Hello! My name is Izzy, and I'm a Youth and Social Innovation major at UVA. When I'm not studying and taking history courses for my minor, I'm either spending time with a good book or thrifting with friends around Charlottesville. On your tour, I’m excited to share not just the facts but an authentic student perspective—the best spots on campus, hidden gems, and what UVA is really like as a student. I want you to experience the same feeling that drew me to this university by showing the community and opportunities.

Hometown

Farmville, Virginia

Major(s)

Youth and Social Innovation major, considering a double major in History

Minor(s)

History minor

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Queer Student Union, Cavalier Daily (former writer for the Arts & Entertainment desk), Food Assist, SWAP, the Art Club, the Baking Club, the Snoopy Club, FFA (Future Fashion Association), and Growing for Change at UVA.

Describe your college experience

My transition to college was originally difficult, as I had a hard time connecting with peers and finding my place at UVA. I come from a rural town in Virginia and had to fight my way through high school education, so I felt that I was at a disadvantage compared to other students. Over time, I made connections through courses and clubs and found my own way of balancing work with establishing friendships. I also became more involved with the city of Charlottesville and not just the campus itself, making sure to keep up with the farmers' markets and community events. My involvement not only improved my demeanor but gave me the confidence to grasp opportunities, such as applying to the International Residential College and later applying to the IRC's annual trip to London for residents. My second year of college felt full of warmth and new experiences more than my first year did, and I understand now that creating a home away from home takes dedication and time. I am excited for my third year and any new opportunities it will provide, including possibly giving tours to others through UVA so they are able to build their own experiences here in Charlottesville.

Tip for future students

I would tell students the honest parts of UVA that I wished tours would have given me when I was an incoming student. First, housing on-campus is not truly guaranteed after your first year, and it is crucial to keep an eye on dates leading up to housing applications and all available off-campus options if that suits an individual better. As a student on aid, I struggled my first-year trying to find second-year housing since many housing options off-campus were not affordable for me or my family. Second, spending time off-campus can be just as beneficial as spending time on-campus. Engaging and learning more of the Charlottesville community can not only improve your knowledge of the area, but can offer more connections you wouldn't have made on-campus. Third, take advantage of student benefits available for you. This includes using your student email for deals, donating to and stopping by the UVA Food Pantry, being in free food and merch GroupMes, attending UVA events curated towards students, learning on student meal plans, and much more. I would have appreciated these pieces of advice coming into UVA, and it would have lifted stress from my shoulders as a newer student.

Favorite class

My favorite class so far has been EDLF 4080 US Education Policy, taught by Katharine Malhotra, which was one of the most educational and valuable courses I've had at UVA. It taught me about the history of educational policy and what crucial decisions impact the branches of our educational system. It gave incredible insight into how redlining, teaching quality, distribution of teachers, federal vs state funding, and much more affect students around the nation today.

Career goals

I hope to work with nonprofit organization leadership as a youth development specialist and create a larger social impact for local communities in need.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I love to unwind after my day, which can include spending time with friends or relaxing on my own. I typically will hang out at a friend's apartment and hang out if we aren't on the corner getting a bite to eat, or I will head back to my dorm and decompress through yoga or reading a book with some of my relaxing playlists in the background. It's rare I get a free night in the beginning of the semester since I always jump ahead on my work, but it leaves more time for clubs and activities in my schedule in the long run.

High school or secondary school

I attended Prince Edward County High School

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot on campus is the small trail that goes around Contemplative Commons, since I walk it nearly every morning to get to Ridely Hall for my classes. It's a more peaceful part of campus surrounded by sunlight and is relatively quiet, and you can spot the heron if you walk it enough. Another one of my favorite spots is the McGregor Room in Shannon Library since I tend to study there a lot once courses begin.