Now that we are another month closer to finishing the semester, here are some events to take our minds off of the cold weather and approaching finals.

Lecture series

For those interested in learning more about our galaxy, “A Universe of Surprises”, a guest lecture series, is going to be held at the Minnesota State University Moorhead Planetarium on Nov. 1. During the lecture, Chris Lintott and Laura Trouille will present known and unknown facts about our universe such as black holes, exotic planets and stars. Lintott and Trouille will also investigate the ways in which scientists deal with surprises and how anyone can make discoveries from their homes. The lecture will start at 7:30 p.m. and last until 9 p.m. Tickets for college students are $13.

Etiquette practice

Campus Attractions is hosting an Etiquette Dinner on Nov. 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union Great Plains Ballroom. The purpose of the event is to teach students how to properly eat a four-meal course. There will be a short presentation along with dinner hosts who will inform everyone how to have a meal during a job interview or at a professional lunch meeting. Along with a meal, students will also have the opportunity to network at the event helping them prepare for a career after college. The dinner is sponsored by the Spotlight committee.

Innovation Challenge progress

As the Innovation Challenge advances, students participating in the challenge can expect semi-final pitches on Nov. 5. During the event, students will present their project plans in the form of elevator pitches to judges. While this is only the semi-final pitch, this will give students the opportunity to touch upon anything their project needs work on. The third boot camp will be held Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. at the NDSU Alumni Center. The boot camp, which is held by Scott Meyer, will help students improve their projects’ visual display presentations and prepare them for the final pitches.

Native American Heritage Month

Since November is Native American Heritage Month, the American Indian Public Health Resource Center and the Office of Admissions are hosting a first annual Native American Heritage Luncheon and Discussion. The luncheon will be held on Nov. 18 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Mandan Room of the Memorial Union. Lunch will be served and there will be a discussion concerning the current issues regarding Native Americans on campus. All indigenous faculty, staff and students are invited to attend.

Grad Fair

All students graduating in December are encouraged to attend the Grad Fair on Nov. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the NDSU bookstore. The event will allow students to purchase caps, gowns and diploma frames. Students in attendance will be able to meet with Herff Jones representatives to get sized for their gowns and ask questions about services offered and products to buy. Caps and gowns will also be at the fair for students to take graduation pictures in.