Beyond Boundaries Scholars: Empowering Hokies through connection and opportunity
Through financial support, mentorship, and community, the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program helps students like Carlton Harris, Michael Duarte, and Samantha Whilby thrive in their academic, personal, and professional pursuits.
Collage of 2024 BBS Scholars
At Virginia Tech, education goes beyond the classroom – it’s about igniting students’ passions and providing opportunities that help turn their dreams into reality.
The Beyond Boundaries Scholars program embodies this spirit by removing financial barriers and creating pathways for students to access transformative opportunities and experiences that enable them to become future leaders, innovators, and thinkers.
From mentorship to personal development and connection, the program supports students like Carlton Harris, Michael Duarte, and Samantha Whilby as they discover who they are, and who they are meant to be.
Carlton Harris
Carlton Harris is a senior studying civil engineering. For him, the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program is more than a scholarship – it is a gateway to growth and belonging.
“It feels like everyone is a part of something bigger than themselves, and I think that really sets Virginia Tech apart,” Carlton said. “Here, I feel like I am part of a community, and I have a sense of belonging.”
He credits the program with broadening his horizons and helping him pursue his passions while finding purpose.
“I came into the College of Engineering with a lot of questions. Beyond Boundaries is a program that develops and helps you, and being here has changed my views and perspective so much.”
Michael Duarte
For Michael Duarte, a sophomore studying computer science, being part of the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program is about personal development.
“Beyond Boundaries has made it possible for me to focus on my schoolwork and the college experience as a whole without having financial worries,” Michael explained.
Through workshops on time management and stress relief, Michael has developed skills to navigate the challenges of college life, and beyond.
“Beyond Boundaries offers mentoring and resources so I can reach out when I need anything,” he said, highlighting how the program creates opportunities for Hokies to learn and grow both personally and professionally.
Samantha Whilby
Samantha Whilby is a senior pursuing a dual degree in human nutrition, foods, and exercise, and Spanish. For her, the program has been instrumental in experiencing what Virginia Tech has to offer.
She is heavily involved in campus organizations, serving as president of the Theta Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and vice president of the National Pan Hellenic Council. She is also part of the ambassador program for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Beyond Boundaries helps her build meaningful connections with others.
“It’s allowed me to meet other students that I wouldn’t have met otherwise, to embrace and indulge in the Hokie community,” she said.
A testament to what Hokies are capable of
The Beyond Boundaries Scholars program embodies the essence of Virginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve). By reducing barriers and fostering connections, the program equips scholars with the confidence and resources they need to succeed.
For Carlton, Michael, and Samantha the program is a powerful reminder of what they are capable of, and what the Hokie community makes possible for students.
To learn more about the Beyond Boundaries Scholars program, visit give.vt.edu/beyond-boundaries.