADUATE ASSISTANT – 1st posting
The Informatics Lab in the Data Services division of the University Libraries is looking to fill a Graduate Assistant (GA) position for the school year 21-22. The student will develop data-related engineering solutions with a focus on machine learning. The student will support funded research projects as well as University Library internal initiatives and will work with the engineering team in the Informatics Lab in a collegial and friendly manner. The position covers tuition and salary at stipend level 15, at minimum, commensurate to experience. The typical workload can go up to 20 hours per week depending on the available projects and deadlines. There is flexibility regarding the workplace (remote or on-campus), however there will be occasional/periodical meetings that will have to be held onsite in Newman Library. A physical work location can be provided in the library if needed. Details about the job requirements can be found in this job post.

10. STARTUP HOKIES AMBASSADOR GRADUATE STUDENT POSITIONS – 2nd posting
The Apex Center for Entrepreneurs is hiring several graduate student workers in support of their new programmatic space downtown (North Main St., above PKs) for the fall and spring semesters.  The “Startup Hokies Ambassador” positions are designed to be fun, high-impact and hands on with student entrepreneurs.  Please see the live posting in Handshake (position #5074762): https://app.joinhandshake.com/postings?page=1&per_page=25&sort_direction=desc&sort_column=default&query=5074762 Contact apexcenter@vt.edu with questions.

11. PEACE CORPS CAMPUS RECRUITER GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIP- 2nd posting
The Center for International Research, Education, and Development (CIRED) at VT is searching for a graduate student who is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer to serve as the part-time Campus Peace Corps Recruiter (20 hours/week). The recruiter will be the main point of contact for people interested in joining Peace Corps. Subject to the availability of funding, the position will begin as early as August 2021 and run through Spring Semester 2022 with the possibility of working through Summer Semester 2022. The successful candidate will receive graduate school tuition remission and a stipend. For further information go to: https://cired.vt.edu/About/job-opportunities.html. Applicants should send a cover letter and CV to  larryjv@vt.edu with the subject heading “Peace Corps Recruiter application”.

12. VT CREW TEAM SEEKS COACH – 3rd posting
The Virginia Tech Crew Team is seeking enthusiastic, dedicated coaches of any level (novice or varsity) to join its staff for the fall 2021 season. The VT Crew Team is a student organization based in Blacksburg, VA that has been operating for 26 years. After great recent success this spring and the promise for future excellence next year, VT Crew is looking for coaches to expand its rapidly growing program. Rowers at VT have experience ranging from novice to 8+ years. Responsibilities include planning and executing an effective training regimen in order to prepare rowers for a competitive racing season and collaborating with student executives to help ensure a well-run program. This program has a great tradition of creating a culture of hard work and dedication among the team. The team is looking to add someone who will strengthen the team in every aspect. The VT Crew Team will provide coaches with coaches’ pay, a travel stipend for regattas, and the opportunity to attend US Rowing coaching clinics. If interested at all, please reach out to Ryan Anderson at 302-519-6514 or rand101299@vt.edu we would love to talk more about this opportunity.

13. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GREEN TAILGATING PROGRAM – 1st posting
Are you passionate about Hokie football and sustainability? Do you enjoy making a difference on campus and greening our planet? If so, then look no further: the Green Tailgate Team needs your help! Our mission is to encourage tailgaters to recycle during home game tailgates. This is done by meeting fans in the tailgating lots and handing out recycling bags. We also inform the tailgaters what can and cannot be recycled (We recycle plastics #1-2 and metal cans). Volunteers will spend an hour to an hour and a half and finish an hour or two before kickoff begins so there is still plenty of time to make it to the game and enjoy some tailgating yourself! Beyond making a difference, volunteers will also receive an awesome Green Tailgate Team t-shirt for free! Sign-up here to pick what day(s) you’re willing to help out: https://forms.gle/DBPpoWrNUd6umuR89

14. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR EDUCATION-MEDITATION STUDY – 1st posting
Do you have a desire to learn more about how to use mindful meditation to cultivate greater focus and emotional control? Join us in a combined neuroscience education and mindful meditation program.
 Dr. Julia Basso and Sarah Lynn, in the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise at Virginia Tech are hosting a study exploring education and meditation. As a participant, you will take a series of questionnaires and tasks before and after a month of pre-recorded, 10 minute online education and mindful meditation videos. The pre and post questionnaires and tasks will take approximately an hour each. As compensation, you will receive the education and meditation program at no cost along with up to a $25 gift card for completion of all program components. If you are interested, please contact Sarah Lynn at mindful.movement.research@gmail.com. VT IRB Protocol # : 20-799

15. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR GPSS FALL BBQ- 2nd posting
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate needs help setting-up and tearing down tables and chairs on Tuesday, August 17 for the Graduate and Professional Student Senate Fall BBQ. Please sign-up to volunteer by Monday, August 16 at noon. Volunteers are needed from 3:30-5pm and 7-8:30pm. Contact Emily Burns at emilyb16@vt.edu with questions or any access needs/accommodation requests.

16. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR VIRTUAL REALITY STORYTELLING STUDY – 2nd posting
The 3D Interaction (3DI) research group at Virginia Tech is seeking participants for a user study on learning immunology through interactive storytelling in immersive virtual reality (VR). In the main study session, participants will first play a storytelling-based VR learning app in an Oculus Quest 2 VR headset for 20-30 minutes, and then complete several questionnaires and answer a few interview questions to give feedback on their VR learning experience. To assess their understanding of the immunology concepts embedded in the VR learning app, participants will be asked to take three short quizzes (multiple-choices) before, right after, and one week after the main study session. The total estimated study time is about 90 minutes. The main study session will be conducted at a research lab in Moss Art Center. Participants will be compensated $20 after completing all activities in the study. The study has been approved by Virginia Tech IRB (IRB# 20-781). For more information please contact Lei Zhang (leiz@vt.edu).

17. GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT SENATE (GPSS) FALL BBQ
Tuesday, August 17, 5-7pm, GLC Lawn
You are invited to the Graduate and Professional Student Senate Free Fall BBQ on the lawn of the Graduate Life Center. Come enjoy free food, outdoor games, and time to chat with fellow graduate students! Feel free to bring friends and family. Bring your Hokie ID for entrance. Please follow the GPSS website for event updates. Contact Emily Burns at emilyb16@vt.edu with questions or any access needs/accommodation requests. 

18. COgro TOUR
Tuesday, August 18, anytime between 11am-1pm, 2200 Kraft Drive, Suite 1050, Blacksburg
Take a tour of COgro, Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center’s premier co-working space that extends the university experience for students to work and study. Students who use COgro will meet professionals in many industries and fields that will help them grow personally and professionally. Stop by anytime between 11am-1pm to see the space, learn how to become a member and what the membership benefits are. All graduate students who participate in this tour will receive one free day pass. COgro is located on the BT bus route. Please sign-up so we know how may to expect: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4NtKQuWMAScgdP8

19. THE LYRIC THEATRE TOUR
Thursday, August 19, 1pm, 135 College Avenue, Blacksburg
The beautiful Lyric Theatre is offering a free tour for graduate students. Participants will be shown the 1930s design and learn about opportunities to volunteer. Everyone who attends will also receive a free movie pass. Please arrive at The Lyric five to ten minutes early. Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2mZnHiRi3jE7hhc 

20. MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME
Thursday, August 19, 4:30-6pm, Owens Ballroom
Connect with faculty, staff, new and returning graduate students and resources that can help you settle in and succeed in Blacksburg. Refreshments and door prizes will be provided! Sign-up here: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eSdCNrSxtJCBuhE

21. GRADUATE ORIENTATION
Friday, August 20, 9-10:30am, Zoom
New, and returning, students are invited to watch orientation either via Zoom or at our orientation watch party in Owens Banquet Hall. Hear from incoming Vice President and Dean for Graduate Education, Dr. Aimee Surprenant, via Zoom, and interact with a graduate student panel. Registration is required for orientation. More information can be found here: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/admissions/orientation.html

22. HEALTH INSURANCE SIGN-UP
Friday, August 20, 10:30-11:30am, Owens Ballroom
After orientation, the Graduate School will host a social hour in Owens Ballroom. Representatives from the Student Medical Insurance Office will be on-site to help students register for health insurance. Learn more about the university’s health insurance plan here: https://www.aetnastudenthealth.com/en/school/474968/index.html

23. GAME CHANGER WEEK
August 23-27, Corporate Research Center
Game changer week will bring together industry disruptors, entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers for a variety of online and in-person events.  Events include webinars, happy hours, start-up mentoring, special guests, open houses, and more! Game Changer Week allows attendees to explore a variety of events specific to tracks such as game changer resources, aerospace and defense, university (VT), biotechnology, software, design and technology, and startups/early seed. Find more details, including how to register, here: https://www.vtcrc.com/about/marketing/gamechangers/