Hi! My name is Silvana, and I’m a second-year student at the University of Virginia studying Political Science. As a first-generation college student, I understand how overwhelming choosing a college can feel, and I love helping future students and families get an authentic look at campus life. I’m involved in student organizations, music, and campus events, and I enjoy sharing insights about academics, student life, housing, dining, traditions, and what it’s really like to be a UVA student. Whether you're considering UVA or just want an honest perspective from a current student, I'd be excited to help you explore campus and answer your questions!

Hometown

Winchester, Virginia

Major(s)

Political Science, Music

Minor(s)

Economics

Clubs, organizations & involvement

HoosOnAux — Social Chair Amnesty at UVA ​/​ Palestinian Freedom Club — Active member; attend meetings, discussions, and educational events focused on human rights and global issues MOVE (Multilingual Outreach Volunteer Effort) — Translation volunteer assisting with language accessibility and community outreach Muslim Student Association (MSA) — Active member; participate in discussions, community events, and religious programming Economics Club — Attend lectures, seminars, networking events, and study sessions Societal AI — Participate in workshops and discussions exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on society, business, and finance Undergraduate Women in Law (UWL) — Attend professional development events, mentorship programs, and discussions about legal careers and UVA Law School

Describe your college experience

My transition to college was challenging at first. As a first-generation college student, I struggled with being away from home and adjusting to a completely new environment. During my first semester, I often went home on weekends, felt lonely, and found myself overwhelmed by the academic workload and responsibilities of college life. Rather than giving up, I pushed myself to get involved and seek support. I attended office hours, asked professors and peers for advice, and made a conscious effort to meet new people and build connections. Over time, I found a close group of friends who became an important support system both socially and academically. By the end of my first year, I felt much more confident and comfortable at UVA. I finished the year with straight A's, became involved in several student organizations, and found an apartment on campus with my friends for the upcoming year. Looking back, the challenges I faced during my transition taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of reaching out for support when needed.

Tip for future students

My biggest piece of advice is to stay on top of your readings and actually use the resources available to you. Many students come to UVA after doing very well in high school without needing to study extensively, but college-level courses can be a major adjustment. Don't wait until you're struggling to seek help. Attend office hours, use tutoring and academic support services, form study groups, and ask questions when you have them. I also wish I had known that it's completely normal not to have everything figured out right away. Making friends, finding your place on campus, and adjusting to college life takes time. Be patient with yourself, put yourself out there, and take advantage of the opportunities around you. You're here for a reason, and UVA offers incredible resources and experiences if you're willing to use them.

Favorite class

My favorite class so far has been International Politics in the Nuclear Age with Professor Todd Sechser. The course explores how nuclear weapons have shaped international relations, foreign policy, and global security since World War II. I absolutely loved Professor Sechser's style of teaching, as he encouraged thoughtful discussion and critical thinking, making complex global issues both engaging and accessible. As a Political Science major, the course strengthened my interest in international affairs and gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges policymakers face in maintaining global security.

Career goals

After college, I plan to attend law school and pursue a career in corporate law. I have always been interested in how legal systems shape businesses, institutions, and society, and I enjoy the analytical thinking and problem-solving that the legal field requires. In the long term, I hope to use my legal education to advocate for others, navigate complex legal challenges, and make a meaningful impact through my work.

Ideal way to spend a free night

Realistically, my ideal free night depends on the mood. If it's a weekend, I'd probably be getting dinner with friends, getting ready to go out, and then ending the night with a trip to Cane's since it's open until 2 a.m. If we're looking for a cheaper option, a Cook Out milkshake is always a favorite, and Chap's giant ice cream cones are hard to beat. If it's a more relaxed night, my friends and I will each grab food from our favorite spots on the Corner, stock up on snacks from the convenience store, and meet up in someone's dorm lounge or apartment. We'll usually binge-watch a show we're obsessed with or make our way through another movie in The Conjuring series. Some of my favorite college memories have come from these simple nights spent hanging out with friends and enjoying the community I've found at UVA.

High school or secondary school

John Handley High School, Winchester, Virginia