The first year of college is an exciting, albeit occasionally overwhelming, time. Between living away from home in residence halls and managing a college-level course load, it’s important to take advantage of the newfound freedom that comes with college life.

Make the most of your first semester at Virginia Tech by taking time to enjoy and immerse yourself in all that the VT campus has to offer.

  1. Hiking: There are plenty of hiking trails in Blacksburg to explore. You can also see beautiful areas, explore, and be active with Virginia Tech’s Venture Out. Venture Out specializes in outdoor adventure recreation, team building, and quality rental gear — and has resources to help you plan your own perfect adventure.
  2. Duck Pond: For a free and relaxing activity, walk to Duck Pond to visit and watch the ducks. There are plenty of walking trails and benches to sit on and appreciate the natural scenery.
  3. Farmers market: Check out the Blacksburg Farmers Market for produce, baked goods, plants, craft items, and more. Until October, the Farmers Market is on Wednesdays from 2 to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fun activities like watercolor painting are offered too.
  4. Moss Art Center: View art exhibitions and attend performances at the Moss Art Center. Performance tickets are offered to Virginia Tech students for just $10. Students can sign up for free rush tickets for performances.
  5. Downtown food: Become acquainted with downtown Blacksburg through restaurants. From pizza to sushi, there is a favorite flavor for everyone. Extra funds on the Hokie Passport accounts can even be used at select dining establishments. Visit the website for a complete list.
  6. Get fit: Attend a group workout class at McCommas Hall or War Memorial Gymnasium. Workout classes offered include barre, bodypump, cycling, pilates, and yoga. Group exercise pass options are available for purchase.
  7. Gargoyle scavenger hunt: Find the 15 stone gargoyles located across the Blacksburg campus. For a starting hint, begin the search at Saunders Hall.
  8. Meet Virginia Tech’s therapy dogs: Missing your family dog? Meet Josie, Derek, and Epcot, Virginia Tech’s therapy dogs. Each therapy dog holds “pawfice” hours for students to interact with the amazing dogs. On Mondays, Josie is on the second floor of the Newman Library from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. On Tuesdays from 4 to 5 p.m., Derek is at the McComas Hall entrance. On Wednesdays, Epcot is on the first floor of  Squires Student Center from 4 to 5 p.m.
  9. Meet the HokieBird: Keep an eye out for the HokieBird — saying hello is a time-honored Virginia Tech tradition. The HokieBird can be found at Newman Library, walking around campus, or even driving a golf cart.
  10. Gameday traditions: Tailgating outside with friends and family is a fun way to meet new Hokies and alumni while enjoying a football game. Then participate in one of the quintessential moments of Hokie Spirit by cheering on the football team with Metallica’s "Enter Sandman." There are plenty of opportunities for students to attend all kinds of sporting events, intramural games, and tailgates.

For more ideas on exploring Virginia Tech and the surrounding Blacksburg area, visit ExperienceVT.

Written by Anja Hemesath, a senior and a student writer for Virginia Tech Communications and Marketing

 

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