Ava Hoover: Burlington Scholarship Recipient for the BIT Department, 2025-2026

Ava Hoover, a transfer student and Burlington Scholarship recipient, is exploring the intersection of business and technology in Virginia Tech’s BIT program is a focus on Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSM). Through internships and hands-on projects, she’s gaining skills to make a real impact in operations, supply chain, and business management.

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to choose the BIT major at Virginia Tech?

I transferred to Virginia Tech as a sophomore from ODU because VT was my dream school growing up. I originally majored in accounting but switched to BIT after realizing the major offers a wide range of career opportunities. I also love that the program is new and growing, and I want to help boost its reputation as a student.

2. What has been your favorite class or project in the BIT program so far, and why?

I’ve taken only two BIT classes so far, but I really enjoyed BIT 2406. It was the first time I felt I was learning something directly relevant to my future career. I gained confidence learning how to create and interpret Excel graphs and analyses to recommend business decisions—a skill many classes don’t teach but that’s essential for the business world.

3. Are there any professors, mentors, or peers who have had a significant impact on your academic journey?

Professor Pienkowski has been incredibly supportive. In Foundations of Business, he recognized my drive and guided me through the internship process, helping me improve my resume and understand what it takes to secure an internship. His support reflects why the Pamplin College of Business is such an amazing program.

4. What scholarship did you receive, and how did you feel when you found out you were selected?

I received the Burlington Scholarship. I was surprised and excited since I hadn’t applied for many scholarships. Reading the email made me smile—it felt like my hard work was recognized and also helped ease some financial burden on my parents.

5. What does receiving this scholarship mean to you personally and academically?

It motivates me to keep striving for excellence and hopefully earn more scholarships in the future. Being selected out of all applicants is meaningful, and I’m grateful for the Burlington family’s recognition of my achievements.

6. How will this scholarship support your goals during the upcoming academic year?

It helps my parents save on tuition, allowing me to invest in certifications to become a more marketable student and future employee.

7. What are your short-term and long-term career goals?

Short-term, I want to land a job quickly after graduation. I’ve already gained an internship and will leverage that experience for another in summer 2026, ideally leading to a full-time position. Long-term, I aim to become a Project Manager. I’ll refine my focus after gaining experience in both the public and private sectors and continue earning certifications to boost my technical skills.

8. Are there any specific industries, companies, or roles you're particularly excited about pursuing?

I hope to intern at TowneBank next summer. I made it to the final round last year but lacked some technical experience. I love their community focus and the 3-year post-college program they offer. I’m confident that with the right internship experience, I can secure a role there.

9. How do you see your BIT education helping you make an impact in your future career?

BIT is versatile, allowing me to explore various jobs and move between roles throughout my career. Virginia Tech also offers strong alumni connections and guest speakers who provide guidance and networking opportunities, setting me up for success.

10. Are you involved in any student organizations, internships, or research projects? If so, how have they shaped your experience?

I interned this summer as a Public Safety Systems Analyst for the City of Virginia Beach. I led a capstone project building an AI agent for the fire department, gaining experience in Microsoft Copilot Studio and AI engineering. This internship has been eye-opening and has boosted my confidence for future career endeavors.

11. What advice would you give to other students who are working toward earning scholarships or excelling in the BIT program?

Study hard and always put forth your best effort. Consistently doing your best builds confidence and prepares you to be the best employee and student you can be.

12. Is there a quote, motto, or personal philosophy that motivates you?

My motivation is internal. I strive to be self-sufficient and achieve my dreams so my future family doesn’t face the struggles I’ve seen. My mother instilled in me the value of independence, and I work every day to move closer to my goals.