Professional Development Series

Summer 2024 Undergraduate Research Professional Development Series

Steger Center Auditorium (unless otherwise noted)

5/21: Orientation

5/29: Being A Good Mentee

The mentor-mentee relationship plays an important role in cultivating a culture of ethical research and innovation. Students who feel supported by their mentors are often more comfortable asking questions and voicing their concerns, which in turn helps researchers to work through potential issues in a more proactive manner. Join Dr. Lisa Lee, Director of Scholarly Integrity and Research Compliance, to explore ways to make the most of your relationship with your mentor.

6/5: Workshop on Funding Graduate School

There are many means by which you can fund a graduate education, like scholarships, fellowships, and research and teaching assistantships. Join Christina McIntyre, Director of Professional Development and National and International Scholarships with the VT Honors College, to learn more about processes and tips for finding funding for graduate school.

6/12: Graduate School Panel

Faculty and admissions officers from several graduate and professional programs at VT including Vet Med and the Medical School, will share tips for making you a highly competitive candidate for admission. Graduate students will also share their insights and experiences in graduate school, from applying and selecting a faculty advisor, securing funding, and the day-to-day activities that define graduate work.

6/26: VT Graduate School Welcome

The Virginia Tech Graduate School invites you to learn more about its programs through a fun and interactive welcome reception. Attendees will receive a VT graduate school application fee waiver.

7/3: Abstracts and Presentations Workshop

Join Amanda MacDonald from University Libraries to get tips on creating and presenting an effective poster, in preparation for the Summer Undergraduate Research Conference. Bring your draft poster and receive direct one-on-one feedback.

7/10: Writing Your Personal Statement

In this workshop, Dr. Paul Heilker, Associate Professor & Dir. Rhetoric and Writing and Director of the Honors Laureate Program, will lead participants in the stepwise process of crafting an effective personal statement.

7/17: Skill Identification and Resume Writing for Researchers

Join Suzanne Shelburne from VT's Career and Professional Development Center in this workshop to help you identify the key skills you are gaining as a researcher and how best to showcase those on your resume.

7/24: Optional Presentation Practice Session

The peer mentors will serve as your audience as you practice your presentation before the conference.

7/25: Summer Research Conference

Location: Goodwin Hall

The summer culminates with our annual research conference where researchers celebrate a successful summer and showcase their work in poster presentations. Registration and abstracts are due at 5:00 p.m., July 17. More information about the Summer Research Conference, including registration form, is available on the OUR website.