Rachel Morgante-Richmeier

Office/Department/Unit: U.S. Cyber Range of Virginia Tech, Division of IT
Institution you transferred from: S.U.N.Y Cobleskill
Institution you transferred to: Virginia Tech
What was the biggest challenge you encountered as a transfer college student and how did you overcome it? Feeling like a belonged at a large University where I didn't know anyone! I made myself join orgs, volunteer in the community and try new activities to meet people and find "my belongingness" and what being part of the HOKIE community meant to me. It was a challenge emotionally and physically because as a First Generation college student I worked while going to school which also brings different demands than a student who just attends school and doesn't work!
What is one piece of advice you would give transfer college students? GET INVOLVED! Do not wait for people to "meet you". Try new things, get out of your comfort zone and you'll be amazed at the rich community that being a HOKIE has to offer. Explore outside of Blacksburg, use the bus, the walking trails etc. - the New River Valley is gorgeous, so much to do! Make time to also meet with your advisor, they are a golden connection to all the resources while at VT - if yours isn't a good fit, ask for a better fit!