Workshops

Learn tools and techniques to make your research more efficient and enjoyable and to help you produce innovative creations. Most workshop sessions are 50 minutes with hands-on practice, so you can apply what you have learned immediately to your projects. Click on the gold box below to see the dates each workshop is offered and then click on Read more for a complete description and to sign up for the workshop.

Be sure to check the schedule before the workshop date for any updates or changes to the posted times or locations.

Alkek Events & Workshops

Expand Event List

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OPENtxst: Openly Licensed & Copyrighted Creative Content for Your Scholarly Works
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Location:
Zoom Meeting; Zoom Meeting
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Tara Spies Smith, ts20@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Come to this workshop and learn about copyright and openly licensed creative content, and how to find and use openly licensed images, music, and video and other open access content using public domain/open access image websites, the library’s image/video/music databases, and books. Learn how to properly give credit or attribution to copyrighted or open access content and how to give your scholarly work, creations, and designs a Creative Commons license. Presentation tips and tech tools that can make your presentations and publications more professional and visually interesting will be also be covered.

This session is online to be more accessible and flexible. Please register in Sign-up to receive the zoom link to attend the workshop. Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Library Hacks
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Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
Learn the secrets of successful graduate students. In just one hour, you will understand advanced search queries, effective research, database tricks, and library services you never knew existed.
This workshop covers finding unique databases, identifying important articles through citation analysis, using citation management tools, exploring a topic with knowledge graphs, and locating opportunities for publishing your scholarship and building your research identity.

Presented by: Jess Williams, Assistant Director, University Libraries


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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Alkek One Unity Game Development Workshop Series
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Location:
Alkek One DesignSpace (open floor area across from the ITAC Help Desk); DesignSpace
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Julian Delarosa, jjd95@txstate.edu

Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu

Dr. Elizabeth Hambleton, ejhambleton@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This 12-session workshop series will give an overview of the Unity Realtime Development Platform. Students will learn how to use the platform and other software to create a video game from scratch. Students will also learn about the game development process and come out of this course with a working game demo and experience of the game dev pipeline. Attendance at all 12 sessions is required. Students can earn multiple NASA-issued micro-credentials (digital badges) for completing the work associated with this series.
Topics include:
  • Introduction to the Unity Platform IDE
  • Introduction to C# scripting
  • Models, Textures and Multimedia
  • Visual UI, Art, Animation
  • Audio Development
  • Working with a Team
  • Game Development Pipeline Basics
This course is in-person only. Some exposure to programming is required in any language (IF statements, FOR loops, Arrays).

This session meets 12 times:
Wednesday, August 30, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, September 6, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, September 13, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, September 20, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, September 27, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, October 4, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, October 25, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, November 1, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, November 8, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM Click here for more information
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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Design to Fabrication
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Location:
Alkek One MakerSpace; ALK 102 & ALK 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Noah Brock, nszb3@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Participants will learn basic design principles and use them to fabricate a 3-Dimensional object. This process will step through the complete prototyping process from sketches, maquettes, translation into design software, and fabrication of a finished object in the Alkek MakerSpace. Students will have the opportunity to fabricate their product using a laser cutter, waterjet, or 3D printer.

The class will meet once a week for four weeks. YOU MUST ATTEND ALL 4 SESSIONS.

Friday, September 1, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM
Friday, September 8, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM
Friday, September 15, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM
Friday, September 22, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM

Upon completion of this workshop, you will receive a micro-credential badge in Canvas. Click here for more information
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Ghostlight: Photographs by Keith Carter
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Location:
The Wittliff Collections / Alkek Library; 7th Floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Michael Harrison
mh43@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Wittliff Collections
Join us as we celebrate the photography of Keith Carter and the release of his latest book, Ghostlight. Dubbed a “poet of the ordinary” by the Los Angeles Times, Carter has spent a lifetime exploring humanity’s landscape through his artistic lens. His series Ghostlight captures the other worldly spirits of swamps, marshes, bogs, baygalls, bayous, and fens. 
 
Reception and book sales at 2pm, program begins at 2:30, with book signing to follow.
RSVP HERE
 
Keith Carter, photograph by Cathy Spence

Want to know more about the book? Click here for more information
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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Introduction to Video and Audio Editing
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Location:
Alkek One; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Kira L Wright, kirawright@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Learn to edit video and audio, including: making cuts, generating graphics, replacing a green screen, and enhancing audio quality in Premiere Rush and Premiere Pro. No experience required for this immersive five day workshop!
The class will meet twice a week for two weeks. There is a 3rd day set aside for office hours to meet with the instructor if needed. YOU MUST ATTEND ALL 4 TUESDAY AND THURSDAY MEETINGS.

Tuesday, September 12, 2023, 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Thursday, September 14, 2023, 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Thursday, September 21, 2023, 4:00PM - 5:30PM

Upon completion of this workshop, you will receive a micro-credential badge in Canvas.
  Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Classic Console Repair
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Location:
AlkekOne; AlkekOne
Cost:
Free
Contact:
William Cates avx2@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop is an introduction to electrical repair.

In this workshop you will have an opportunity to open, analyze, solder, and repair a retro video game console. You will use screwdrivers, multimeters, soldering irons, flux, and Google. You will not need to bring anything but closed toe shoes and short sleeve shirts.

TIP: Before the workshop, look up the difference between a resister, capacitor, and diode. Click here for more information
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Stress and Anxiety Management
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Stress and anxiety are a particularly common barrier for all researchers, but especially for those who are balancing student life and researcher life. This workshop presents a discussion of the science behind stress/anxiety and tools for managing them. The talk also guides attendees regarding what stressors they may encounter as student researchers. Additionally, attendees will work together to create a personal stress management plan. Click here for more information
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Alkek One Micro-Credential: 3D Animation with Cascaduer
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Location:
Alkek One; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Cascadeur is a standalone software for animation of any kind of character. Animation is easy and fun thanks to its AI-assisted tools. You can make key poses really fast, instantly see physical result and adjust secondary motion. All while retaining full control of your character.

NASA uses animation to demonstrate concepts that haven't been done yet and in training simulations. NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio works closely with scientists to create visualizations, animations, and images that promote a greater understanding of Earth and Space Science research activities: svs.gsfc.nasa.gov.

This is a beginner friendly workshop. Click here for more information
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Evie Shockley Reading and Q&A
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Location:
The Wittliff Collections / Alkek Library
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Name: Bianca Alyssa Pérez
Email: mfinearts@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Department of English

Evie Shockley is the author of two books of poetry, the new black and a half-red sea, and two chapbooks, 31 words * prose poems and The Gorgon Goddess. the new black won the 2012 Hurston/Wright Legacy Award in Poetry and was also recognized by Library Journal as one of the Best Books of 2011 in Poetry and by the BCALA as a 2012 Honor Book in Poetry. Her poems have appeared as well in numerous journals and anthologies.

Reading @ 3:30pm with the class/generative sesion to follow

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Imposter Syndrome
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Having an accurate self-concept is one of the most important factors for a successful researcher, as well as a successful student. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to give ourselves credit for the skills we possess and the talents we have spent years accumulating. In this session we will cover the importance of an accurate and healthy self-concept and the different types of social and academic capital we bring with us to the research setting (from Yusso and Tinto's work on student capital and persistence). Attendees will identify the types of capital and expertise they bring with them to their research experiences to construct a healthy self-concept. They will also discuss combating negative self-talk. Click here for more information
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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Discovering GIS
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Location:
Alkek 105 (GeoSpace) or Zoom; Alkek 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Nathaniel Dede-Bamfo, nd1115@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Register for this 5-session long workshop to learn the basics of GIS using the ArcGIS Pro software, the world’s most popular software for exploring, analyzing, editing, and sharing (via the internet) maps and GIS data. This workshop is open to all with no prior knowledge of GIS or those who will like to refreshen their knowledge after a long break from using GIS.

Topics:
➢ Session 1: Intro to GIS & Map Design
➢ Session 2: Table Joins & Data Query
➢ Session 3: Geocoding
➢ Session 4: Spatial Statistics
➢ Session 5: StoryMapping

REGISTRANTS MUST ATTEND AND COMPLETE ALL 5 SESSIONS TO RECEIVE AN ALKEK ONE MICRO-CREDENTIAL BADGE.

Monday, September 18, 2023, 1:00PM - 3:00PM
Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 1:00PM - 3:00PM
Wednesday, September 20, 2023, 1:00PM - 3:00PM
Thursday, September 21, 2023, 1:00PM - 3:00PM
Monday, September 25, 2023, 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Please note that this session is hybrid thus, you can join either in-person (Alkek 105) or online via Zoom. However, participants who join online are expected to have the required software, ArcGIS Pro, already installed on their computer prior to attending this workshop. Please visit the link below to find how to access ArcGIS Pro at Texas State University:
*** itac.txstate.edu… *** Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Managing Research Data: A Guide to Good Practice
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Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
Sound data management practices can ensure long-term usability of your data, increase your productivity, and promote collaboration. Learning and adapting a few good habits can go a long way in managing your data. In this webinar, you’ll be introduced to tips for managing data, resources through Texas State University, as well as best practices for workflows, file management, documentation, storage, and preservation. This workshop is helpful for researchers in any discipline and stage in their career. Attendees currently planning or conducting research will benefit most from this workshop.

Presented by: Xuan Zhou, Data Curation Specialist, University Libraries


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Using AI for Literature Reviews
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Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
Literature Reviews are time consuming and often overwhelming, but new artificial intelligence (AI) tools can streamline the process. This workshop will introduce various tools for finding and evaluating sources, viewing connected citations through visual knowledge maps, and organizing your findings for pre-writing. Ethical considerations and best practices for research-related prompt engineering will also be discussed.  

Presented by: Jess Williams, Assistant Director, University Libraries


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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Life, Death & Writing on the Edge: A Conversation at The Wittliff
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Location:
The Wittliff Collections / Alkek Library; 7th Floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Michael Harrison
mh43@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Wittliff Collections
Join acclaimed writers Reyna Grande, Celeste Bedford Walker, and Dick J. Reavis in conversation at The Wittliff about WRITING ON THE EDGE. Moderated by literary curator Steven L. Davis, this event commemorates The Wittliff’s new exhibition, I Pray You Stay Alive: Writing on the Edge.

RSVP HERE

More info. Click here for more information
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Self-Efficacy and Motivation
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Self-efficacy—the confidence that you can complete a task—and motivation are linked in unique ways. Your self-efficacy can be influenced by how small or large a task is, while the same can be said about your motivation to complete your goals. This presentation will help students understand the science behind managing motivation and improving self-efficacy. Attendees will also be given the opportunity to understand what motivates them about being a student researcher, what their goals are, and how to create SMART goals. Click here for more information
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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Blender 3D Bootcamp
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Location:
Alkek One; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
A beginner friendly workshop creating a robotic arm using Blender 3D.
NOTE: Workshop is 2 hours for 4 days over 2 weeks.
This NASA Badged workshop is introductory-level 3D modeling, unwrapping, rigging, and animation using Blender. NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio works closely with scientists to create visualizations, animations, and images that promote a greater understanding of Earth and Space Science research activities: svs.gsfc.nasa.gov.

Monday, September 25, 2023, 3:00PM - 5:00PM
Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, September 27, 2023, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
  Click here for more information
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Friendly Feedback: Peer Review and the Research Process
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Location:
Online via Zoom; Alkek 452 or Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Kristen Van Diest, kvandiest@txstate.edu
Dr. Erin Dorrell, erin.dorrell@txstate.edu
Gabriella Alderete-Cruz, g_a95@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Are you thinking about achieving success in academia, or how to improve your research skills? Well, the peer-review process is a great way to tack both of those things. Going through the peer-review process can improve your skills as both a researcher and writer, while also impacting the rigor of your field.
Come to this presentation to learn more about the basics of peer-review and how you can get started with it. Click here for more information
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Future Maker Accelerator Entrepreneurship Program - Building Your Team
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Location:
Alkek Library; Alkek One technology studios on the first floor of Alkek
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Shannon Weigum
Co-Director
TXST Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
sweigum@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
ABOUT THE ACCELERATOR
Produced in partnership with the Texas State Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship, the first Future Maker Accelerator is being hosted at Alkek One on the first floor of the Alkek Library. Alkek One offers a wide variety of creative technologies that program participants can use to create or develop business ideas.

Whether you are looking to create an individual side hustle or get VC funded and build the next world-changing corporation, this program will help you assess the pros and cons of entrepreneurship, evaluate next best steps, and prepare to pitch potential customers and investors. This program is open to all members of the community thanks to a generous grant from the Alkek Foundation.

The flexible structure of the program allows participants to start on any workshop date, pick up wherever they leave off, and attend weekly support sessions for small group and individual coaching.

PROGRAM DETAILS
Saturday Workshops Topics Include:
  1. Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  2. Developing Your Business Model
  3. Building Your Team
  4. Pitching Your Business
Open Office Hours and Pitch Practice sessions will be held on the Tuesday and Thursday following each Saturday Workshop. 

Summer/Fall PROGRAM SCHEDULE
4-hour Weekly Workshops will be held on select Saturdays at Alkek One from 1pm – 5pm, based on the university’s Academic Calendar.

Here are the currently scheduled workshops for 2023:
  • July 15 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • July 22 – Developing Your Business Model
  • Sep 30 – Building Your Team
  • Oct 7 – Perfecting Your Pitch
  • Nov 11 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • Nov 18 – Developing Your Business Model
Open Office Hours will be held from 9am – 11am on the Tuesday and Thursday morning following each Saturday workshop.

Pitch Practice will be from 3pm – 5pm on the Thursday afternoon following each Saturday Workshop. Click here for more information
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Banned Books Week Display
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Location:
2nd Floor of Alkek Library; 2nd floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Taylor Glover, taylorglover@txstate.edu
512-408-5122
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Banned Books Week is Oct 1-7! Come check out our display of banned books. If you are a banned book rebel, take a mug-shot selfie and share on Instagram with the hashtag #txstbannedbooksweek.

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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Intro to Podcasting
add to calendar
Location:
AlkekOne; AlkekOne
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Elizabeth Hambleton, ejhambleton@txstate.edu
Kira Wright, kirawright@txstate.edu
Tricia Boucher, squirrel@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
The primary aim of this series of workshops is to learn how to create a podcast episode using Audacity. Students will learn credible research skills, effective storytelling and interviewing skills, recording techniques, along with audio editing basics.

This is a four-day workshop. You will be required to attend all four sessions in order to earn the micro-credential badge.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Thursday, October 5, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Tuesday, October 10, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM
Thursday, October 12, 2023, 4:00PM - 6:00PM Click here for more information
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Research at Alkek
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Location:
Alkek Library; 440
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Alkek has a wonderful assortment of resources for research that are available to students. Attendees will learn about the various ways they can conduct research through Alkek Library and about the research staff who are available to give them support. Click here for more information
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Future Maker Accelerator Entrepreneurship Program - Perfecting Your Pitch
add to calendar
Location:
Alkek Library; Alkek One technology studios on the first floor of Alkek
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Shannon Weigum
Co-Director
TXST Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
sweigum@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
ABOUT THE ACCELERATOR
Produced in partnership with the Texas State Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship, the first Future Maker Accelerator is being hosted at Alkek One on the first floor of the Alkek Library. Alkek One offers a wide variety of creative technologies that program participants can use to create or develop business ideas.

Whether you are looking to create an individual side hustle or get VC funded and build the next world-changing corporation, this program will help you assess the pros and cons of entrepreneurship, evaluate next best steps, and prepare to pitch potential customers and investors. This program is open to all members of the community thanks to a generous grant from the Alkek Foundation.

The flexible structure of the program allows participants to start on any workshop date, pick up wherever they leave off, and attend weekly support sessions for small group and individual coaching.

PROGRAM DETAILS
Saturday Workshops Topics Include:
  1. Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  2. Developing Your Business Model
  3. Building Your Team
  4. Pitching Your Business
Open Office Hours and Pitch Practice sessions will be held on the Tuesday and Thursday following each Saturday Workshop. 

Summer/Fall PROGRAM SCHEDULE
4-hour Weekly Workshops will be held on select Saturdays at Alkek One from 1pm – 5pm, based on the university’s Academic Calendar.

Here are the currently scheduled workshops for 2023:
  • July 15 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • July 22 – Developing Your Business Model
  • Sep 30 – Building Your Team
  • Oct 7 – Perfecting Your Pitch
  • Nov 11 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • Nov 18 – Developing Your Business Model
Open Office Hours will be held from 9am – 11am on the Tuesday and Thursday morning following each Saturday workshop.

Pitch Practice will be from 3pm – 5pm on the Thursday afternoon following each Saturday Workshop. Click here for more information
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Therapy Dogs
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Location:
Library - 2nd Floor; Main Floor (2nd)
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Sylvia T Gonzales, Assistant Director
Community Partnerships, stg39@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Therapy dogs have been visiting the Texas State campus since 2013. At each visit students get to meet and play with furry friends from Divine Canines. It's a great way to relieve stress and get some awesome puppy kisses! Don't miss this fun event!

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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Blender 3D Bootcamp
add to calendar
Location:
Alkek One; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Harley Miller, harley@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
A beginner friendly workshop creating a robotic arm using Blender 3D.
NOTE: Workshop is 2 hours for 4 days over 2 weeks.
This NASA Badged workshop is introductory-level 3D modeling, unwrapping, rigging, and animation using Blender. NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio works closely with scientists to create visualizations, animations, and images that promote a greater understanding of Earth and Space Science research activities: svs.gsfc.nasa.gov.

Monday, October 9, 2023, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Monday, October 16, 2023, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023, 2:00PM - 4:00PM
  Click here for more information
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Self-Regulatory Research Skills
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Self-regulation is a category of skills related to monitoring and regulating your behavior, thinking, and emotions to be able to reach your goals. Although self-regulation is most often discussed regarding increasing student success, it can also be instrumental for increasing your success as a researcher. This session will cover areas of self-regulation (time management, self-talk, metacognitive strategies) and how they can affect research progress and relationships with co-researchers. Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Making with Fabric
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Location:
Alkek One Makerspace; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Hithia Davis, hd13@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
We will introduce you to some sewing basics and show you the first steps in using a sewing machine. Click here for more information
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Research Methods Overview: Quantitative, Qualitative, Mixed Methods
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
They key to a successful research project is using the appropriate research methodology. In this overview session, we will discuss data collection and analysis methods associated with some of the most common types of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research. This will enable attendees to understand what approaches may be most appropriate to engage with their research questions and hypothesis for current and future projects. Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Classic Console Repair
add to calendar
Location:
AlkekOne; AlkekOne
Cost:
Free
Contact:
William Cates avx2@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop is an introduction to electrical repair.

In this workshop you will have an opportunity to open, analyze, solder, and repair a retro video game console. You will use screwdrivers, multimeters, soldering irons, flux, and Google. You will not need to bring anything but closed toe shoes and short sleeve shirts.

TIP: Before the workshop, look up the difference between a resister, capacitor, and diode. Click here for more information
more about event

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Alkek One: Making Sound from Scratch
add to calendar
Location:
Alkek One; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Elizabeth Hambleton, ejhambleton@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
A crash course in audio synthesis and sound design. Participants will learn the fundamentals of making complex sounds from the four most basic types of soundwave, how to make a sequencer patch to make electronic music, and get inside the thought process of film and video game sound designers. Participants are encouraged to bring a pair of wired headphones to the workshop. Please contact the instructor, Dr. Elizabeth Hambleton, at ejhambleton@txstate.edu with any questions. Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Introduction to Open
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Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
This workshop covers the basics of the Open ecosystem! We’ll touch on everything open – from Open Educational Resources (OER) and Open Pedagogy to Open Access and Open Publishing. We’ll also look at resources here at Texas State that support you in these areas and how to begin looking for resources on your own.  

Presented by: Isabelle Antes, Open Educational Resources Librarian, University Libraries


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Exploring Open Source GIS I
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Location:
ALK 105; Alkek Geospace ALK 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Nathaniel Dede-Bamfo, nd1115@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Learn how to conduct spatial analysis or create maps using a free and open source GIS software: QGIS. This workshop is open to all with no prior knowledge in GIS or those who will like to refreshen their knowledge after a long break from using GIS.

Since this workshop is hybrid (both in-person and online), participants who join via online (zoom) are expected to have the required software QGIS, already installed on their computer prior to attending this workshop.

Please visit the link below to download a copy of the QGIS software:
*** www.qgis.org… *** Click here for more information
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Game Night
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Location:
Alkek Library, Room 441/442; 441/442
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Karina Martin, cby24@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Take a study break or come meet some friends for the library game night! You can bring your own games or use some of the library games.  

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Alkek One: Exploring Open Source GIS II
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Location:
ALK 105; Alkek Geospace ALK 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Nathaniel Dede-Bamfo, nd1115@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This is the continuation of the same topic. Attendees will learn more advanced techniques such as joining data, running overlay analysis etc. using a free and open source GIS software.

Since this workshop is hybrid (both in-person and online), participants who join via online (zoom) are expected to have the required software QGIS, already installed on their computer prior to attending this workshop.

Please visit the link below to download a copy of the QGIS software:
*** www.qgis.org… *** Click here for more information
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Research Bias Recognition
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Two types of research bias exists. Research bias can be found in the types of resources and media used to report findings or interpret articles for readers. And bias can also make its way into research as we collect data and conduct analysis for our own projects. Attendees will learn about how research bias can impact their literature review and theoretical frameworks, as well as how it can impact the results of their studies. Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Using Notion for Grad School
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Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
Ever get lost trying to keep track of notes, projects, and readings?  Need a place to store all that info, add notes and ideas, and access it later? Notion is a great tool to do this, and in this workshop, we’ll specifically talk about ways to use it for organizing your graduate work. 
This workshop introduces using Notion as a project management and note taking tool for graduate students. Attendees will leave with an understanding of how Notion works, how they can leverage the tool for their graduate work, and will be provided a variety of templates to start from.  

Presented by: Henna Punjabi, Instructional Design Specialist, University Libraries


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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OPENtxst: Creative Content Attribution in Digital Publishing Workshop
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Location:
Alkek 452; Alkek 452
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Tara Spies Smith, ts20@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Do you frequently use images or other forms of creative content in your publications and presentations? Are you uncertain about whether or not you are giving proper attribution? Are you wondering if you need to get permission to use an image or video in your digital publications and presentations? Does all of this sound very mysterious to you?

In this workshop we will discuss the open access publishing platforms you might frequently encounter at Texas State, as well as finding and using creative content, the basics of copyright and open licenses, public domain, fair use, and the ethics of attribution. We will also discuss what metadata is and how it can be used to give attribution to your own work and the work you are using.



Finally, we will show you how to determine which Creative Commons license may be right for your work, and offer some resources for you to bookmark and return to in your research and creative endeavors.



Please register for the workshop in Sign-up to attend. Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Where to Publish? Navigating the Journal Jungle and Avoiding Predators
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Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
The world of scholarly publishing is changing and evolving in many directions. This workshop is designed to help authors find and use the library and other tools to navigate the complex publishing landscape. Topics covered in the workshop include:

• Understanding open access journal options
• Learning to evaluate journals
• Identifying and avoiding “predatory publishers”
• Determining the right publication for your work

Presented by: Kristin Van Diest, Librarian, University Libraries 


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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Where Do I Present My Research?
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
An important part of being a researcher is sharing your findings and best practices. This session will cover the different types of professional presentations that researchers often encounter at conferences, finding/applying to conferences, and ways to help mitigate presentation anxiety. Attendees will also create a presentation preparation plan. Click here for more information
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Alkek One Micro-Credential: Design to Fabrication
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Location:
Alkek One MakerSpace; ALK 102 & ALK 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Noah Brock, nszb3@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Participants will learn basic design principles and use them to fabricate a 3-Dimensional object. This process will step through the complete prototyping process from sketches, maquettes, translation into design software, and fabrication of a finished object in the Alkek MakerSpace. Students will have the opportunity to fabricate their product using a laser cutter, waterjet, or 3D printer.

The class will meet once a week for four weeks. YOU MUST ATTEND ALL 4 SESSIONS.

Friday, October 27, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM
Friday, November 3, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM
Friday, November 10, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM
Friday, November 17, 2023, 11:00AM - 12:30PM

Upon completion of this workshop, you will receive a micro-credential badge in Canvas. Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Introduction to StoryMapping
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Location:
Alkek 105 (GeoSpace) or Zoom; Alkek 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Nathaniel Dede-Bamfo, nd1115@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop introduces you to the world of ArcGIS StoryMap: a web platform that allows users to "combine maps with narrative text, images, and multimedia content. They make it easy to harness the power of maps and geography to tell your story". The workshop is open to all with no prior knowledge in GIS or those who will like to refreshen their knowledge after a long break from learning GIS. It is hands-on so attendees will have the opportunity to create their own StoryMaps.

Also, this session is offered in a hybrid (in-person and online) format, so participants could either attend via online (zoom) or in-person. Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Building ArcGIS Web Applications
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Location:
Alkek 105 (GeoSpace) or Zoom; Alkek 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Nathaniel Dede-Bamfo, nd1115@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
In this hybrid workshop (in-person and online), attendees will learn how to create a WebApp using the Esri/ArcGIS platform.

NB: This is an advanced topic so it is recommended that attendees have some background knowledge in GIS and experience using GIS applications like ArcGIS Pro, and ArcGIS Online. Attendees could therefore take one of the following basic GIS courses: Introduction to GIS / Mapping, Exploring Open Source GIS I, and Introduction to StoryMapping (if they have no prior knowledge of GIS or the ArcGIS software) prior to taking this course. Click here for more information
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–
Therapy Dogs
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Location:
Library - 2nd Floor; Main Floor (2nd)
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Sylvia T Gonzales, Assistant Director
Community Partnerships, stg39@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Therapy dogs have been visiting the Texas State campus since 2013. At each visit students get to meet and play with furry friends from Divine Canines. It's a great way to relieve stress and get some awesome puppy kisses! Don't miss this fun event!

–
Alkek One: Classic Console Repair
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Location:
AlkekOne; AlkekOne
Cost:
Free
Contact:
William Cates, avx2@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop is an introduction to electrical repair.

In this workshop you will have an opportunity to open, analyze, solder, and repair a retro video game console. You will use screwdrivers, multimeters, soldering irons, flux, and Google. You will not need to bring anything but closed toe shoes and short sleeve shirts.

TIP: Before the workshop, look up the difference between a resister, capacitor, and diode. Click here for more information
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Alkek One: Making with Fabric
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Location:
Alkek One Makerspace; Alkek One
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Hithia Davis, hd13@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
We will introduce you to some sewing basics and show you the first steps in using a sewing machine. Click here for more information
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Presentation Spotlight: What Skills Do I Need to Create My Research Poster?
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Location:
Alkek Library; 440
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Creating the materials needed to present your research can sometimes be as daunting as conducting the research itself. In this workshop we will demystify the art of creating the perfect research poster for your poster sessions. Join us to learn how to get free to license photos, find free poster printing resources on campus, and what programs to use to create your posters and the appropriate dimensions needed. Click here for more information
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Grad College Shop Talks: Increasing Your Impact
add to calendar
Location:
Online
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Ashley Carrington
512-245-3593
amc189@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Graduate College
Are you a graduate student eager to make a significant impact with your research? Join us for an engaging and informative webinar, presented by the University Libraries, as we explore effective strategies to increase your research impact and enhance your scholarly profile. In this webinar, we will guide you through a variety of practical tips, tools, and resources designed to help you navigate the complex world of academia and amplify the visibility and reach of your research findings. 

Presented by: Laura Waugh, Assistant Director, University Libraries


Register today!

Did you know you can earn a Certificate of Completion by attending Shop Talks? Learn more. Click here for more information
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–
Alkek One: Interpreting Aerial Images I
add to calendar
Location:
Alkek 105 (GeoSpace) or Zoom; Alkek 105
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Nathaniel Dede-Bamfo, nd1115@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Learn some basics of Aerial Imagery Analysis; otherwise known as Remote Sensing. Remote Sensing is "the collection and interpretation of information about the environment and the surface of the earth from a distance, primarily by sensing radiation that is naturally emitted or reflected by the earth's surface or from the atmosphere, or by sensing signals transmitted from a device and reflected back to it. Examples of remote-sensing methods include aerial photography, radar, and satellite imaging" - ESRI, 2016.

This workshop is highly recommended for people in Biology, Aquatic Resources, Agriculture, Wildlife, Geography, Civil Engineering and related disciplines.

Also, since this session is hybrid (in-person and online), participants who join via online (zoom) are expected to have the required software, Erdas Imagine, already installed on their computer prior to attending this workshop. Please contact the workshop instructor for directions on how to obtain a copy of the software. Click here for more information
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Future Maker Accelerator Entrepreneurship Program - Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
add to calendar
Location:
Alkek Library; Alkek One technology studios on the first floor of Alkek
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Shannon Weigum
Co-Director
TXST Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
sweigum@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
ABOUT THE ACCELERATOR
Produced in partnership with the Texas State Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship, the first Future Maker Accelerator is being hosted at Alkek One on the first floor of the Alkek Library. Alkek One offers a wide variety of creative technologies that program participants can use to create or develop business ideas.

Whether you are looking to create an individual side hustle or get VC funded and build the next world-changing corporation, this program will help you assess the pros and cons of entrepreneurship, evaluate next best steps, and prepare to pitch potential customers and investors. This program is open to all members of the community thanks to a generous grant from the Alkek Foundation.

The flexible structure of the program allows participants to start on any workshop date, pick up wherever they leave off, and attend weekly support sessions for small group and individual coaching.

PROGRAM DETAILS
Saturday Workshops Topics Include:
  1. Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  2. Developing Your Business Model
  3. Building Your Team
  4. Pitching Your Business
Open Office Hours and Pitch Practice sessions will be held on the Tuesday and Thursday following each Saturday Workshop. 

Summer/Fall PROGRAM SCHEDULE
4-hour Weekly Workshops will be held on select Saturdays at Alkek One from 1pm – 5pm, based on the university’s Academic Calendar.

Here are the currently scheduled workshops for 2023:
  • July 15 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • July 22 – Developing Your Business Model
  • Sep 30 – Building Your Team
  • Oct 7 – Perfecting Your Pitch
  • Nov 11 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • Nov 18 – Developing Your Business Model
Open Office Hours will be held from 9am – 11am on the Tuesday and Thursday morning following each Saturday workshop.

Pitch Practice will be from 3pm – 5pm on the Thursday afternoon following each Saturday Workshop. Click here for more information
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Letters of Recommendation
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Whether applying to graduate school or a job, letters of recommendation are a vital part of the application process. This session will cover how to request letters of recommendation, who to request them from, and research data on what matters most to include in letters of recommendation. Attendees will also discuss the best ways to help letter of recommendation writers portray the best version of themselves for the specific job or school that they are applying to. Click here for more information
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–
How to Submit to An Academic Journal
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Location:
Alkek Library; 133A
Cost:
Free
Contact:
ideacenter@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
IDEA Center
Ever had a professor say "this paper is really good. You should submit it somewhere," and have absolutely no clue what that means? In this workshop we will discuss how to find an appropriate journal for your discipline and type of submission, what the journal submission process looks like, where to get assistance on campus with publishing, and what to expect once you have finally made a submission. Click here for more information
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–
Long Night Against Procrastination
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Location:
Alkek 441/442; 441/442
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Erin Dorrell, lfu12@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Students are invited to join library staff and study for their exams. Coffee, donuts, and snacks provided while supplies last. Librarians and other study support available to assist students.

–
Alkek One: Classic Console Repair
add to calendar
Location:
AlkekOne; AlkekOne
Cost:
Free
Contact:
William Cates avx2@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
This workshop is an introduction to electrical repair.

In this workshop you will have an opportunity to open, analyze, solder, and repair a retro video game console. You will use screwdrivers, multimeters, soldering irons, flux, and Google. You will not need to bring anything but closed toe shoes and short sleeve shirts.

TIP: Before the workshop, look up the difference between a resister, capacitor, and diode. Click here for more information
more about event

–
Future Maker Accelerator Entrepreneurship Program - Developing Your Business Model
add to calendar
Location:
Alkek Library; Alkek One technology studios on the first floor of Alkek
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Dr. Shannon Weigum
Co-Director
TXST Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
sweigum@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship
ABOUT THE ACCELERATOR
Produced in partnership with the Texas State Center for Innovation + Entrepreneurship, the first Future Maker Accelerator is being hosted at Alkek One on the first floor of the Alkek Library. Alkek One offers a wide variety of creative technologies that program participants can use to create or develop business ideas.

Whether you are looking to create an individual side hustle or get VC funded and build the next world-changing corporation, this program will help you assess the pros and cons of entrepreneurship, evaluate next best steps, and prepare to pitch potential customers and investors. This program is open to all members of the community thanks to a generous grant from the Alkek Foundation.

The flexible structure of the program allows participants to start on any workshop date, pick up wherever they leave off, and attend weekly support sessions for small group and individual coaching.

PROGRAM DETAILS
Saturday Workshops Topics Include:
  1. Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  2. Developing Your Business Model
  3. Building Your Team
  4. Pitching Your Business
Open Office Hours and Pitch Practice sessions will be held on the Tuesday and Thursday following each Saturday Workshop. 

Summer/Fall PROGRAM SCHEDULE
4-hour Weekly Workshops will be held on select Saturdays at Alkek One from 1pm – 5pm, based on the university’s Academic Calendar.

Here are the currently scheduled workshops for 2023:
  • July 15 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • July 22 – Developing Your Business Model
  • Sep 30 – Building Your Team
  • Oct 7 – Perfecting Your Pitch
  • Nov 11 – Creating or Refining Your Value Proposition
  • Nov 18 – Developing Your Business Model
Open Office Hours will be held from 9am – 11am on the Tuesday and Thursday morning following each Saturday workshop.

Pitch Practice will be from 3pm – 5pm on the Thursday afternoon following each Saturday Workshop. Click here for more information
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Elizabeth Crook at The Wittliff
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Location:
The Wittliff Collections / Alkek Library; 7th Floor
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Michael Harrison
mh43@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
The Wittliff Collections
Join acclaimed author and San Marcos native Elizabeth Crook as she discusses her new novel, The Madstone on Thursday, November 30th at 7pm.
 
With its vivid characters and expansive canvas, The Madstone calls to mind Lonesome Dove and News of the World, yet Elizabeth Crook’s new novel is a singular achievement. The Madstone is a treasure: a brilliant, beautiful page-turner of a book. Elizabeth Crook has reimagined the Western, giving us a poignant love story and a riveting road novel. Click here for more information
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–
Therapy Dogs
add to calendar
Location:
Library - 2nd Floor; Main Floor (2nd)
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Sylvia T Gonzales, Assistant Director
Community Partnerships, stg39@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries
Therapy dogs have been visiting the Texas State campus since 2013. At each visit students get to meet and play with furry friends from Divine Canines. It's a great way to relieve stress and get some awesome puppy kisses! Don't miss this fun event!

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OPENtxst: Openly Licensed & Copyrighted Creative Content for Your Scholarly Works
add to calendar
Location:
Zoom Meeting; Zoom
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Tara Spies Smith, ts20@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
University Libraries

Come to this workshop and learn about copyright and openly licensed creative content, and how to find and use openly licensed images, music, and video and other open access content using public domain/open access image websites, the library’s image/video/music databases, and books. Learn how to properly give credit or attribution to copyrighted or open access content and how to give your scholarly work, creations, and designs a Creative Commons license. Presentation tips and tech tools that can make your presentations and publications more professional and visually interesting will be also be covered. Creative content copyright topics will briefly covered as well.

This session is online to be more accessible and flexible. I look forward to working with you!

Please register in Sign-up to receive the zoom link to attend the workshop.

 Click here for more information
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Jonathan Escoffery Reading and Q&A
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Location:
The Wittliff Collections / Alkek Library
Cost:
Free
Contact:
Name: Bianca Alyssa Pérez
Email: mfinearts@txstate.edu
Campus Sponsor:
Department of English

Jonathan Escoffery is the author of If I Survive You and a forthcoming novel, Play Stone Kill Bird. He won the 2020 Plimpton Prize for Fiction, the 2020 ASME Award for Fiction, and a 2020 National Endowment for the Arts Literature fellowship. His writing has appeared in The Paris Review, American Short Fiction, Electric Literature’s Recommended Reading, ZYZZYVA, Pleiades, AGNI, The Best American Magazine Writing 2020, and elsewhere. He is a Doctoral Fellow in Creative Writing and Literature at the University of Southern California.

Reading @ 3:30pm with the class/generative session to follow

Research Consultations

Can't make it to a scheduled workshop?

Workshop Topics

We welcome workshop topic ideas!