AHS Senior Attends Elite Business Academy at Virginia Tech
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Low Moor, VA (Sept. 10, 2024) - Alleghany High School’s Sophia Mundy was one of 26 high school seniors from across the United States who attended a unique experiential learning program at Virginia Tech this summer.
Mundy participated in the Pamplin College of Business’ third annual Inspiring Possibilities Academy, commonly known as PIP. The 10-day learning program was held in July on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg. It was designed to introduce prospective students to aspects of business and business careers.
Mundy, 17, plans to apply for early admission to Virginia Tech. She aspires to pursue a career in accounting or marketing. Approximately 200 students applied for admission to Pamplin’s Inspiring Possibilities Academy. Applicants were required to write an essay and the selection process was also based on academic performance.
“I think I am the only person from the greater Roanoke area who applied and was chosen to attend. There was one student from Los Angeles. I believe two students were from North Carolina. Everyone else was from Northern Virginia. It was a pretty diverse group of students,” she said.
The academy featured over 30 workshops facilitated by Virginia Tech faculty, staff, and Pamplin’s Advisory Council. The students were provided immersive case studies and hands-on scenarios that helped equip them with a deeper understanding of business concepts, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving skills.Â
The workshops focused on seven areas of business: accounting and information systems, business information technology, finance, hospitality and tourism management, management, marketing, and real estate.
“The PIP Academy embodies Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) by integrating Pamplin’s educational programs with hands-on workshops across business disciplines,” said Michelle Seref, Pamplin’s associate dean for undergraduate programs. “Through collaborative projects and engagement with faculty, staff, and alumni, students gain practical skills in problem-solving, leadership, and communication.”
“Additionally, the program enhances the Virginia Tech Advantage by actively recruiting and supporting students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring accessibility to educational opportunities that empower them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond,” Seref said.
Mundy has always been strong in the subject of math. Her interest in business was sparked by her father, who became a business consultant after serving in the U.S. military. Accounting will likely be her field of interest.
“When I had to start thinking about college during my junior year, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, so my dad just suggested business. Earlier this year, when I saw the Virginia Tech program, I became more interested in business. I found out I liked business when I got into the program and learned more about it,” Mundy said.
Employment of accountants over the next decade is expected to exceed most occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. About 130,800 openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year through 2033. The median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $79,880 in May 2023.
Mundy resides in Covington. She will graduate from Alleghany High School next spring. At AHS, she is a member of the National Honor Society, the Beta Club, and the Key Club. She is co-vice president of the Beta Club. The three student organizations encourage leadership by serving others.
“I started thinking about Virginia Tech in March when I first toured the campus. I knew it was a big school. Initially, I thought I would attend college at a smaller school. But I found out that I like a bigger school. It seemed intimidating, at first, but when I got there, it seemed smaller,” she said.
“We are so very proud of our students who take advantage of special opportunities like this one to pursue their interests,” said Kim Halterman and Melinda Snead-Johnson, leaders of AHPS. “These programs are great ways for young people to meet people from around the country as well.”
With approximately 2,700 students, AHPS was created when Alleghany County Public Schools, Covington City Public Schools, and Jackson River Technical Center merged in July 2022. The school division is jointly funded by Alleghany County and the City of Covington.
AHPS news and events are regularly updated on Facebook at AHPublicSchools and Instagram at ahpublicschools. Information is also available at www.ahps.k12.va.us. | | | | | |
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