October 2009 Articles at a Glance

In this month's newsletter:

Coming Soon
Volunteers Needed to Talk to Prospective Tech Parents!
Mid-Semester Workshops Offer Academic Assistance
Free Flu Shots Available for Students
Study & Work Abroad Fair: Where in the World is Your Student Going?
Unleash Your Potential at this Year's Women's Leadership Conference
Go T.E.C.H. Trick-or-Treat Health Week
Taste of Atlanta Comes to Tech

Featured Articles
Peterson Officially Installed as Tech’s 11th President
Crafting the Future of Georgia Tech: An Interview with President G. P. “Bud” Peterson
Supporting Computing Students from Application to Graduation: The Office of Outreach, Enrollment and Community
Homesickness 101: What to Expect and How to Help
The Research Option at Georgia Tech
Dispelling Some Common Myths about Studying Abroad
Tech Rec Offers Inexpensive Fun for Students

Student Perspective
College of Computing: Proving Grounds for Life after Graduation
The Research Option - A Bridge to Graduate Study and Beyond
Life Lessons from Across the Pond

From the Parents Program

Greetings Georgia Tech Parents:

We were delighted to so see many of you during Family Weekend 2009. We had nearly 2,700 Family Weekend attendees, representing 38 states and 2 countries outside of the United States. We thank those who participated in Family Weekend Parent Volunteer Day, the Parents Advisory Board, the Division of Student Affairs, and the Family Weekend Planning Committee. Without their assistance, Family Weekend 2009 could not have happened!

While we may be deep into the fall semester, there are plenty of opportunities available for your student to get involved. Whether it is participating in Homecoming 2009 events, attending an academic support workshop, meeting esteemed alumna at the Women’s Leadership Conference, or learning about the adventures available through the Office of International Education, your student can explore all the enriching possibilities available at Georgia Tech. Read on for more details!

Warmly,
Kimberly Sterritt
Director, Parents Program

Volunteers Needed to Talk to Prospective Tech Parents!

The Parents Program and the Office of Admissions have several upcoming volunteer opportunities for current Tech parents to connect with prospective families. Your involvement is vital for the Institute to successfully engage families, answer questions and make their visit a positive experience. We are seeking volunteers for the following events:

Connect With Tech:
Sunday, October 25       
Time: 5:15  – 6:15 p.m.             
Location: Bill Moore Success Center, adjacent to Bobby Dodd Stadium         
Activity: Meet prospective parents and answer questions.

Women’s Reception:
Sunday November 15
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Bill Moore Success Center, adjacent to Bobby Dodd Stadium
Volunteer Activity: Staff table with Parents Program materials and talk with prospective parents about your experiences as a parent of a female Tech student.

Our goal is to make these potential parents feel welcome and informed as they visit campus. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Kim Sterritt at ksterritt@gatech.edu with the session(s) and date(s) for which you are available. Additional details will be provided to volunteers in the upcoming weeks.  


Mid-Semester Workshops Offer Academic Assistance

On Monday, October 12 at 2:00 p.m. in the Student Center’s Crescent Room, the Office of Success Programs is conducting a “To Drop or Not to Drop: Making Informed Academic Decisions” workshop to assist students navigate the decision whether to drop or remain in a class. This workshop will be facilitated by Dr. Dana Hartley, director of Undergraduate Studies.  Please click here for more information on these mid-semester workshops.

In addition, students who received “U”s on their Progress Reports are strongly encouraged to receive Academic Coaching. Students may also receive extra 1-to-1 Tutoring sessions at no additional cost. Students can make appointments online.


Free Flu Shots Available for Students

As you are likely aware, influenza is currently a hot topic for the health and safety at Georgia Tech. The Stamps Health Services is once again planning a robust seasonal flu campaign to aid in protecting the campus community. 

Seasonal flu vaccine is not for 2009 H1N1 (swine flu). It is, however, one measure to protect from additional influenza viruses likely to circulate in our community this winter. Due to manufacturer conditions, we will have a limited supply of seasonal flu vaccine. Based upon current information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2009 H1N1 vaccine may begin to be available in late October or early November.  

This year online appointments can be made by students, faculty and staff in advance of the vaccine clinics. Students should go to www.myappointment.health.gatech.edu to schedule appointments. Students may register with their standard Georgia Tech log in. There is no charge for students and spouses who have paid the student health fee.

Date, locations and hours are listed below. All locations are in the Student Center.

Date                Location              Hours
October 13       Crescent Room     9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
October 14       Crescent Room     9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
October 15       Piedmont Room    9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
October 20       Crescent Room     9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
October 21       Benefit Fair          10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
October 22       Piedmont Room    9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
October 28       Crescent Room     9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.


Study & Work Abroad Fair: Where in the World is Your Student Going?

Students should mark their calendar to attend the 2009 Study & Work Abroad Fair on Tuesday, October 20 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.

The Study & Work Abroad Fair is an annual event that showcases information about the various study and work abroad opportunities available to students through Georgia Tech, Georgia Tech’s exchange partners, and other universities within the University System of Georgia. This year, more than fifty programs/companies will attend, ready to answer your student’s questions.

Georgia Tech offers more than 100 study abroad programs whose destinations span across the globe. Each year more than 1,000 students take advantage of study abroad or work abroad opportunities. Whether a student is looking to improve language skills, fulfill credits toward a major, or intern with an international employer, the Study & Work Abroad Fair is a great place to explore the possibilities. We encourage all students to attend!


Unleash Your Potential at this Year's Women's Leadership Conference

"Unleash Your Potential and Impact the World" at this year's Women's Leadership Conference, held October 23-24 at Georgia Tech. Each year an impressive committee of female students plans an empowering two-day conference that attracts 300 to 400 women. Friday evening opens as a tribute to Georgia Tech women's leadership with an alumna speaker, Teresa Smith IM ’83, and the Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony. Saturday continues with two keynote speakers - Beverly Seay and Betsy Myers - and three workshop sessions.

Early-Bird Registration (ends October 9): $25
$10 GT student rate

Regular Registration (ends October 16): $30
$15 GT student rate

This fee includes three keynote speakers, three workshop sessions, a networking reception, three catered meals and a conference gift - a value of more than $100 per participant. Moms, grandmothers, aunts, and sisters encouraged to attend with their student! For more information, visit the Women’s Leadership Conference Web site www.gtwlc.com.


Go T.E.C.H. Trick-or-Treat Health Week

Go T.E.C.H., a campus-wide health initiative, will be hosting a student kick-off event “Go T.E.C.H. Trick-or-Treat Health Week” the week of October 26-30.

Plans are in high gear to host interactive and health-related events for students that will include the following:

• Healthy Organizations Fair on October 27 on Skiles Walkway, including demos, free massages, and information on health and wellness.
• The Souls of Black Girls, a documentary on race and self-image disorder sponsored by the Georgia Tech Body Image Committee.
• Free G.I.T. FIT Drop-in Group Fitness classes for students.
• Free flu shots offered by appointment at Stamps Health Services.
• Safe Sister Ally Training with the Women’s Resource Center. 
• A Blood Drive hosted by MOVE, the American Red Cross Club, and Phi Gamma Delta.
• “Halloween Holla” Run/Walk at 7:00 a.m. on October 30 hosted by the Campus Recreation Center (CRC).

Visit www.gotech.gatech.edu, for the full calendar of events and new features this fall including fitness podcasts, a health blog, and a monthly newsletter.


Taste of Atlanta Comes to Tech

Taste of Atlanta, Atlanta’s premier food festival is moving to Tech Square in Midtown October 10 and 11. More than 80 of Atlanta’s favorite restaurants will serve up their specialties and this is your chance to sample them all! From tapas to Thai, grilled to Greek, saucy to sweet – whatever you crave, you will find it at Taste of Atlanta. Enjoy cooking demonstrations from local and national celebrity chefs, kid’s activity area, live music as well as the Farm 2 Festival Village and Farmers Market. Upgrade to a VIP ticket for admission into the Wine and Beer Experience featuring tastings and seminars from top industry professionals. As a special bonus, each day the first 500 VIP ticket holders at the festival will receive a Taste of Atlanta gift bag. Tickets are on sale now at www.tasteofatlanta.com or charge by phone at 877.725.8849.

Peterson Officially Installed as Tech’s 11th President

Robert Nesmith
Communications & Marketing

President Bud Peterson was officially installed as Tech’s 11th president during the Institute investiture ceremony held Sept. 3. Students, alumni, faculty and staff—along with representatives from other institutions around the state and country—attended the ceremony.

Alumnus Bill Todd, president and CEO of the Georgia Cancer Coalition, welcomed the crowd to Alexander Memorial Coliseum and introduced the major speakers throughout the event. Ceremony, Todd said, is an “important ritual that allows [the Institute] to look back while looking forward. This place is filled with leaders of all types—some are leaders today, and others are the leaders of tomorrow.” Read entire article...


Crafting the Future of Georgia Tech: An Interview with President G. P. “Bud” Peterson

Rachael Pocklington
Communications Officer, Parents Program

Last summer, I had the opportunity to interview Dr. G.P. “Bud” Peterson, president of Georgia Tech, to ask him both about his experiences since his arrival and his plans for the future of Georgia Tech. The following are excerpts from that conversation. 

Since you arrived at Tech last April, I imagine your time here has been very exciting and immensely informative. Thus far, what are your impressions of Georgia Tech?

Yes, it has been tremendous! I am extremely impressed with Tech as an institute, the students, faculty and staff, and of course the overall community. Every university has a culture, and I am learning that Tech’s culture is very unique. Last July, we embarked upon a series of “road trips” visiting with alumni groups, rotary clubs, local papers, school district representatives, chambers of commerce and legislators. In one instance, we conducted thirteen events, in seven cities, over two days! Our mission was to learn from these stakeholders across the state how Tech is currently fulfilling their needs and which areas we need to improve in the future. Read entire article...


Supporting Computing Students from Application to Graduation: The Office of Outreach, Enrollment and Community

However, the transition can be difficult and unnerving even for prepared students and their families. The College of Computing’s Office of Outreach, Enrollment and Community (OEC), helps students and their families manage the jump from high school to a modern research university like Georgia Tech. Read entire article...


Homesickness 101: What to Expect and How to Help

Irene E. Dalton, Ph.D.
Staff Psychologist, Counseling Center

It is normal for your student to experience some degree of homesickness after leaving home for the first time. The familiar environment of home provides a sense of comfort and security, and many students find themselves missing their family, friends, pets, and other comforting objects from home. A new, unfamiliar environment can be stressful and even frightening for some. The good news is that homesickness will often run its course and the intensity will decrease over time, as your student becomes more comfortable and confident in the new surroundings. As a parent, you can support your student and help him/her cope with homesickness by suggesting a few simple strategies. Read entire article...


The Research Option at Georgia Tech

Karen Harwell, Ph.D.
Director, Undergraduate Research

With the Georgia Tech Research Option, students are afforded a unique opportunity for intensive, hands-on research experiences as undergraduates. This opportunity provides students with several semesters of research on one project, culminating in an original thesis or research paper. Research Option students work one-on-one with faculty members, and students are encouraged to present their final work to faculty and their peers. Read entire article...


Dispelling Some Common Myths about Studying Abroad

Kelley Folkening
Office of International Education

Let’s take a few moments to talk about some common myths about study abroad. The truth is there are many opportunities for Georgia Tech students to experience amazing adventures in different parts of the world while earning credits toward their degree. So…what’s stopping your student? Read entire article...


Tech Rec Offers Inexpensive Fun for Students

Sarah Gilbreath
Georgia Tech Auxiliary Services Communications

One of the best deals in Atlanta is right in the heart of campus – Tech Rec! The recreation center is fully equipped with a pool hall, bowling alley, lounge, and gaming station, not to mention favorites like table tennis, air hockey, and foosball. Plus, the price is unbeatable; everything is less than $5, with special deals almost every day! Read entire article...

College of Computing: Proving Grounds for Life after Graduation

John Nickerson
Senior Consultant at Capgemini
Alumnus '07, Computer Science

The Georgia Tech College of Computing (CoC) can be, to some, a hurdle that they must leap before completing their degree. But for many students, the CoC serves as a place where they can use their passion and their skills to achieve practically any of their interests. During my years at Georgia Tech as an undergrad, the CoC became my home away from home; always open for business, and always ready to present new challenges. Read entire article...


The Research Option - A Bridge to Graduate Study and Beyond

Dianne K Palladino
Georgia Tech Alumna, Psychology '08
Doctoral Student at Carnegie Mellon University - Social and Health Psychology

Planning to attend graduate school can be a daunting activity. It can take months, or even a year or more, to collect everything necessary to complete a successful application. Sometimes even the most qualified are not admitted due to budget constraints and factors that are based little on the application credentials. It can be frustrating for students, but participation in the Research Option at Georgia Tech gives students an added advantage. This benefit applies not only to applying to graduate school, but also to success in a graduate program and beyond. I was part of the second group of students at Georgia Tech to complete the Research Option requirements, and I have found the experience instrumental in shaping who I am today. Read entire article...


Life Lessons from Across the Pond

Kristen Murphy
Third-year, College of Management

When I came to Georgia Tech as a freshman in the fall of 2007, I knew that I wanted to study abroad at some point during my time at Tech. After finishing my first year and doing some research about the different study abroad programs offered through the Georgia Tech Office of International Education, I applied for the University of Leeds exchange program in Leeds, England. I wanted to go to England (mostly because of my lack of foreign language skills) and take classes outside of my major to experience something different from life as a Georgia Tech student. What I wasn’t prepared for was how utterly different my experience would be. Read entire article...