Architecture at VT!

Virginia Tech is top notch when it comes to Architecture. It is based on the same principle as the Baushaus. Basically, the school wants you to explore all aspects of design. Our first year was a basic design lab, so architecture majors were working with landscape architecture, interior design and industrial design students as well. It is definitely an open, enjoyable experience aimed at working both independently and as a team. The atmosphere encourages healthy competition, but is not cut-throat like other Architecture schools.

The workload itself varies from professor to professor but you WILL pull all-nighters. There is no avoiding it!

The curriculum is pretty set in stone when you start as a freshman. Your first year design professor is your advisor, but you are only given an open elective here or there. You have to follow what they have planned out already for you pretty strictly. The first year is fairly easy, but GPAs take a nose-dive the second year. The courses definitely get harder and require more and more work, but it is all in your major so it is fairly enjoyable and interesting. The highlights of the program is traveling abroad your fourth year and your fifth year thesis. There are a couple options regarding traveling abroad. There is a residency in Switzerland or you can choose to travel all across Europe.

As far as facilities, the school is located in two buildings next to each other. Cowgill Hall underwent a renovation and reopened in 2008. Burchard Hall is the other building with is actually located underground and houses the computer lab for all the design students. You are given a desk each year, and are able to access it 24/7. Most students tend to hang around studio most of their time. Like my first year professor said, "Studio should be your first home, your dorm or apartment is just a place to sleep."

As for internships and jobs, the School of Architecture and Design puts on a "fair" of students resumes. Firms from all over come to view them and can offer these students jobs and internships.

Definitely a Party School

A shirt sold at one of the stores on Main Street states our school pretty well, "A drinking school with a Football problem." Drinking is very popular, because most of the parties occur at the numerous apartments available off-campus. Most of the student population lives off-campus, and its easy to access the various apartment complexes from almost anywhere around Blacksburg. Other drugs on the other hand are there, but are harder to come by. It would be easier to find a "druggie" in high school than at Virginia Tech. It all depends on who you hang out with.

Have It Your Way!

Virginia Tech has a very good bus system that gets you around town, campus, and to the numerous apartment complexes. A lot of students use it as their main mean of transportation. The campus is also very walking friendly, but there are students that prefer to ride their bikes. As for bikes, there are a couple bike lanes designed into the roads since they are a popular option. Cars are also a good option, but it is hard to find parking! Arrive way early to class to get a spot or have enough time to chase down a parking spot. Luckily, a new parking garage is being built which is going to help so much! Anyway you look at it, you can't go wrong! It's totally your choice.