Dear CS Graduate Students, As we begin another semester, I wanted to share some thoughts on finding and switching research advisors. I've discussed these tips and tricks with numerous students during one-on-one meetings. I thought it might be helpful to compile them in written form, hoping that some of you will find them useful. Best regards, Dr. T. Eli Tilevich, Ph.D. Professor and Associate Dept. Head for Graduate Studies Dept. of Computer Science Virginia Tech https://people.cs.vt.edu/tilevich/ https://people.cs.vt.edu/tilevich/ Zoom: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/my/tilevich https://virginiatech.zoom.us/my/tilevich From: Julien, Christine via Gradstudents Sent: Tuesday, January 21, 2025 9:48 AM To: gradstudents@cs.vt.edu Subject: [Gradstudents] Welcome back! Dear CS Graduate Students - Welcome back to campus! I hope this email finds you well-rested, rejuvenated, and ready to embark on another rewarding semester. As we begin the spring term, I want to take a moment to express how thrilled I am to welcome you back to the Department of Computer Science at Virginia Tech. For those who are returning, thank you for your continued dedication to your studies and our department. To our new students joining us this semester, we are delighted to have you as part of our vibrant Hokie community. Your curiosity, innovation, and enthusiasm fuel the success and growth of our department. This semester promises many opportunities to grow academically, professionally, and personally. From groundbreaking research projects to collaborative learning experiences, I encourage you to seize every chance to challenge yourself, connect with peers and faculty, and engage with our dynamic field. A few reminders as we start the term: * Advising and Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to your advisors or professors for guidance. We are here to support your journey and help you achieve your goals. If you need support beyond your direct advisor, please connect with Sara Coulson, Eli Tilevich, or me. * Events and Resources: Keep an eye on departmental newsletters and our website for updates on upcoming seminars https://website.cs.vt.edu/research/Seminars.html , workshops, and career-building events. Coming up soon is a slate of prospective faculty, with seminars on wide-ranging topics covering all aspects of CS. * Community: Join one of our many student organizations or seek out additional research collaborations to deepen your involvement and build lasting connections. As I enter my second semester as department head, I remain deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative, and supportive environment where every student can thrive. Your feedback is invaluable to this effort, and I welcome your ideas on how we can continue to improve your experience. Please don't hesitate to reach out. Thank you for choosing to be part of the Virginia Tech Computer Science family. Let's make this semester one filled with discovery, collaboration, and success. Wishing you all the best this spring, Christine ============= Christine Julien, Professor and Department Head Virginia Tech | Computer Science 1180 Torgersen Hall, 620 Drillfield Drive Blacksburg, VA 24061 (540) 231-9110 | christinejulien@vt.edu mailto:christinejulien@vt.edu If you could benefit from an accommodation for a meeting, please email me, and I will do my best to make arrangements. While it suits me to email now, I do not expect a response or action from you outside of your own working hours.