Identities
Who are you?
At Virginia Tech, we believe that the collaboration of cultures, ideas, and different perspectives is an institutional asset that brings forth greater creativity, innovation, and learning for all our community members. That is why we welcome students of all identities, backgrounds, and life experiences and provide resources, programs, and connections for them. We want you to know that you are a valued member of the Hokie Nation and that we can help make your Virginia Tech education an experience that lasts a lifetime.
Students with Disabilities
If you are a student with a disability, the university provides dedicated resources to assist those with disabilities and to address barriers to access, both physical and digital.
First-Generation Students
Are you the first in your family to go to college? If so, you may have questions about how to navigate the university structure and you may want to connect with other first-generation students.
Transfer Students
Are you a transfer student coming to Virginia Tech from another two- or four-year institution? If so, you already have valuable experience in higher education, but we want to ensure you acclimate to Virginia Tech and begin to thrive.
International Students
Are you an international student? You may need assistance with immigration advising, U.S. customs and culture, employment, childcare, and finding a community.
Students in Recovery
Are you someone who identifies as being in recovery from a substance use disorder? Virginia Tech recognizes that being in college and in recovery presents challenges that need support. The Virginia Tech Recovery Community provides a supportive community that understands those needs and helps students achieve their academic success without compromising their well-being.
Veteran Students
Are you a veteran? You may need assistance with utilizing military scholarships or need different resources on campus to help you transition to life as a student.
- The VA will only approve payment for classes that are needed for degree; this does include electives. A veteran or military connected student can pursue more than one major or minor, but all classes need to meet a need under a major.
- A student using veterans educational benefits, like the GI Bill, only have a total of 36 months of available benefits (8 months for standard academic year Fall & Spring). It’s imperative to try to complete all degree requirements in 4 academic years before benefits exhaust.
- Maximum VA living stipend payments to students are based on full time enrollment (12 crs for undergraduate students, 9 crs graduate students). Also, the earlier a student can register, the quicker they can be paid their living stipend. This can make force add time-lines really hard for VA benefit users.
Cultural or Ethnic Identities
If you are a member of a specific cultural or ethnic identity, Virginia Tech offers programming, resources, groups, and events to raise cultural awareness and invite the community to learn about and develop an appreciation for cultural differences.
LGBTQ+ and Gender Equity
Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ Community? Are you seeking support for gender-based issues? Check out the events, initiatives, programs, and services specifically designed for the LGBTQ+ community and for the support of gender equity.
Religion, Faith, or Spiritual Identities
If you are a member of a particular religion, faith, or spiritual group, there are many organizations on campus you can join. Virginia Tech is also expanding an initiative to develop interfaith dialogue and build bridges between faith communities on campus.
- Visit GobblerConnect and search Organizations by keyword.
- Interfaith Program
- Religious and Ethnic Holidays
- The Interfaith Calendar
- 2017 Interfaith Consultant Report
- Making Meaning - Chapter 8: Personal Exploration and National Trends, The Future for Students of All Faith Backgrounds (Dr. Frank Shushok Jr. and Dr. Patricia A. Perillo)
Cultural and Community Centers
Virginia Tech’s Cultural and Community Centers create the conditions for underrepresented student success and develop the cultural competence of every Virginia Tech student. Six important, culture-specific spaces within Squires Student Center provide a welcoming learning environment where you can join others in celebrating your heritage and/or identity designation.