The Economics Graduate Student Association (EGSA) recently elected new officers for the 2011-2012 academic year. Jesse Strzok (top right) will serve as president, Mark Senia (top left) as vice president, and Adriana Valcu (front) as treasurer.

The officers will focus their term on building and enhancing social connections within the department. They plan to host a spring and fall picnic, periodic Friday evening department social gatherings for students, faculty, and staff, and a mentoring program to help new graduate students better acclimate.

"We want to host activities that we think will help break the ice between people - especially for incoming graduate students," said Strzok.

Officers agree that finding ways to balance their studies with relaxation is important. "It's sometimes hard to break away from our work, but it's good to take some time to get your mind on something else," said Senia.  

EGSA will soon be announcing a department fundraiser to support upcoming social activities. Contact Jesse Strzok (jstrzok@iastate.edu) for more information.