Class of 2025: Erica Feuerstein cultivates connection through education and outreach
An Outstanding Senior in the Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education, Feuerstein is headed into garden-based education before pursuing graduate studies in community leadership.
Name: Erica Feuerstein
Hometown: Middletown, Virginia
College: College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Department: Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education
What are your plans after graduation?
I’ll be working as an education specialist with the Oak Spring Garden Foundation for a year. After that, I’ll begin a master’s program in community and leadership development at the University of Kentucky. Long term, I hope to build a career in education outreach.
What’s been the best part of your major?
I’ve loved how close-knit and supportive the Department of Agricultural, Leadership, and Community Education is. You really get to know all your classmates and become friends. My favorite class was floral design. I loved it so much, I became a teaching assistant for the course, which has given me so many incredible opportunities to meet with different people and give back to the campus.
What hands-on experiences helped shape your career goals?
I interned for two years at the Hahn Horticulture Garden, where I worked on everything from event planning to guided tours to basic horticultural care. That experience was hugely influential in shaping me into the person I am today and sparked my passion for education and outreach.
What extracurriculars were meaningful to you?
I was involved in Chi Omega, Horticulture Club, PAX Honor Society, Student Alumni Associates, and Best Buddies. These groups made my college experience complete. I met so many of my closest friends and created lasting memories. Being part of organizations that have a purpose beyond myself was deeply meaningful — and also a lot of fun.
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Virginia Tech?
One of the most fulfilling things I’ve done is helping with the April 16 Memorial. We’ve had the honor of creating floral arrangements for each of the individuals lost, based on the wishes of their families. We also designed all the wreaths used during the ceremonies. It’s incredibly moving to see the campus come together during such a meaningful week for the Hokie community.
How did scholarships support your education?
Scholarships made my time at Virginia Tech possible. They gave me access to incredible opportunities I couldn’t have afforded otherwise and reduced financial stress so I could focus more fully on academics and extracurricular involvement.