Last Friday night's successful EGSA fall picnic, held at Brookside Park, generated between 70 to 100 graduate students and faculty (to view the photo gallery, click on the image left). Mark Senia, EGSA Vice President, says the event focused on supporting new graduate students. "Hopefully we're welcoming them to a great first year and a good start."

EGSA's goal for the year is to promote a welcoming atmosphere in the department for graduate students. Jesse Strzok, EGSA President, says "it usually takes time for grad students to mesh." However this year, the incoming group seem to have quickly developed connections. "Feeling relaxed with each other helps because we're always working in groups together on projects," he says.

EGSA will host one more social event this semester, in addition to a soccer group that meets on Saturdays. An intramural sports team may also be in the works. Those interested in playing soccer should contact Vipin Veetil at: vipin@iastate.edu