This is for all of the high school students thinking about where they will spend the next four years of their lives and for all of the friends and family that wonder why I chose Virginia Tech. For me, Virginia Tech gives students access to the quintessential college experience and a HOME like no other.

As a high school senior deciding where I wanted to spend the next chapter of my life, I felt completely lost and unsure. I visited many incredible colleges that were academically rigorous, had beautiful campuses, offered unique study abroad programs, and were places that I could see myself prospering at. However, it was not until I stepped foot on Virginia Tech’s campus the spring of my senior year, that I truly felt at home. Despite visiting certain colleges numerous times and spending hours prepping for interviews with their admissions boards, after my first visit to Virginia Tech, I knew this place would be my home for the next four years. So, to all of my friends and family who ask me "Why Virginia Tech?", here is your answer. And for all of the high school students out there, I highly encourage you to look into this incredible place that I am honored to call home.

1. Number One “Best Quality of Life” and “Their Students Love These Colleges”

In the 2017 Princeton Review, Virginia Tech received the top scores for “Best Quality of Life” and “Their Students Love These Colleges” out of 381 colleges and universities across the nation. For some high school students, a specific academic curriculum may be the top reason for choosing a college; for others, it may be sports. No matter what a university’s acceptance rate or football team ranking is, a university’s quality of life is an important contributor to a student’s happiness and ultimately success in college.

2. Hokie Hospitality

Southern hospitality is undeniably present on Virginia Tech’s campus. From holding the door for the person behind you, to smiling at everyone you pass while crossing the drill field, to paying it forward for other students, I have never met a more genuine or kind group of people than the faculty, staff, and students at Virginia Tech. The other day at a dining hall when I went to pay for my lunch, the cashier said that I didn’t have enough money left in my dining account. Without hesitation, the student behind me, someone I had never met, handed his Hokie Passport to the cashier to cover the rest of what I owed. Students demonstrate the university’s motto “Ut Prosim” – that I may serve – even in everyday gestures around campus.

3. School Spirit

Game day reminds me why I love being a Hokie. The student section at Lane Stadium is filled with nothing but pride, excitement, and pure love for Virginia Tech and Hokie football. Another indicator of school spirit is the immense number of students that wear Virginia Tech clothing around campus. One of my friends commented, “It’s like everyone here is a walking advertisement for Virginia Tech.” Students are nothing but proud to represent the school that they love.

4. Delicious Dining

Although Virginia Tech lost its spot as No. 1 for “Best College Food,” we are still known for our amazing dining options. From Jamba Juice to Chick-fil-a to Origami Grill, Virginia Tech keeps students satisfied. The university never stops improving, with our new food trucks that drive around campus and drones that will soon deliver Chipotle burritos to students.

5. Campus Views

Finally, with some inspiration from the current Fall season, Virginia Tech has one of the most beautiful college campuses. During Fall, campus boasts Hokie pride with its burnt orange and Chicago maroon leaves. And let’s not forget about Hokie Stone, another Virginia Tech tradition which nearly every campus building is made of. Tradition is something Hokies pride themselves on, which can be seen in every aspect of our university.

This university boasts a powerful alumni network, incredible study abroad programs, a selective Honors College, and countless other opportunities; these are just a few of the reasons why I love Virginia Tech.

This is HOME.