Admissions Insights

College of Science Insights

New digs, new wheels: gearing up for a great fall!

2011-10-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Office of Undergraduate Admissions moved to new building in the summer; a few weeks ago, we got a new bus to transport visitors to and from campus; and we have a great admissions team who has been out on the road recruiting new Hokies.

If you haven't already, come check out our new digs! Our Fall Open Ho use is a one-day program scheduled November 12 and 13. We hope you will choose

to join us by registering online today! If Open House doesn't suit your schedule, our office is open

weekdays and many Saturdays for tours and information sessions.

It's been a great fall and we are looking forward to receiving your applications! Don't forget the important dates and deadlines.

We wish you all the best in your college search!

Student's Story: Dabney discusses undergraduate research opportunities at VT

2011-04-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

By Dabney, a junior majoring in Psychology

Video (below):

Michael, Hokie Ambassador

Michael is a fourth year student majoring in civil engineering. In this video, Michael discusses undergraduate research.

Virginia Tech, being a innovative research university, offers many research opportunities for undergraduate students. This is an excellent aspect of the many things Virginia Tech offers. Not only does undergraduate research expose you to hands-on experience of textbook concepts, but you also gain valuable resume builders for graduate school. As a psychology major, the Center for Applied Behavior Systems (or CABS, for short) was the perfect opportunity for me to become involved in undergraduate research. CABS is incredibly unique in that it gives both graduate and undergraduate students the opportunity to research under current projects and be able to create a research project yourself.

Currently, CABS has several projects running but one of particular importance for me deals with a movement on campus called "Actively Caring." The movement is an attempt to create a more compassionate culture throughout our community by encouraging people to actively care with a green wristband. Essentially, the idea is to see an act of kindness, thank the person for actively caring and pass the wristband to them. It's analogous to the idea of "paying it forward." Through the "Actively Caring" website and research conducted on campus, CABS works towards creating a more empathetic and positive world. This and other CABS projects on things such as pedestrian safety, bullying, and gossip can help create prosocial behavior and change our world dynamic. The whole reason for research is to find new ways to make the world a better place. It's amazing that Virginia Tech undergraduate research actually gives students that opportunity. Being a part of the Actively Caring movement with CABS at Virginia Tech is one of the many ways students may become engaged in the awesome undergraduate research offered.

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Michael, Hokie Ambassador

Michael is a fourth year student majoring in Civil Engineering. In this video, Michael discusses undergraduate research.

More info:

College of Science

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College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences Insights: Lauren's story

Traditions at Virginia Tech

2011-03-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

By Leigh Ann, a senior in the College of Liberal Arts & Human Sciences
Major: English

Video (below): Joe, Hokie Ambassador, talks about Hokie Spirit.

Joe is a Hospitality & Tourism Management major in Pamplin College of Business.

With everything from jumping when Enter Sandman plays before kick-off at each football game to hearing the bells tolling from Burruss Hall every afternoon, Virginia Tech is steeped in tradition. Hokies are very proud of our long, prestigious history and we take pride is preserving the history for those who walked across our campus decades before and for those who are Hokies-to-be. There are seemingly endless traditions, some that happen every day and some that happen only once a year, but they are all an equally important part of the culture at Virginia Tech.

Take just one step on campus and the beautiful setting of landscaping and architecture gives an aura of history and tradition in the sense that all the buildings are made of Hokie Stone. The cohesion in design and the use of the unique stone make our campus truly unique and gorgeous. Although there several older buildings hidden throughout campus that are not made out of Hokie Stone, today the limestone bricks dominate the design and are used in all recent and future construction.

Students today can expect many traditions revolving around our football games. We have been recognized for our football entrance by many sportswriters. As the Virginia Tech football team prepares to run out from the tunnel before each game, Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” blasts over the speakers and all 66,000 fans start jumping. Hokies standing in the bleachers of the North End Zone Stands need to hold on tight; they really shake. When the Hokies score there is a string of traditions that follow, and fans need to know the routine. First, the skipper of the Corps of Cadets sets off the canon. Then Hokie fans throughout the stands are lifted above the fans around them, one rep for each point the Hokies have scored. Small-framed Hokie fans need to be prepared to get tossed into the air if they find themselves between some large, male fans! Lastly, between the third and fourth quarter of every game, the Hokie cheerleaders and High-Techs lead the stadium in the Hokie Pokey.

Football is certainly not the only aspect of our campus that is rooted in tradition. Class rings are an important part of preparing for graduation from Virginia Tech. In the spring of each year, the junior class participates in a weekend-long celebration when they receive their class rings. Each year a ring is carefully and beautifully designed. The students of the current junior class attend a formal dance and are presented their class rings at the end of March each year. The event is a symbol of both the students’ progress and success so far and a celebration of their forthcoming senior year.

Traditions will continue to be added in the future as the community continues to grow, but there are certainly already traditions that are very important to Hokies. There is so much to be proud about this university and participating in such traditions pays tribute the history of the school.

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Joe, Hokie Ambassador, talks about the Hokie Spirit.

Joe is a Hospitality & Tourism Management major in Pamplin College of Business.

Let's Go... HOKIES!

More info:

College of Liberal Arts & Human Sciences

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Sara's story: themed housing at Virginia Tech

2011-02-21T06:57:00.000-08:00

By Sara, a student in the College of Science
Major: Biology

Video (below): Michelle, Admission Advisor Michelle shares her experience with The WING, themed housing for incoming freshmen.

When I got accepted to Virginia Tech, I immediately began planning activities for my freshman year, as I was now officially a Hokie. I grabbed my computer and started to explore the Virginia Tech website, researching everything from intramural sports to where the best sandwich is made on campus. I stumbled across housing and residence life and noticed a tab called “themed housing.” I had never heard anything about “themed housing” from any of the ten colleges I applied to earlier that year so I decided to check it out. Hours later, I submitted my application to become a member of the Residential Leadership Community (RLC) and the rest is history.

My first class of freshman year was my leadership class in which my professor asked us, “What is a good leader?” We debated over the many answers to this seemingly simple question for the rest of the year. Not only did the RLC expand my problem solving skills and force me to debate with my peers, it brought the learning experience outside of the classroom. Virginia Tech Relay for Life, The Big Event, The International Street Fair, and Gobblerfest were only a few of the events on campus where the RLC as a whole was an active participant. Volunteering on Saturday mornings with the YMCA of Blacksburg with 200 other RLC members was one of the most rewarding experiences of my freshman year. This community provides the university and its students with endless possibilities. I am very fortunate to have been a member of the RLC and was given the opportunity to give back to the citizens of Blacksburg, Va.

Whether you join the RLC or one of the dozen other themed housing options, it will be a great way to expand your horizons while a student at VT. From the first day of my college career, students that shared similar values and interests about leadership surrounded me. Through the RLC, I was able to become involved in other organizations on campus and make the most of my four-year experience as a Hokie. The RLC provided me with the tools I needed to become a successful leader at Virginia Tech.

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Michelle, Admission Advisor
Michelle shares her experience with The WING, themed housing for incoming freshmen.

More info:

College of Science

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Scholarships & Financial Aid

In need of loot? Scholarships and financial aid info

2011-01-27T09:13:00.000-08:00

Now that you have completed and submitted your application, are you wondering how to you are going to get the loot to pay for college?

If so, then the best thing to do - no matter if you think you will qualify for financial aid - is to complete the FAFSA. It's available now and you can use estimates to complete it. I know it seems like a chore, but it should be worth it in the end.

At Virginia Tech many of our scholarships start with two things: a completed FAFSA and the General Scholarship Application. The priority deadline for both at Virginia Tech is March 1.

Visit the Scholarships and Financial Aid website to read all about the different types of aid at Virginia Tech. There's a handy financial aid estimator to help you estimate your eligibility on their site as well. Also, you can set up a free account to view the Scholarships Gateway at Virginia Tech to see what specific scholarships you would like to throw your name in the hat for.

For those of you who wish to join the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets , there are a few scholarship opportunities for you and only you! Keep in mind that just because you join the VTCC it doesn't mean that you have to make a commitment to the military. You can enroll in ROTC, but you don't have to in order to join the VTCC. Learn more

Best wishes to all of you who did apply to Virginia Tech (freshman application deadline was Jan 15). I know waiting for your admission decision is a pain, but at least you can pass the time with things like filling out the FAFSA, right?!

More info:

Application Deadlines: Jan 15 (Freshman Regular Decision), Feb 15 (Transfer)

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Time to review your application

2011-01-18T09:43:00.000-08:00

By Amanda Sparks

Assistant Director

Undergraduate Admissions

The weather might be cooling down, but things in the undergraduate admissions office are heating up! We're sure that things are pretty busy for you as well, but make sure you are keeping up with your application to Virginia Tech.

Even though you should have submitted you application by now if you were planning to apply to Virginia Tech, there are still a few things you could be doing.

Make sure your guidance counselor submits your first semester grades.
If you are interested in obtaining any financial aid (need or merit based), you have to complete the FAFSA and General Scholarship Application. Visit www.finaid.vt.edu for more information. Priority FAFSA deadline is March 1.

To track your application, visit the application status page. If you submitted your application within the last few days, please keep in mind that you had lots of company. As a result, it might take up to two weeks for you to be able to see your application status online. Please try to be patient and know that we are processing your application as fast as possible. Keep checking the application status page.

Don't hesitate to contact our office with any questions you may have. This can be a stressful time of year for you, but it doesn't have to be complicated!

More info:

Guest Account Info

Key Dates & Deadlines

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College of Science Insights

2010-12-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

Curing cancer with light, studying tuberculosis in Africa, unearthing a prehistoric time capsule - these are just a few things our students in the College of Science are doing.

Virginia Tech's College of Science is one of seven colleges that offers majors for incoming freshman and transfer students.

The majors offered by the College of Science include: biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, economics, geosciences, mathematics, physics, psychology, and statistics.

Within the College of Science (COS) there are many student organizations in which you can get involved - from Astronomy Club to the Math Club, you are sure to find an organization that peaks your interest.

In addition, COS offers undergraduate research and study abroad opportunities.

Explore the College of Science today by viewing the Virginia Tech College of Science Magazine.

More info:

Application Deadlines: Jan 15 (Freshman Regular Decision), Feb 15 (Transfer)

College of Science

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College of Natural Resources and Environment

College of Natural Resources Insights

2010-12-03T08:57:00.000-08:00

Visit www.inventyourfuture.vt.edu and watch Gabriela's story. Gabriela, a Wildlife Science major in the College of Natural Resources, tells us about her undergraduate research experiences at the Center for Bear Research, which is one of only two places in North America that does significant captive bear research.

Virginia Tech's College of Natural Resources and Environment is one of seven colleges that offers majors for incoming freshman and transfer students.

The College of Natural Resources and Environment has several exciting majors to include: environmental resource management, fisheries science, forestry, geography, natural resources undecided, natural resources conservation, wildlife science, and wood science and forest products.

Within the The College of Natural Resources and Environment (CNRE) there are many student organizations in which you can get involved - from The American Fisheries Society to the Pre-Vet Club to the The Wildlife Society and much more.

In addition, CNRE offers undergraduate research and study abroad opportunities. Fiji, Belize, Dominican Republic, Antarctica anyone? If either of those locations strike your interest, then you should check out the study abroad opportunities. In addition, there are many student organizations in which you can get involved - from The American Fisheries Society to the Pre-Vet Club to The Wildlife Society and much more.

If studying abroad is not your thing, then there are many opportunities to on campus. CNRE students have access to a state-of-the-art research laboratories and facilities.

Cheatham Hall houses fully equipped laboratories for studies in the physiology, nutrition, and genetics of trees, fish, and wildlife. Wood chemistry laboratories are also maintained for the analysis of wood and its components.

The Thomas M. Brooks Forest Products Center is one of the most sophisticated forest products labs in the United States. Dedicated to national and international research needs, it houses research laboratories, an experimental dry kiln, facilities for composites manufacturing, and advanced testing equipment for wood physics, mechanics, and processing research.

The Center for Bear Research, which is one of only two places in North America that does significant captive bear research. It is an approved site for research on captive black bears.

The Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Center is the leading facility for research and production of imperiled freshwater mussels.

The Reynolds Homestead Forest Resources Research Center is a 780-acre research and education center located in Virginia's Piedmont region less than two hours away from campus. It is equipped with a laboratory, greenhouse, shade house, aquatic research ponds, and field sites.

The Fishburn School Forest is a 1,353-acre teaching and demonstration forest close to campus.

More info:

Application Deadlines: Jan 15 (Freshman Regular Decision), Feb 15 (Transfer)

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College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences

College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences Insights: Lauren's story

2010-11-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

By Lauren, a student in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences

Major: Biochemistry & Spanish

Video (below):

Molly, Hokie Ambassador

Molly is a senior majoring in co mmunication with a concentration in electronic and print media and minoring in theater arts and international studies. In this video, Molly discusses why she chose Virginia Tech.

Being a student in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Tech is nothing like the college experience I expected of a school of 30,000 students. I saw Virginia Tech's campus for the second time ever when I came to Orientation in July of 2007. I met my advisor and set up my class schedule the morning after I slept in East Ambler Johnston, which was my first time ever staying in a residence hall. I was overwhelmed by the entire Orientation process, as I was in an unfamiliar place and I knew nobody.

To be honest, the day and a half I spent on campus was kind of a blur; it all happened so fast. I only remember bits and pieces now; I could't tell you what my Orientation Leader's name was, what information sessions I attended, or what questions I had during the day. What I do remember is that the advisor who was assigned to me for a day and a half during Orientation turned out to be one of the biggest influences of my undergraduate career. I had no idea that there would be someone who was with me every step of the way, be it with class selection, questions about the future, or even just looking for an adult to talk to who wasn't Mom or Dad.

As a pre-med student, my advisor suggested that I look into a Latin minor because of its practicality with medicine. I agreed, which was possibly the best thing I could have done for myself. In agreeing take a few Latin classes, I connected with so many people whom I would not have had the chance to meet otherwise. I have had the opportunity of a lifetime, getting to be extremely close with a very small community of students and professors alike in CLAHS. I went in day one knowing I wanted to study Spanish, and I have now taken classes in Spanish, Russian, Latin, and Greek. I'll graduate as a Spanish and Biochemistry double major with Latin and Chemistry minors-- not what I had planned.

You might ask, "Why so many languages?" As I started thinking of what classes I wanted to take during my junior year, I came to the realization that I wanted to not only take a class to learn the material, but also I wanted to study under different professors. Because the Classics Department at Virginia Tech is so small, many of my classmates and I became very close from the very beginning. For example, when I heard friends talking about taking Ancient Greek with Dr. Becker, my aforementioned Orientation Advisor, I knew that I had to take a class with him before I graduated. So, with no previous knowledge whatsoever of Greek, I signed up for Dr. Becker's Ancient Greek 1105 class in fall of 2009. Greek 1105 has nothing to do with my major, and I honestly will probably do nothing with Greek for the rest of my life. However, the knowledge and experience that I gained during my time in the class completely surpassed my expectations. Greek 1105 was hands down the best class taught by the best professor that I have taken during my four years at Virginia Tech.

During my time in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences, I have never once had a class larger than 25 students. I'm currently taking my fourth Latin class with the same professor, just because I know him and get along with him so well. While taking some larger courses in Biochemistry, it's a breath of fresh air to be in such an intimate class setting. I would imagine that not many people have the opportunity to interact regularly with professors outside of an academic setting; I see every Latin professor that I have had every Friday at our weekly, "Classics Table," during which time 20 or so students and I go to a restaurant downtown and talk about the week’s events, and occasionally throw in some conversation about classics. I've had multiple professors offer their homes to students for end of semester festivities and other celebrations. I truly could not ask to be part of a more close-knit community. For me, being a part of the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences has been an amazing and unforgettable experience.

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Molly, Hokie Ambassador
Molly is a senior majoring in communication with a concentration in electronic and print media and minoring in theater arts and international studies. In this video, Molly discusses why she Virginia Tech.

More info:

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College of Engineering Insights: Sigridur's story

2010-11-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

By Sigridur, a student in the College of Engineering

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Minor: Spanish

Vice Chair, VT American Society of Mechanical Engineers

Director of Recruitment, Hokie Ambassadors

Dean's Team, VT College of Engineering

Video (below):

Michael, Hokie Ambassador

Michael is a fourth year student majoring in civil engineering. In this video, Michael discusses undergraduate research.

First of all, being a part of the College of Engineering at Virginia Tech definitely gives you a confidence boost. I am proud to be a part of the nation's 13th best Engineering College. Coming in as a freshman, I wasn't sure which direction I wanted to take, luckily our engineering program is very organized. We have two different paths you can take: the Digital Track and the Design Track. The Digital Track includes Computer Science, Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering. The Design Path consists of all other disciplines.

You don't have to decide on a specific department until the end of freshman year, so by sophomore year you will be in one of the 13 engineering departments. I chose Mechanical Engineering because I would like to work in the energy industry; the Mechanical Engineering department has the most to offer within that field. Regardless of the path you take, you will have access to supportive faculty and great undergraduate research opportunities within the Virginia Tech College of Engineering.

Being a research institution, all of our professors are required to do some kind of research, so getting involved in a project is very simple. Talk to your professors to see what they're working on. You might find yourself interested, and more than likely, they would appreciate your help (not to mention it's a great resume booster). In most departments, in our senior year, we are required to do a senior design project. Senior design projects are a great way to incorporate the "hands on, minds on" training received during the first years.

My experience here at Virginia Tech has shown me how far you can take your learning. Freshman year I wasn't involved in many things, but starting sophomore year I decided to make the most of my time. I joined the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, a professional organization within my major. Slowly, I started to understand how many opportunities there are here. Hopefully you will find whatever suits you best and make the most of it as well!

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Michael, Hokie Ambassador
Michael is a fourth year student majoring in Civil Engineering. In this video, Michael discusses undergraduate research.

More info:

College of Engineering

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Fall Open House - November 6/7

2010-10-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

In this video, Justin, a Hokie Ambassador and junior majoring in Sociology, discusses Open House. We hope you are planning to come to our Open House November 6/7! Open House is a one-day event, so you can pick which day suits your schedule. To participate in this free event, all you have to do is register online.

What to expect:

Tour our beautiful campus
Learn about our challenging programs of study
Talk with current students about life on campus

The opening session begins at 9 a.m. From the opening session, you can attend the various college and major information sessions. In addition, there will be information tables from various areas on campus (including dining services and housing) in both lobbies of Burruss Hall. Campus tours will be held throughout the morning.

Special information sessions will be held to answer any questions you may have about:

corps of cadets
teacher education programs
university scholarships and financial aid (hint: even if you don't think you will receive aid, you need to complete the FAFSA because a lot of our scholarships require it).
pre-medical studies
university honors.

Also, there will be two interactive student panels held. Check out the Open House schedule online. Think of Open House as a one-stop shop for all your college admissions questions. We hope to see you soon!

More info:

Apply Today!

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Pamplin College of Business Insights: Josh's story

2010-10-27T07:23:00.000-07:00

By Josh, a senior in the Pamplin College of Business

Major: Hospitality and Tourism Management

Video (below):

Michelle, 2010 Admissions Advisor

Michelle graduated in May 2010 with a degree in Marketing Management from the Pamplin College of Business.

The Pamplin College of Business is an amazing school for business. I actually started off majoring in Economics, and I switched majors during my Junior year and went into Hospitality and Tourism Management. I have really enjoyed all my classes with Pamplin. They make sure they do a good job of allowing all their students to be very well-rounded. I have had the opportunity to learn in Accounting classes, Management classes, and Business Information Technology classes.

All of the classes offered through Pamplin have allowed me to find what my strengths and weaknesses are. I like the fact that through the classes I have taken here, I really found out how much I enjoy working with people and having that interaction. I learned that I truly wanted a job that involved me working directly with other people more than just primarily sitting at a desk all day. All of the professors are also fantastic. I have really enjoyed getting to know a lot of them and I greatly treasure their willingness to assist their students.

More info:

Pamplin College of Business

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Admissions at Virginia Tech

Invent Your Future at Virginia Tech

This Is The Future

Deadlines, Deadlines, Deadlines

2010-10-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

If you are planning to apply to Virginia Tech here are a few dates to keep in mind:

Early Decision Deadline: November 1
Early Decision Notification: December 15
Regular Decision Deadline: January 15
Regular Decision Notification: by April 1

To apply online, visit www.admiss.vt.edu/apply/freshman.

To check out what we look for, visit www.admiss.vt.edu/apply/freshman/what_do_we_look_for.

Once you apply online, you must create a guest account. Please check out the guest account FAQs for more information.

Here's what Juan Espinoza, Senior Assistant Director, has to say about the application process:

More info:

Apply Today!

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October Hokie News

2010-10-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

Throughout the academic year, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions publishes a newsletter to keep applicants posted about the latest news, opportunities, and resources at Virginia Tech. Check out the October Hokie News and learn more about:

Listen to what Lauren, a senior majoring in Spanish and Biochemistry, has to say about her experience with club softball at Virginia Tech:

More info:

Hokie News

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Study Abroad: There are Hokies all over the world!

2010-10-13T05:53:00.000-07:00

By Annie, Admissions Advisor, 2010 Graduate

Major: Interdisciplinary Studies

I've heard it said that Hokies are all over the world. But I didn't believe it until I actually went to the other side of the world!

In July 2008, I traveled to South Africa to begin a semester abroad. I arrived in Cape Town, South Africa late on a rainy night with no reservations, phone numbers, or contacts because my luggage was lost. I was terrified and clueless because my plane had arrived hours later than my scheduled landing.

I met a woman who took me to the only local hotel. So I went into the hotel only to learn that that they were completely booked. Tears came to my eyes. I was in alone, homeless, and lost in an extremely dangerous foreign country.

As I stepped back from the front desk and began to evaluate what my next move would be, I noticed a Virginia Tech t-shirt in the corner of my eye. So I ran over to the strangers and introduced myself. And, by the grace of God, I ran into a small group of Virginia Tech students who were traveling through Southern Africa and they just happened to be in Cape Town.

My fellow Hokies, and new friends immediately, offered to let me stay in their room. They let me crash in their hotel room, fed me dinner, and clothed me. Could I ask for anything more? Thankfully, in the morning I was able to contact my new university and arrived safely. My first day in a foreign country immediately proved that there are Hokies all over the world.

I learned a few things on my trip:

When traveling, keep the contact numbers on you in case your luggage is lost!
Once a Hokie always a Hokie.
Whenever anyone asks me what a Hokie is, I say, "I AM."

Check out what Hayden, 2010 Admissions Advisor, has to say about her education abroad experience:

More info:

Education Abroad

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College of Architecture & Urban Studies

College of Architecture & Urban Studies Insights: Andrea's story

2010-10-11T05:24:00.001-07:00

By Andrea, a student in the College of Architecture & Urban Studies

Major: Architecture

When I tell people I am majoring in architecture, I often receive a cocked head and questionable look in response. Architecture interests many, confuses some, and thrills others. If I could share with all these people what an amazing learning and growth experience the College of Architecture and Urban Studies (CAUS) has been to me, I think they would just smile in joy with me.

The CAUS has given me more than I could have ever dreamt of in terms of academic and personal growth. The professors challenge students to think beyond the realm of their past experience; to research through the extensive and thorough resources within the Art & Architecture Library; and to expand their skills in shop, drafting, construction, computer and others.

Most importantly, through our assignments and projects, we are encouraged to develop as designers by continually asking questions of design and making discoveries within our projects. I have learned that this is a process that never ends. It is in fact a lifelong design process that is constantly evolving as we learn of new ideas, discover new technologies, and experience new times.

Another huge aspect of the CAUS at Virginia Tech is the ability to live, discuss, and learn within a close-knit group of design students and professionals. At Virginia Tech there is such a bond between students and professors that the individuals who walk around Cowgill and Burchard truly become family in your studio home. In this way, and in many others, design becomes a lifestyle. It goes deeper than your short- or long-term memory, but it becomes part of who you are and part of your everyday. The design world, as they call it, truly is a different place and a different mindset, than anything I had experienced before. After a year in the CAUS at VT, I have gained a heightened sense of awareness, have begun to think as a designer, and have realized the joy and fulfillment brought through design.

More info:

College of Architecture & Urban Studies

Related blogs:

College of Architecture & Urban Studies Insights: Megan's story

College of Architecture & Urban Studies Insights: Liz's story

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Admissions at Virginia Tech

Invent Your Future at Virginia Tech

This Is The Future

College of Architecture & Urban Studies Insights: Megan's story

2010-10-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

By Megan, a second year graduate student in CAUS

Major: Public and International Affairs

In 2009, I officially became a Hokie and have not left Blacksburg, Va., since. The reason for this is not because I have nothing better to do, but because I have found a new family and a new home at Virginia Tech. It is hard to explain the bond that comes with being a Hokie. In fact, I don't think it can be put in words. It's something along the lines of seeing someone wearing a VT shirt in the Dominican Republic when your flight is cancelled and knowing you can spend the whole day with them and they will look out for you. This did, indeed, happen.

The reason I have had opportunities such as these to see how far the Hokie Nation truly does extend across borders, is because of Virginia Tech’s many opportunities. Clubs, groups, sports, arts of all sorts are at Tech. Therefore, diversity of our students, and subsequently alumni, means that there are service projects, like Cailin McHale’s ('06) Project Esperanza in the Dominican Republic aiding Haitian refugees or Emily Barry’s ('09) community development partnership with El Porvenir, Honduras.

There are also ample research opportunities, like College of Architecture and Urban Studies'student initiated research grant that helped, along with funds from the School of Public and International Affairs and programs managed by the Office of International Research, send me to Ecuador this summer to research women in agriculture and funded Andrew Puhl ('10) to research historic pole-barns in New River Valley and create illuminated fine art photographs of them. Additionally, opportunities for academic competition and conferences, most notably the Solar Team that built a solar house, LUMENHAUS, and competed in, and won, an international Solar Decathlon this summer in Madrid, Spain.

All of the above mentioned relate in some way, whether that be guidance or class participation or student participation or funding, to the College of Architecture and Urban Studies and represent just a small portion of the many opportunities offered for real world education and collaboration across academic fields.

Because Virginia Tech is focused on research, this allows students to have opportunities to learn outside of the class and put their book knowledge to work. Students from every major have the opportunity to work on research and projects that are current and innovative. The College of Architecture and Urban Studies has four schools: the School of Architecture + Design; the School of Visual Arts; the Myers-Lawson School of Construction; and the School of Public and International Affairs. There are plenty of opportunities to work with leaders in the field and cooperate in interdisciplinary research to broaden your horizon.

More info:

What do you want to be?

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Say hello to your Admissions Officer

2010-10-04T05:27:00.000-07:00

By Jonathan Schramm

Senior Assistant Director

Undergraduate Admissions

If you're reading this blog then you're probably a prospective college student or perhaps the parent of one (?). Either way, you know that the time for submitting college applications is fast approaching. You know it's time to start visiting college campuses, attending information sessions, and heading off to college fairs to start narrowing down your search. Doing any or all of these pretty much guarantees that you'll meet your Admissions Officer along the way.

Admissions Officers are those people with the smiling faces greeting you on campus, giving you presentations, and standing behind those colorful tables with all the free stuff on them. They are also the ones who review your admissions applications once they're submitted.

Virginia Tech's Admissions Officers are designated certain parts of the state and the country, so that you can find them easily. For example, in Virginia I review applications for parts of Henrico County, the Peninsula, Virginia Beach, the Northern Neck, and the Eastern Shore. Out of state I review the entire Midwest. Click here to say hello to your Admissions Officer. We always like to hear from you parents too...

More info:

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College of Architecture & Urban Studies

College of Architecture & Urban Studies Insights: Liz's story

2010-10-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

By Liz, a junior in the College of Architecture & Urban Studies

Major: Industrial Design

Minor: English

What I love about design in Virginia Tech's College of Architecture and Urban Studies is that everything you touch, read, hear, or experience is part of this world. This universality is why I love what I do—Industrial Design is my way to make life better, more functional, more beautiful. Good or bad design, whether in the graphics of a website, the ergonomics of a bike, or the layout of a city, depends on a sometimes unorthodox process of creativity.

In Industrial Design, we spend most of our time sketching, building models, and generally solving real-life problems in two and three dimensions. We don't just make products that look cool (though that inevitably happens as well), but we create objects that can make life better. In my studio classes, I've designed everything from a more efficient corkscrew, to a sleek container for a bushel of oysters, to a gaming system that links into the blood glucose meter of a child with diabetes.

Being a student of Industrial Design, or any of the CAUS majors, doesn't involve remembering dates and formulas, but rather constant, hands-on innovation. As designers, we first brainstorm wildly, reaching for any solution, no matter how fantastic or impractical. Then we comb through these solutions, testing, tweaking, and redesigning until we find the best combination of form and function. In a combination of "big picture, anything's possible" creativity and down-to-earth practicality, we can design anything, and, in turn, create the world as it should be. At Virginia Tech, the studios in Cowgill Hall and under the glass pyramids in Burchard Hall are centers of this creative and impassioned energy, and I can't imagine spending my days anywhere else.

More info:

Related blogs: What do you want to be?

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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Insights: Amber's story

2010-09-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

By Amber, a sophomore in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Major: Animal and Poultry Sciences

I am currently a sophomore, enrolled in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at Virginia Tech. My major is Animal and Poultry Sciences with a pre-vet emphasis, for I wish to become a veterinarian. I love being enrolled in CALS for several reasons. For one, it gets me involved in a lot of activities related to animals, for which I have a strong passion. Secondly, it links me to other students who enjoy participating in the same events as me.

By being enrolled in my major, I am able to apply for many volunteer opportunities in subjects that may spark my interest. For example, I applied to work at one of Virginia Tech's horse barns last semester and was actually chosen to help out. I went to the barn twice a week and volunteered my time to take horses in and out of the fields, feed them, clean their stalls,

organize the barn, and administer medicines and supplements when needed. Being a volunteer there opened more doors for me. Now, I work at a horse barns on a regular basis and am getting paid to be around and take care of animals that I love.

This semester I applied again, and am now a volunteer in the research field in the CALS. Currently, I report to the laboratory twice a week for about three or four hours. There I sterilize, wash, and organize equipment, as well as help any of the professors or graduate students with their research projects. With time and involvement, I soon hope to be able to perform my own research.

Were I not enrolled in the CALS, I probably would not have had the opportunity to be involved with animals and research at Virginia Tech. I love learning about animals and the environments that they live in, and if you are anything like me, you too may find that you love the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and feel at home there!

More info:

Fall Open House: November 6/7

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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Insights: Allyson's Story

2010-09-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

By Allyson, a junior in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Major: Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise

It's freshman year and after a class period packed with bonds, electrons, and the periodic table of elements, I settle into my seat in my Introduction to Foods and Nutrition class. I breathe a breath of fresh air because this is my favorite class. This is a class that I love to come to, interact in, and a class where I don’t mind studying for tests or doing homework assignments. Introduction to Foods and Nutrition is where my fascination with nutrition began. Before I knew it, I was a Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise major in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Agriculture and Life Sciences is a great college to be in (although I'd have to say that you are in a great place anywhere if you are at Virginia Tech, but I may be slightly biased). The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has provided me with many more classes, besides just the introduction class, that are fascinating and enjoyable rather than a chore. Food Selection and Preparation is teaching me not only how to follow a recipe and cook, but the reasons behind why food is prepared the way it is and how sometimes recipes need to be altered based on altitude, ingredient substitution, and other factors. My Athletic Injuries class gives me the inside view of what it is like to be in sports medicine from the mouth of the actual Athletic Trainer, who we trust with the health of our beloved Hokies.

Being in this college has opened my eyes to countless opportunities that I didn't even know were available. I receive weekly updates from the department concerning events on campus having to do with our college; clubs and organizations that are geared toward my interests; service opportunities on campus; and numerous other ways to get involved. And all of us students have the opportunity to get our hands dirty by getting involved in undergraduate research or getting a job that goes right along with our major. A close friend of mine actually puts what she's learned in class to use when she goes to Virginia Tech's barn, where she works, and obtains samples, makes observations, and takes care of a lot of the livestock. That's just one of the many great things about Virginia Tech, and about the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in particular. So I encourage anyone that may have an interest in this particular college at Virginia Tech, to check it out. Who knew that an interesting nutrition class could open up so many doors? But it did, and it could for you too.

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What do you want to be?

2010-09-24T05:25:00.000-07:00

How many times have you been asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Picking your major in college can be overwhelming. At Virginia Tech, we have more than 70 majors and minors within seven colleges. From biology to interior design, we have a program for you! Below is a list of our colleges and links to the programs of study offered within those colleges.

If you still aren't sure what major to pick, no worries. We have just the thing! We call it "University Studies" (more widely known as "undecided"). For students who don't know what to pick, they can enter University Studies and then decide what major is of most interest to them.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: A place where you can study biotechnology, the environment, food production and product development, business, animal or human health, or community development, just to mention a few of the options.

College of Architecture and Urban Studies: Annually, DesignIntelligence, the only national college-ranking survey focused exclusively on design-related programs, ranks the School of Architecture + Design undergraduate architecture program among the top 5 in the nation.

Pamplin College of Business: It is ranked in the top 50 undergraduate business schools by U.S. News and World Report and in the top 10 percent of accredited business programs. Five of the top seven most recruited majors on campus are in the Pamplin College of Business.

College of Engineering: It is the state's largest engineering college, and fifth largest nationally for undergraduate degrees awarded. America’s Best Colleges 2010 survey released by U.S. News & World Report ranked the Virginia Tech College of Engineering's undergraduate program 14th in the nation among all accredited engineering schools that offer doctorates. The National Science Foundation lists the college as 10th in total research expenditures.

College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences: Often referred to as the "people college," our alumni are making their marks in the worlds of business, industry, entertainment, education, government, and research.

College of Natural Resources and Environment: Our programs are ranked among the best in the country and address both the technical and human elements of natural resources and instill in students a sense of stewardship and land-use ethics.

College of Science: The progress being made in the sciences today was only a dream a short while ago, and the departments within the College of Science are on the cutting edge of research and scholarship.

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September Hokie News

2010-09-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

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The students behind the stone

2010-09-08T07:43:00.001-07:00

By Michael, a senior in the College of Engineering

Major: Civil Engineering

Being a Hokie is more than wearing orange and maroon, screaming to Enter Sandman, and doing the Hokie Pokey. It's the willingness to help others, the courage to challenge yourself both academically and socially, and the drive to change the world we live in. Being a Hokie is something you are, not something you do.

When I walked on campus for the very first time, I remember noticing that every building looked the same and thinking to myself that it was a pretty neat way to unite the university. Little did I know that it was the students behind the stone that were this uniting factor.

People often ask why Virginia Tech is so special, or why our alumni are so fanatic about this place, well, the answer is simple. Being a Hokie makes you part of a community and when you work, study and live in an environment where everyone strives for excellence, then there is no question that you are bound for success.

Being a Hokie is not a mercenary relationship. It is not a business proposition. It is not an exchange of goods and services for money. It is a shared bond, a love that comes from somewhere we don't understand and can't explain to others. We do not take from this university; it gives to us. Perhaps when we first arrive on its campus, we have our own selfish interests in mind, but by the time we leave, we are transformed. We are Hokies (Stewart, Will; TechSideline.com, 2007).

Being a Hokie means that you are going to have friends who will support and love you for who you are; faculty who will push and challenge you beyond your expectations; opportunities that will change the world and most importantly memories that will last a life time.

More info:

College of Engineering

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Let's Go... HOKIES!

2010-09-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

In a recent blog, Virginia Tech Defined, you got an overview of facts and stats related to Virginia Tech. The gist of Virginia Tech's essence is: you can get a quality education at a great price from faculty who are experts in their fields at a leading research university with a great atmosphere.

Ok, now that we have the particulars (very truthful as they are) out of the way, there's one piece to the Virginia Tech puzzle that deserves its own blog. FOOTBALL! Hokies are passionate folks in general, bring football into the mix and it's a whole new ball game (pun intended).

Tonight marks the first football game of this season: Virginia Tech vs. Boise State. Today many Hokies are flooding the FedExField in Landover, Md., to support the team. Can't make it to the game? No worries, you can keep track online at: www.hokiesports.com/football/live/.

To see the complete football schedule, visit www.hokiesports.com/football/schedule. There are 7 upcoming home games. If given the opportunity, you should try to experience a game at Lane Stadium. You really need to experience it first-hand, as it is hard to put into words.

Here's a modest effort at describing a home game: our football team enters the field to Metallica's "Enter Sandman" booming, fans, young and old, jumping up and down, and the united roaring voice of "LET'S GO....HOKIES!" Yeah that didn't do it justice. You just need to be there in person to get how cool it really is. Here's what others have said about us:

Real Clear Sports ranked Virginia Tech as No. 1 in the Top 10 College Football Entrances.
A poll by USA Today listed Lane Stadium as one of the top 10 great places to watch college football.

Visiting Virginia Tech is worth it no matter when you can make it to campus. However, you should consider checking us out on a game day - it's Hokie Spirit gone wild (in a good and wholesome way) I tell you!

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Welcome to the Hokie Neighborhood

2010-09-03T05:15:00.000-07:00

By Michelle, 2010 graduate and current Admissions Advisor

Pamplin College of Business

Major: marketing management

Having never lived away from home, and knowing only three students from my high school in Maryland, I came to Virginia Tech as a pretty lost freshman. That quickly changed though. Luckily, Virginia Tech hosts "Hokie Hi," a welcome week full of campus events to welcome Hokies back to campus!

Here are some highlights from the 2010 Hokie Hi Week:

Thursday, August 19, Hypnotist Tom DeLuca performed in Burruss Auditorium to hypnotize volunteers and even people in the audience! He actually hypnotized me to do some pretty funny things during our Homecoming Spirit Week, but I won't bore you with those embarrassing details.

Friday, August 20, at night there was a huge movie on the Drillfield under the stars. This year it was Ironman 2 -- gotta love a free movie with thousands of your new closest friends!

Saturday, August 21, the New Cadet Parade was on the Drillfield in the morning, followed by a Barn Bash in McComas Gym at night for a welcome to Blacksburg's southern cooking , dancing, games, and prizes.

Sunday, August 22, was my favorite event -- the Hokie Hi Welcome Picnic in Lane Stadium! Over 8,000 students attended this event the day before classes start! You get to run through the tunnel the football team goes through that leads you into the football stadium, walk the length of the field, and eat in the South End Zone while meeting coaches and team members from men's and women's varsity and club sports, the dance team, and the Marching Virginians.

Not to mention, the first week of classes is free week for group exercise classes in McComas Hall and War Memorial Gym.

I hope you do chose to come to Virginia Tech and when you do, make sure you check out the festivities during Hokie Hi Week!

For more info, visit http://www.hokiehi.nsp.vt.edu/ and see how you can take advantage of all of the amazing events that happen before classes even start. And, think of all of the new facebook friends you'll make along the way!

More info:

Hokie Hi

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Virginia Tech Defined

2010-08-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

Defining Virginia Tech in a few words is next to impossible.

I can give you some facts:

our faculty are experts in their fields, wining international and national awards,
we have ground-breaking research,
we have challenging academics,
our motto is Ut Prosim (That I May Serve),
all in all we simply ooze awesomeness!

And, I can give you some stats:

U.S. News & World Report ranks us in America's Best Colleges 2010:

30th among national public universities;
71 among all national universities, including Harvard and Yale;
College of Engineering's undergraduate program is ranked 14th in the nation;
The Pamplin College of Business undergraduate program is ranked 24 among public institutions and 42 among all institutions (private and public).

The Princeton Review:

ranked Virginia Tech eighth nationally among public universities in its "Best Value Colleges" for 2010,
ranked Virginia Tech #1 for Best Campus Food in the "Best 371 Colleges: 2010 Edition."

Ranks Virginia Tech 16th in its 100 Best Values in Public Colleges.

But in order to get a feel for Virginia Tech, you should visit us! We have Fall Open House programs coming up in September and November.

The bottom line: Virginia Tech is a great place to be. We have a wonderful, inclusive atmosphere and we hope you come and see for yourself!

More information regarding Virginia Tech:

www.inventyourfuture.vt.edu
www.thisisthefuture.com
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Innovation and Discovery at Virginia Tech

2010-07-06T06:06:00.000-07:00

Virginia Tech is one of the top 50 research universities in the United States. As a result, our students and faculty are busy being innovative! Check out some of the things students at Virginia Tech have been up to:

Students take top place at international solar house competition with Lumenhaus

Engineering students score second place in national competition with their Hybrid Electric Vehicle

Autonomous vehicle built by engineering students used by U.S. Marine Corps

Learn more about some of the exciting things our students are up to in the Summer 2010 Research Magazine.

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S1N1 Defined

2010-05-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

By Jonathan Schramm

Assistant Director

Undergraduate Admissions

Everyone has heard of H1N1, right? But have you ever heard of S1N1?

S1N1, also known as Senioritis, is a curious, seasonal virus that creeps into high schools all across America around this time of year. It is curious in that it seems to affect only one population of students: Seniors who have finally figured out where they’re going to college, and are just too excited to worry about piddly old high school anymore. Keep on the look out for the symptoms future Virginia Tech students. And get your vaccinations now! S1N1 is highly contagious.

The symptoms are as follows:

- Shortness of Breath – resulting from skipping through the halls with your Virginia Tech t-shirt on, thinking of nothing but coming to campus.

- Hallucinations – people everywhere start looking like orange and maroon turkeys.

- Sudden Verbal Outbursts – as you shout “Let’s Go!” and, when your friends look at you strangely and do not return your call, you say “Hokies!” in reply.

- Fainting Spells – resulting from thoughts of cheering on the Hokies at Lane Stadium in a sea of orange and maroon.

- Blurred Vision – as you get so psyched for college you can barely see straight!

The only cure for S1N1 is the knowledge that your admission to Virginia Tech is based on satisfactory completion of your current coursework, and that Virginia Tech reserves the right to revoke your admission even after we receive your final high school transcripts.

You never know when S1N1 will strike. So be warned seniors, wash your hands and remain ever diligent. We look forward to seeing you in the fall!

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Hokie Spirit

2010-04-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

The Hokie Spirit is epitomized by our motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). Being a member of the Virginia Tech community is more than accepting the fact that the colors maroon and orange truly do match. It's about learning both inside and outside of the classroom. It's about community service and helping your fellow man. To borrow from the spiritual and political leader, Gandhi, it's about expanding your horizons so that you can be the change you want to see in the world.

This means respecting your fellow Hokies – those who have also become Hokies by opting to learn, teach, or work at Virginia Tech. The university’s goal is to create a community filled with the Hokie Spirit. A community that nurtures learning and growing for all of its members. In orde r to do this, the university has adopted a few principles that we call the Virginia Tech Principles of Community.

As a new Hokie, we hope you too will adopt these principles and
embrace the responsibility that comes with calling yourself a Hokie.

Principles of Community
• We affirm the inherent dignity and value of every person and strive to maintain a climate for work and learning based on mutual respect and understanding.
• We affirm the right of each person to express thoughts and opinions freely.
We encourage open expression within a climate of civility, sensitivity, and mutual respect.
• We affirm the value of human diversity because it enriches our lives and the University. We acknowledge and respect our differences while affirming our common humanity.
• We reject all forms of prejudice and discrimination, including those based on age, color, disability, gender, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, and veteran status. We take individual and collective responsibility for helping to eliminate bias and discrimination and for increasing our own understanding of these issues through education, training, and interaction with others.
We pledge our collective commitment to these principles in the spirit of the Virginia Tech motto of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).

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Attention New Hokies: Key contacts and upcoming dates and deadlines

2010-04-26T05:35:00.001-07:00

Congratulations are in order if you have been accepted to Virginia Tech as a member of the class of 2014! Below are some key dates and deadlines you should keep in mind.

If you haven't already, you need to accept the offer of admission by paying your matriculation deposit. Deadline: May 1.
Once you have accepted the offer of admission and paid your matriculation deposit, you need to create your VT PID. Please keep in mind that if you pay your matriculation deposit online, please wait at least 1 business day for us to process your payment. You will not be able to create your PID until your payment has been processed. (As soon as you accept the offer of admission)
Look for your housing and dining contract (Complete in May)
Get ready for July Orientation. (Sign up in May)
Look for your computer specifications (Available in May)
Submit your Immunization History Form (Complete in June)
Submit your final high school and college transcripts (Deadline: June)
Consider attending Hokie Camp! (Sign up anytime)
Get ready for move-in (August).

We are looking forward to welcoming you to campus!

Here are some key contacts you might find useful in the coming weeks and months:

Undergraduate Admissions (?s about your offer of admission)

admiss@vt.edu

540/231-6267

Bursar (?s about money stuff):

bursar@vt.edu

Financial Aid & Scholarships (self explanatory!)

finaid@vt.edu

Health Center (?s about immunizations and health history form)

540/231-8104

Housing & Dining (self explanatory!)

housing@vt.edu

Orientation

tracks@vt.edu

4Help (?s about computer stuff)

540/231-4357

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Attention New Hokies!

2010-04-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

If you were accepted to Virginia Tech as a member of the class of 2014 and you are still trying to make up your mind about whether the university is right for you, consider attending Hokie Focus this weekend.

Hokie Focus is a free, one-day event where you can take part in student-led tours, talk with representatives from the various colleges and see our beautiful campus. You pick which day - either Saturday (April 17) or Sunday (April 18).

If you already know that Virginia Tech is the place for you, no need to make an extra trip to campus this weekend. If that's the case, we'll see you in July for Orientation!

To view the Hokie Focus schedule, visit our website. If you do plan on attending Hokie Focus, you will need to register for the free event in advance.

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Admissions, it's personal

2010-04-02T06:27:00.000-07:00

By Jonathan Schramm

Assistant Director

Undergraduate Admissions

Here at Virginia Tech we're proud to say we review applications in a holistic manner, which means we consider the entire student: both their academic and personal qualities. I've discussed academics in my last three posts, so now I'd like to highlight the more personal side of admissions.

On the Freshman Application, there are a number of opportunities for applicants to get themselves across on paper. We consider:

Diversity, in its many forms: ethnic, racial, diversity of thought, diversity of religion, geographic diversity, socioeconomic diversity if you happen to be the first in your family to go to college, etc.
Interest in the Corps of Cadets: we see this as an indicator of leadership.
Legacy: if you happen to be the son or daughter of a Virginia Tech graduate.
Activities: we like to see quality vs. quantity.
Community Service: as long as it's not court ordered. (just joking!)
Optional Personal Statement/Essay: 7 different options to choose from.
Letters of Recommendation are not solicited, but you can send them in (just make sure they are sent by your high school with your transcript).

So you can see, even though we receive over 20,000 applications we take everything into consideration.

As always, let us know if you have any questions. It's always nice to know we have readers.

Anyway, tune in next time when we talk about a rare disease high school seniors seem to catch this time of year, called S1N1.

More info:

What Do We Look For?

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Application Review Process: We Care About Curriculum

Related Blogs:

Holistic Review

Application Review Process: We Care About Grades Too!

Application Review Process: Yep, you guessed it! We Care About Scores Too!

How to get in

Student's story: Carly's reflection on being accepted to Virginia Tech

2010-03-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

By Carly, a senior in the College of Science

Major: Math

This coming May, fitted with a gown and cap (probably reading on the top “Thank you Mom and Dad” and “Go Hokies!”), I will be ready to walk with my fellow Class-of-2010-Hokies. At the end of that walk I will be handed my diploma. In my hands will be a symbol of four years of hard work in mathematics, a representation of my never-ending dedication to this university, and an illustration of my love for orange and maroon. I will become a Virginia Tech alumna, a Hokie for life.

My four years of being a student at Virginia Tech have come and gone in the blink of an eye. I can still remember my freshmen orientation back in July 2006, my first day of class mid-August that year, and my very first Hokie football game in September of ’06 - an experience I came to treasure and look forward to every single fall semester.

Even though those years have come and gone quicker than I could imagine, it was four years ago that I found out I was going to become a Hokie. And of course, as luck would have it, Virginia Tech was the last school I heard back from and the one I wanted to be a student at the most. For nearly a month, on a daily basis, I would log into my Hokie Spa account to look at how my application was processing and whether or not a decision had been made. All it ever said was “pending.” Pending…pending…until finally, in the last week of March 2006, it changed from “pending” to “accepted.” At the sight of that word, I did not even know how to react. I was just so excited that I was going to become a part of Virginia Tech’s Class of 2010.

A couple of weeks after finding out via Hokie Spa that I was accepted, I received my formal letter in the mail and the document asking whether or not I wanted to become a part of the student body at Virginia Tech. Within minutes, I signed the form – my mom documenting the occasion with a picture that was to begin the accumulation of photos of my experience as a Hokie. I mailed my acceptance out the same day. I knew I had a month to “decide,” but my choice to say “yes,” if accepted, was settled back in January of 2006 when I submitted my application.

Four years ago I chose to become a Hokie and the experience I have had over those years is one I have loved and will never forget. There are hundreds of photos I will always have as keepsakes showing amazing times at football games, weekend get-togethers with friends, hikes to the Cascades and other spots in the Appalachian Mountains during warmer weather, and other great memories of my time at Virginia Tech. Even though I will be graduating in a couple of months, I will be back to visit this beautiful university multiple times. This place was my home-away-from-home and my love for this university began when I saw the word “accepted.”

More info:

College of Science

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College of Natural Resources

College of Natural Resources Insights: Ginna's Story

2010-03-19T07:07:00.000-07:00

By Ginna, a senior in the College of Natural Resources

Major: Geography, with a concentration in cultural, regional, and international development marketing

As Before I even started at Virginia Tech, I knew I wanted to study Geography. The summer before I started my freshman year, I applied to major in Geography with a Cultural, Regional, and International Development concentration. During the past four years, I have taken some amazing classes, and have experienced some awesome opportunities.

I have studied cultures and current events in World Regions, an extremely popular class throughout the university. I studied the impacts of mountains in both physical and cultural aspects in Mountain Geography. I learned to read maps, and put it into practice in an exercise at a local park during an inter-class competition for Maps and Mapping. I got to create a road trip as an assignment in Geography of North America.

I also was able to spend two and a half weeks studying Geography in England with Virginia Tech faculty members, other Virginia Tech students, and Virginia Public School teachers. During this time I took hikes in Cumbria in northern England, visited the romantic Cotswolds, and rode the Tube in London.

The College of Natural Resources has helped me have a fantastic experience at Virginia Tech. I have made wonderful friends, studied with kind and knowledgeable professors, and added to my cultural awareness. I graduate in May, with great pleasure in knowing I have a Geography degree from Virginia Tech. I once read on a coffee cup from Starbucks, that “Geography is a flavor,” and I love the “flavor” that Virginia Tech has given me.

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College of Architecture & Urban Studies

College of Architecture & Urban Studies Insights: Mark's Story

2010-03-15T06:21:00.000-07:00

Mark McKenzie, a sophomore in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies

Major: public and urban affairs

As a second generation Hokie and avid football fan, coming to Virginia Tech for college was an easy decision. However, like many freshman I was completely unsure of what I wanted to study once I got here. There were subjects I enjoyed but nothing I truly had a passion for. I tried several different majors and none seemed like the right fit.

The best decision I have made during my time at Virginia Tech was to study Public and Urban Affairs in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies. This is just one of several unique programs in the college ranging from landscape architecture to interior design. My major is unique in that classes are geared towards giving students skills that directly apply to the professional world. Also, as a smaller major I have had the chance to develop close friendships with my peers. Outside of the classroom, the college offers opportunities like study abroad, internships, and student organizations.

The College of Architecture and Urban Studies prepares students for a wide variety of opportunities. Whether you are interested in the fine arts, design, building construction, or even policy there is a place for you.

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