University Outlines Support for Virginia Tech Advantage
President Tim Sands and Executive Vice President and Provost Cyril Clarke have endorsed the scope of Virginia Tech Advantage, a universitywide commitment to offer a broad educational experience to undergraduate students from Virginia who have financial need, paving the way for the initiative’s ongoing implementation.
Increasing Financial Support for Students
One of the key strategies of Virginia Tech Advantage is reducing unmet financial need for undergraduate Virginians. This will be achieved by increasing financial aid and expanding the Presidential Scholarship Initiative. The aim is to ensure that all students, regardless of their financial background, have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Enhancing Support for Basic Needs and Career Preparation
Another important aspect of Virginia Tech Advantage is increasing support for basic needs and career preparation. The initiative will provide resources such as food assistance and emergency funds to help students overcome financial barriers that may hinder their academic success. Additionally, Virginia Tech will facilitate paid internships and co-ops, offset unmet internship costs, and enhance advising and mentoring to better prepare students for their future careers.
Promoting Transformational Learning Experiences
Virginia Tech Advantage aims to increase resources for transformational learning activities, such as study-abroad and research experiences. By providing opportunities for students to engage in these immersive experiences, the university hopes to broaden their perspectives, enhance their skills, and prepare them for a globalized world.
The Virginia Tech Advantage Steering Committee will continue to play a crucial role in the ongoing implementation of the initiative. Their work includes developing a sustainable infrastructure for programs and initiatives, removing institutional barriers to student success, exploring cost-reduction strategies, and aligning the university to support timely graduation.
President Tim Sands expressed his gratitude to all those involved in defining the ambitious plan and emphasized the university’s commitment to meeting student needs and creating a future full of opportunities for every Hokie graduate.
Virginia Tech Advantage aligns with the university’s strategic plan and motto of Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). By enhancing financial aid and enriching the educational experience for students in need, Virginia Tech aims to position itself as a destination for talented individuals.
