Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of attending Virginia Tech is the almost overwhelming and ever-expanding diversity of choices.
This applies to everything from course request to dining, but it pertains most to extracurricular activities, which ebb and flow with fluctuations in fads, political elections and current events.
The corps of cadets, which was founded with the start of the university in 1872, remains one of the highest regarded entities on campus. And the recent increase in enrollment reflects how popular the option is after all these years.
While the vast majority of students choose the civilian route, the growing population of cadets on campus reflects the overall prestige of the program.
Although it may not seem pertinent to the lives of civilian students, the corps represents the origins and traditions of our university. Formed 20 years before Tech's first football game, the close-knit military community can arguably be described as the beginning of what we now call the "Hokie Nation," and the foundation of the intense school spirit that characterizes Tech.
However, the corps has the potential to set another standard as an example of the benefits of recruiting new students to Tech's plethora of programs.
The increased cadet enrollment is a direct result of displaying the advantages of the program offers. By advertising the close community, scholarships and career opportunities the corps provides for students - even those who choose the corps track without enlisting in the ROTC - it is able to draw interest in not only the program itself, but also the university as a whole. Obviously, this kind of publicity benefits both the students and the program.
Following in the example of the corps, showcasing programs outside of those designated for majors could help attract future students looking for more than just a curriculum. Uniting students in a common interest or goal while offering other benefits, such as scholarships and internship opportunities, may be a more valuable approach to attracting students into Tech's programs than relying on the academic aspect alone.
While theme housing offers a community, it is often times based on certain majors or other specific demographics, and thus limits the appeal and practicality. Not every student fits the criteria for the 14 current theme housing options. Expanding contemporary programs, creating new ones and advertising both is a more effective approach to bringing in enthusiastic and ambitious students to the university's many different opportunities.
The corps is both a reflection of our extensive past and an example of the future of Tech. As the campus and its programs continue to grow, the numerous benefits that our university offers will as well. With good planning, advertising and recruitment, we will continue to see an increase in enrollment.
The editorial board is comprised of Debra Houchins, Peter Velz and Sara Mitchell