University Life

George �鶹��Ƶ’s Teaching Kitchen offers students cooking tips and community

Katarina Benson — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:10:30 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ’s Teaching Kitchen offers students cooking tips and community Katarina Benson Tue, 03/24/2026 - 17:10

In February, �鶹��Ƶ Dining, in partnership with the Office of New Student and Family Programs, hosted a Teaching Kitchen designed specifically for first-year and transfer students. The 50 available spots filled immediately, a clear signal that today’s students are looking for connection, not just consumption.

The session was led by Chef William Weaver, director of student engagement, and Chef George Charbel, campus executive chef. Together, they guided students through three hands-on stations focused on practical, confidence-building skills. The first was chocolate mug cakes, which introduced foundational baking techniques. The second, overnight oats, reinforced nutrition and smart meal planning. The last station was elevated ramen, used to teach students how to transform a staple food item into a balanced, intentional meal.

Students created three recipes. Photo provided

But the real outcome wasn’t the recipes. It was community.

“We chose to offer this Teaching Kitchen class to give first-year students a fun opportunity to learn a new skill, connect with their peers, and begin building a sense of community early in their college experience,” Jonathan Holcomb, associate director of New Student Programs.

The �鶹��Ƶ Dining Voice and Vision survey made it clear that dining is one of the most powerful touchpoints for belonging for students. Of the first-year students surveyed, 60.6% said dining helps them adjust to college life, and 53.1% said dining helps them feel welcome on campus.

For first-year and transfer students especially, the transition to campus can feel isolating. A teaching kitchen changes that dynamic. The shared experience sparks conversation and builds confidence among students, turning strangers into peers.

“I loved this event,” said George �鶹��Ƶ first-year student Esther Agbara, who participated in the event. “I liked how everyone was cooperating with each other.”

The Teaching Kitchen is part of �鶹��Ƶ Dining’s ongoing engagement-based programming. The team hosts monthly events centered on different themes. Throughout the year, �鶹��Ƶ Dining also offers a variety of experiential events, including its Supper Club series, a fine-dining-style experience hosted in the dining halls.

�鶹��Ƶ Dining and the workshop students. Photo provided

At George �鶹��Ƶ, dining is more than a service. It is a strategy for belonging—one intentionally designed to support student transition, build confidence, and reinforce the university’s commitment to helping every student succeed.

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Transfer Nation 2026 builds community for transfer and contemporary students

Katarina Benson — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:29:10 +0000

Transfer Nation 2026 builds community for transfer and contemporary students Katarina Benson Mon, 03/02/2026 - 13:29

On February 4, Transfer Nation 2026 welcomed transfer and contemporary students for an afternoon focused on connection and reflection. As part of �鶹��Ƶ’s First-Year Connection programming, the event emphasized community-building and highlighted the academic and personal support systems available across campus.

George �鶹��Ƶ's New Student and Family Programs office offers a mid-year Orientation in the fall for students joining the university in the spring semester. Students pictured are at Orientation in November 2023. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

First-Year Connection initiatives are designed to enhance engagement, strengthen academic success, and support personal growth for students new to George �鶹��Ƶ. For transfer students who often have less time to acclimate than first-year students, the need for early connection is especially critical.

“This particular event is really a chance for transfer students to meet each other and learn that they are not alone in their experience here,” said Caroline Simpson, assistant director of New Student and Family Programs (NSFP). “They’re not the only ones going through different challenges or struggles. They have community.”

Simpson noted that the gathering also encouraged students to set goals early in the semester—an important step for transfers navigating a new academic environment on a compressed timeline.

Getting connected

Richard Tenia, who transferred from Northern Virginia Community College, entered George �鶹��Ƶ in fall 2025 with plans to refine his academic focus in arts and visual technology. Adjusting to a larger campus proved challenging at first, he said, but support from his resident advisors (RAs) and attending �鶹��Ƶ360 events helped him build connections quickly.

Zell Preston, a transfer student from Laurel Ridge Community College, highlighted the university’s diversity and campus involvement as central to her experience. She credited her success coach with helping her move from forensic science to criminology, and benefited from connecting with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). The breadth of support at George �鶹��Ƶ, she said, made a significant difference in the transition.

Transfer Nation also showcased available support for working adults balancing professional and family responsibilities. Jennifer Rogel, who manages two full-time jobs while enrolled as a full-time student, credited transfer-focused programming for the ease of her transition.

After attending two transfer events in November, she gained clarity on course registration and access to follow-up resources. Receiving a free laptop through the Student Support and Advocacy Center also proved instrumental.

For Rogel, the experience underscored an important point: Resources only matter if students know how to access them. “I believe there are resources for everybody,” she said. “The thing is, are we taking advantage of them? Do we know those resources exist?”

Transfer Nation addressed that gap directly. By making support visible—and personal—the event helped ensure that services did not remain abstract listings on a website, but tools students felt confident using.

For students who arrive at George �鶹��Ƶ mid-journey, connection is not incidental. Transfer Nation reflects a broader institutional commitment: that at George �鶹��Ƶ, every student succeeds—including those who began somewhere else.

First-year student? Attend future events

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Paul Bazzano is March Employee of the Month

Katarina Benson — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:28:24 +0000

Paul Bazzano is March Employee of the Month Katarina Benson Mon, 03/02/2026 - 09:28

Paul Bazzano has worked for �鶹��Ƶ Recreation for more than 30 years. He started as a student worker while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in communication at �鶹��Ƶ and is now assistant director of competitive sports and athletic training.

March Employee of the Month Paul Bazzano with President Gregory Washington. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

Colleagues have applauded Bazzano for his outstanding leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing �鶹��Ƶ Recreation’s mission. He has made numerous contributions that have strengthened �鶹��Ƶ Recreation’s programs, elevated its visibility across campus and beyond, and deepened the university’s commitment to inclusive and adaptive recreation. For these reasons, Bazzano was selected as the March Employee of the Month.

In their nominations, many of Bazzano’s colleagues talked about how he went above and beyond in coordinating two major university events that brought together campus and community partners in meaningful ways.

The first event was the National Beep Baseball All-Star Tournament, which brought more than 70 blind and visually impaired athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across the country to George �鶹��Ƶ. In addition to the tournament, Bazzano organized a Learn-to-Play Clinic, giving about 25 visually impaired students and community members the opportunity to experience Beep Baseball for the first time.

“Paul has continued to elevate the profile of our department and the awareness of a wonderful adaptive sport,” said Sheldon Tate, executive director of �鶹��Ƶ Recreation. “He has poured himself fully into the Beep Baseball movement and is quickly becoming the quintessential ally for individuals with disabilities. We are proud to follow his lead, and there are dozens of colleagues across campus who would absolutely agree that Paul is raising the bar.”

“Through his leadership, Paul has strengthened partnerships with organizations such as Game One, MindsEye, Lighthouse for the Blind, and the Metro Washington Association of Blind Athletes,” said Ethan Carter, associate director of programs, well-being, and assessment. “He also began discussions with the Junior Tennis Champions Center to host a wheelchair tennis event in Spring 2026, expanding George �鶹��Ƶ’s reach and reputation in adaptive sports.”

In addition to forging new opportunities for differently abled athletes, Bazzano supports all the students who participate in �鶹��Ƶ Recreation’s programs, said Jennifer Tolson, head athletic trainer at �鶹��Ƶ Recreation

“Paul works day and night to help our club teams and intramurals succeed both on and off the field,” said Tolson. “He’s always finding ways to make things happen—even when it seems impossible. A great example of this is when our football team had an opponent forfeit. Paul immediately searched for another team to play, ensuring our athletes still got the experience they deserved. That’s who Paul is—he never gives up on our teams and always fights to give them the best opportunities possible.”

How did you come to �鶹��Ƶ:

I started at George �鶹��Ƶ in 1995 as an undergraduate student and never really left. I worked in athletics and recreation as a student, and after graduation I was offered the chance to continue doing work I loved. �鶹��Ƶ has been home ever since.

Best day on the job:

It is hard to narrow it down to one day. March 2006 during the Final Four run stands out. I was responsible for supervising the student bus to Dayton, Ohio, for the first round, and what was supposed to be a quick trip turned into something much bigger. The pride on campus during that stretch is something I have never seen before and have not seen since.

What do you like best about working at �鶹��Ƶ:

Watching students grow and move on to do great things. What means the most is when they come back and reconnect. Knowing you played even a small role in their experience stays with you.

What do you like to do when you’re not working:

I enjoy staying active. Whether it is playing a sport or just finding ways to stay healthy, that has always been an important part of my life. I have also taken up sports photography, which has been a fun creative outlet and another way to give back to our students.

Nominate a colleague for Employee of the Month

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Patriot Pantry expands to �鶹��Ƶ Square

Katarina Benson — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:11:33 +0000

Patriot Pantry expands to �鶹��Ƶ Square Katarina Benson Thu, 01/29/2026 - 16:11

On January 20, �鶹��Ƶ expanded one of its most essential student support services. The Patriot Pantry officially opened a new location at �鶹��Ƶ Square, extending food security resources to a campus that primarily serves graduate and professional students.

Operated by the Basic Needs Services team at the Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC), the pantry provides nonperishable food and hygiene products to students experiencing food insecurity. The service is designed to reduce stigma and remove barriers that can interfere with academic success.

The idea to expand the Patriot Pantry to �鶹��Ƶ Square began with students in Jennifer Sklarew’s EVPP 480 Sustainability in Action class who noticed a gap in resources for �鶹��Ƶ Square’s predominantly graduate and professional student population.

The Pantry is housed in the Student Lounge in Van Metre Hall, Room 211. Photo provided

Environmental science major Julia Frost, environmental and sustainability studies majors Isabella Barrera and Crystal Park, and business major Noah Brown, mentored by Sklarew, an assistant professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy, partnered with SSAC to create the new pantry. All four graduated in 2025.

With funding from a �鶹��Ƶ Impact Mini Grant awarded by the Office of Undergraduate Education, the students funded the storage cabinet now used for pantry order pickup. SSAC assumed responsibility for operations, integrating the �鶹��Ƶ Square location into its broader Basic Needs Services model and ensuring the pantry would function as a permanent, low-barrier resource.

“Food insecurity is a challenge no one should have to face, yet many do,” Barrera said. “Our goal is to help ensure that all students have access to a basic human right: food.”

The Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square builds on a service with a long history at George �鶹��Ƶ. What began nearly 12 years ago on the Fairfax Campus as a volunteer-led effort became a permanent student service in 2016, housed within SSAC. Since then, pantry usage has increased by 990%.

The expansion was also supported by funds from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) through the Hunger-Free Campus Food Pantry grant program. These funds will be used to stock the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square with nonperishable food items and essential hygiene products.

Additional support was provided by a $10,000 College Pantry Grant from the Capital Area Food Bank, awarded to SSAC at a time when demand for basic needs support continues to grow.

Professor Jennifer Sklarew, Isabella Barrera, Crystal Park, and Noah Brown, with Melissa Thierry, director, University Life Regional Campuses, standing by the pick-up cabinet for the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square. Photo provided.

Dwayne Hamilton Jr., assistant director for Basic Needs Services, emphasized the pantry’s role in supporting students from diverse economic backgrounds, particularly graduate students who are often overlooked in higher education support services.

“Addressing basic needs concerns through the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square moves students toward the ideal experience at George �鶹��Ƶ: freedom and learning,” he said.

Students can now place orders through the Patriot Pantry at �鶹��Ƶ Square order page and pick up items in the cabinet in the Student Lounge in Van Metre Hall, Room 211—a discreet, accessible location designed to prioritize privacy and dignity.

Community members may also support the pantry by donating nonperishable food and hygiene products through the Amazon Wishlist, contributing to the Student Food and Housing Insecurity Fund, or dropping off donations in the Student Lounge in Van Metre Hall, Room 211. A full list of accepted items is available on the Patriot Pantry homepage.

In This Story

Jennifer Sklarew

Learn more about University Life at George �鶹��Ƶ

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Mini career fair helps neurodivergent students build job search skills

ckearney — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 21:01:51 +0000

Mini career fair helps neurodivergent students build job search skills ckearney Tue, 01/06/2026 - 16:01

A mini career fair in October brought together 17 students and nine employer partners for a networking experience designed with intention: a quieter, structured environment where neurodivergent students could practice professional skills without the sensory overload of a conventional career event.

The mini career fair gave students space to rehearse their personal pitches, ask questions, and receive individualized feedback. Photo provided

Hosted by �鶹��Ƶ’s �鶹��Ƶ Autism Support Initiative (MASI) and the Executive Functioning Program (EFP) in Disability Services, in collaboration with University Career Services (UCS), the event gave students space to rehearse their personal pitches, ask questions, and receive individualized feedback.

Employers from organizations including Fairfax County Government, the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, Melwood, BroadFutures, and the Organization for Autism Research’s Hire Autism Program met students and offered insight into job opportunities, workplace culture, and accessibility. The focused, calm, and conversational tone made it clear that this was not simply a recruitment event; it was an environment engineered for confidence-building.

MASI and EFP created the fair in response to a familiar challenge: large crowded networking events often obscure rather than illuminate opportunity, particularly for neurodivergent students. Here, students moved through a sequence of core skills, including introducing themselves, articulating employment goals, presenting a résumé, and posing targeted questions. Employers responded with candid, practical feedback rooted in real workplace expectations.

The approach worked. Sharon Toda, EFP assistant director, noted that 60% of students reported encountering no obstacles during their interactions—an uncommon statistic for a group that frequently names career fairs as particularly stressful events. For those who did describe challenges, such as uncertainty about how to introduce themselves or what information employers might want, staff emphasized that these moments are exactly the point: The fair exists to make the unfamiliar navigable.

Employer enthusiasm matched student engagement. According to Toda, several employer partners were “pleasantly surprised by the university’s initiative to support individuals with disabilities,” and one partner was motivated enough by the experience to help recruit an additional employer for future fairs. Their participation reflected a shared understanding that access and preparation are not separate goals but mutually reinforcing ones.

First piloted in the spring 2025 semester, the MASI/EFP mini career fair continues to evolve through close collaboration with employer partners and Ann Garner, a Career Services advisor. Participants also had access to a preparation workshop, led by UCS career advisor Zakeyah Frazier.

The fair echoes George �鶹��Ƶ’s broader mission of inclusion and creates yet another path for student success. By shaping the environment around students’ needs and engaging employers committed to accessible hiring, MASI and EFP turned a standard career interaction into something intentional and empowering. The mini career fair is set to return in April 2026.

To learn more about Disability Services’ programming and events, visit ds.gmu.edu.

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Adaptive baseball hits a home run at George �鶹��Ƶ

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 21:04:21 +0000

Adaptive baseball hits a home run at George �鶹��Ƶ Katarina Benson Tue, 12/16/2025 - 16:04

In a first for any university in the United States, visually impaired baseball players are getting a chance to step up to the plate at �鶹��Ƶ. Led by a volunteer coach and University Life’s �鶹��Ƶ Recreation and Disability Services offices, �鶹��Ƶ’s Beep baseball initiative is gaining momentum after a successful community learn-to-play clinic last fall.

Beep baseball allows blind and visually impaired batters to listen for a loud beep coming from a ball pitched by a sighted pitcher. Photo by Paul Bazzano/�鶹��Ƶ Recreation

The adaptive sport of Beep baseball allows blind and visually impaired batters to listen for a loud beep coming from a ball pitched by a sighted pitcher. If the batter hits the ball, they run to one of two buzzing bases. If they touch the base before the ball is fielded, they’ve scored a run. It’s a game that prioritizes communication, teamwork, and athleticism. This initiative supports George �鶹��Ƶ’s efforts to build an inclusive community where all students are valued and have meaningful ways to participate, connect, and belong.

“Beep baseball is a fantastic way for �鶹��Ƶ to tap into some underserved populations via athletics,” said Paul J. Bazzano, assistant director of competitive sports with �鶹��Ƶ Recreation. “Beep baseball brings together students, staff, and community members in a meaningful way. It’s about creating space for inclusive play and laying the groundwork for something that can grow far beyond campus.”

Bazzano said that it is also providing opportunities for George �鶹��Ƶ as there really are no collegiate Beep baseball programs. “But we have had some conversations with other schools interested in forming their own teams.”

The addition of Beep baseball to �鶹��Ƶ Recreation represents the fulfillment of a lifelong passion of a George �鶹��Ƶ philanthropist, the late Dr. Barry R. Berkey, through the vision of his wife, Velma Berkey. She proposed the idea to Bazzano and sponsored the three-year pilot program.

The beep baseball initiative by �鶹��Ƶ Recreation is the first of its kind. Photo by Paul Bazzano/�鶹��Ƶ Recreation

“My husband’s dream was to become a major league baseball player, but he became a doctor instead,” Berkey said. “In later years Barry’s vision gradually deteriorated, which greatly impacted watching and enjoying his favorite sport. We became very sensitive to visually impaired and blind kids who may be in the same position. After my husband passed away, I delved into reading about Beep baseball, which inspired me to present the sport to �鶹��Ƶ.”

Berkey said the George �鶹��Ƶ community has an opportunity to be an innovator and leader by bringing this sport to campus and the region. “The team can serve as a model for other colleges and universities, serving as a mentor further down the road for high schools and Little League teams.”

Jeff Rhines, head coach of the Philadelphia team that won the 2024 Beep Baseball National Championship, helped arrange �鶹��Ƶ’s first learn-to-play clinic. Alfonso Medrano, head coach for a Houston-based team, also provided valuable input. Students and members of the surrounding community who participated described it as a fantastic community-building experience.

“We had two blind students who thoroughly enjoyed it and said they would definitely do it again,” said Naomi Martinez-Jones, director of Disability Services at George �鶹��Ƶ. “We also had some of George �鶹��Ƶ’s baseball team help and participate. It was great for everyone to have that connection with each other.”

George �鶹��Ƶ’s long-term goal is to build a competitive team made up of students, staff, and community members to play in tournaments and events sanctioned by the National Beep Baseball Association. As a first step, �鶹��Ƶ Recreation is working to connect with other teams and recruiting a volunteer coach. There are plans to offer more training and networking events and launch a sustainable, inclusive team with regular practices and programming.

To learn more, reach out to Bazzano at pbazzano@gmu.edu.

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George �鶹��Ƶ coaching leaders hold first professional conference

Katarina Benson — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:20:38 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ coaching leaders hold first professional conference Katarina Benson Tue, 12/16/2025 - 13:20

Student Affairs and Academic Advising professionals from across the country attended the first Student Success Coaching Conference: Ignite Your Success Through Coaching in October. The conference, hosted by �鶹��Ƶ’s Student Success Coaching (SSC) unit, provided an opportunity for more than 400 coaching professionals from 100 institutions—including Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, Purdue University, and others—to collaborate and learn from each other.

George �鶹��Ƶ's Student Success Coaching team hosted its first professional conference, helping to facilitate professional development for a growing field in higher education. Photo provided

Envisioned by SSC associate director TJ Pegg and assistant director Michael Ward, the conference was born from a simple idea: to create a space for coaching professionals within higher education to come together. The main goals of the conference were to create a purposeful space for the student success coaching community to learn, share, and collaborate in an ever-changing field, and to offer dedicated time and opportunities to connect with peers and gain new insights.

“We wanted our team to have the chance to host a conference fully,” said Ward. “We envision George �鶹��Ƶ becoming a global hub for the student success coaching field, much like Kansas State is for academic advising.”

“We wanted to make sure that we’re connecting with other coaching communities so that we can learn from each other, as success is a layered achievement,” Pegg said.

Success coaching has grown as a new functional area to support student success within the higher education. Since 2020, the university’s SSC unit has supported more than 20,000 students in achieving individualized success.

The need to support coaching professionals has grown into a collaboration with international associations like the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the American College Personnel Association (ACPA). NASPA’s Success Coaching Knowledge Community was cofounded by Adrienne White, former SSC director. Pegg and success coach Michael Rybak cofounded ACPA’s Task Force for Coaching.

Conference sessions addressed how to use coaching for student success, best practices of student assessment, and other trending topics. Attendees had opportunities to learn from one another and network through collaboration spaces, all online.

“Attending the sessions expanded my perspective and introduced new strategies and innovations that can be applied to my work,” said Tanzania Cooper, a presenter and attendee from Trinity Washington University. “I left the conference re-energized, connected to new colleagues, and motivated to continue bridging research, practice, and advocacy to elevate student success.”

Nena Rogers, two-time George �鶹��Ƶ alumna and current deputy athletic director for Student Services and Performance, delivered the opening keynote speech focused on the power of coaching to help students thrive.

“This is the perfect time for higher education professionals to come together in this capacity to share the knowledge, tools, and the amazing results that success coaching has on students’ lives,” said Kelly Severo, director of Student Success Coaching. “I’m excited to see this conference grow into an even bigger event in 2026. Coaching in higher education is a rapidly growing field, and the impact on students’ lives cannot be overstated.”

Student Success Coaching at George �鶹��Ƶ

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March 17, 2026

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Global affairs grad encourages others to give back to their communities

Katarina Benson — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:17:17 +0000

Global affairs grad encourages others to give back to their communities Katarina Benson Wed, 12/10/2025 - 14:17

Tereana Battle can look back on many accomplishments during her time at �鶹��Ƶ, but one of the memories that gives her the most satisfaction is her capstone project, creating an anti-bullying workshop for middle school students.

With her workshop, she helped equip students in Loudoun County with cultural competency skills so they can treat one another with kindness and respect.

A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, Battle is graduating this month with a bachelor’s degree in global affairs.

Battle said giving back to the community is important to her because as a young person she sought out mentorship and guidance and wanted to provide that for other students. During her time at George �鶹��Ƶ, she served as a Patriot Leader, helping new students and their families make the transition to college through Orientation and other programs.

Battle also participated in the Bonner Leadership Program, which combines exploration of citizenship and democracy studies with civic engagement through work at community agencies. “Not only did it help me with my vocational experiences, but also allowed me to continue to study full time as an undergraduate student,” she said.

At an internship with Catholic Charities Diocese of Arlington provided Battle with another opportunity for service. There, she learned about immigration policy while assisting families.

Battle also took advantage of many of the student services the university offers, including the Writing Center, career readiness and success coaching.

“With the Writing Center, I was able to create my goal statement, and with my goal statement, I was able to get into the Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Program within the Schar School, which is highly competitive,” Battle said. She plans to pursue a master of public administration.

She served in Student Government and worked as an access services student assistant for the University Libraries. She also studied in Spain through the Global Gateway scholarship program, living with a host family and improving her Spanish language skills.

She was also a member of Every Nation on Campus, or ENC, a faith-based group.

She encourages current and future Patriots to find clubs that align with their passion and values.

Connect with the Alumni Association

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The 2025 Family of the Year enjoys life on campus

Katarina Benson — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:38:59 +0000

The 2025 Family of the Year enjoys life on campus Katarina Benson Tue, 11/25/2025 - 11:38

The Dr. Alan and Sally Merten Family of the Year Award honors the essential role families play in supporting their students at �鶹��Ƶ. Students nominate their families, and the Family of the Year Award is announced at Family Weekend in the fall. The Choi family is the 14th Family of the Year recipient.

Eun Kyung (EK) Choi is a full-time graduate student in the Inclusive Early Childhood Education Program in the College of Education and Human Development—and a dedicated student parent.

The Choi family is the 2025 Family of the Year. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Her journey to George �鶹��Ƶ began when she and her husband moved to the United States after he was posted to the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Washington, D.C., by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With this major transition came an opportunity: Choi chose to pursue a teaching license, hoping to one day work in international schools around the world.

But after welcoming their baby, Choi found herself unsure how she could continue her master’s program. “I wasn’t sure how I could finish my master’s degree,” she recalled.

That’s when her husband made a pivotal decision: He took a year of parental leave to care for their baby, ensuring Choi could fully focus on her studies. His support made all the difference. Choi successfully completed the teacher certification exams required for her internships and continues to excel in her program.

“Without his support, it would not have been easy to take my current classes or prepare for my internship next semester,” she said.

The Choi family lives in �鶹��Ƶvale on �鶹��Ƶ’s Fairfax Campus, where they embrace the vibrant local community. They enjoy long walks to Old Town Fairfax—often stopping by the Fairfax Regional Library or treating themselves at De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches when they don’t feel like cooking. On campus, they frequent Southside and Ike’s, and Choi keeps an eye on �鶹��Ƶ360 for fun family-friendly events.

“Being part of the George �鶹��Ƶ community as both a student and a mom has been a meaningful journey,” Choi shared. “I hope my story encourages other students who are also balancing school and family life.”

Her advice for fellow students balancing family and school is:

Take Care of Your Health: “Parenting is a whole new world. No matter how much support you have, it takes energy. I used to stay up finishing work all night and start work early in the morning, and that was my joy. But I can’t do that anymore I’ve learned to take care of my body and rest when I can. This season of life is different, but it’s precious and full of gratitude.”

Share the Responsibilities: “Parenting is not a solo journey. My husband’s and family’s support has made it possible for me to continue my studies. I also try to respect my husband’s personal time, like going to the gym or seeing friends. It helps us both.”

Use the System: “In my case, my husband was able to take one year of paid parental leave, which made this balance possible. In Korea, parents can usually take one year of paid leave plus up to two additional years of unpaid leave. Because this system was so familiar to me, I didn’t fully realize how meaningful it was. However, after talking with Colleen Vesely, my Engaging Families of Diverse Learners professor, I truly came to appreciate not only the existence of this system but also the supportive environment that allows us to use it.”

Find a Supportive Community: “I truly appreciate the welcoming community at George �鶹��Ƶ. My professors and classmates have supported me during pregnancy, childbirth, and this parenting season. Special thanks to Professor Bweikia Steen for creating a warm and inclusive class, to Professor Carly Fisher-Maltese for her kindness during my delivery time, and to my friend Jialin for her care before and after birth. Last but not least, thank you to my academic advisor, Kayla Turner, and internship coordinator, Amanda Davis, for constantly checking on me and handling my situations. Families of the Korean Embassy and friends from the diplomatic community have also been so kind. They brought food, took me on little trips to Baltimore, and even bought my favorite bingsoo from Soricha Tea and Theater. I’ve truly felt cared for.”

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College of Education and Human Development

University Life

Students

Confidence meets opportunity at Fall 2025 Career Fair

Katarina Benson — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 20:56:29 +0000

Confidence meets opportunity at Fall 2025 Career Fair Katarina Benson Thu, 10/23/2025 - 16:56

Over the three days of this fall’s Career Fair, more than 5,000 �鶹��Ƶ students filled Dewberry Hall in sharp professional attire and with polished résumés in hand—ready to take the next step toward their careers.

George �鶹��Ƶ’s Career Fair, held each fall and spring semester, is the university’s largest on-campus recruiting event, connecting students with representatives from more than 100 companies and organizations. The event offers students opportunities to explore internships, part-time roles, and full-time positions across a range of industries.

Wilkerson and fellow staff members at the career fair. Photo by Emily Campos/University Life

“These are opportunities to get right in front of the employers,” said Phillip Wilkerson, employer engagement consultant at University Career Services (UCS). “I like to tell students this is not a place where you can automatically get a job or a magic ticket; it’s a great way to build relationships, get business cards, and stay in touch.”

While the fair is about connections, success begins long before students step into Dewberry Hall. University Career Services offers one-on-one advising to help students refine résumés, craft cover letters, and practice introductions before the career fair.

“Confidence comes with preparation,” Wilkerson said. “The more prepared you are, the more confident you are.”

A students converses with an employer. Photo by Emily Campos/University Life

Mary Claire Kraft, employer outreach manager for University Career Services, recommended that students research before the fair to be even more prepared. “Number one, check Handshake, George �鶹��Ƶ’s job search web site,” she said. “When students meet an employer they’re interested in, they can then share one thing they already know about them.”

Each day of the fair is focused on a different area or industry. Day one was focused on science, technology, engineering and health; day two was a general day for all companies; and day three was mainly attended by business, government, education and nonprofit organizations.

Iman Chaudhry, a sophomore majoring in management information systems, approached the fair with an open mindset, something she credits with helping her make the most of the fair. “I think it’s important not to limit yourself, even if you have a specific major,” she said. “There are benefits to attending all days of the Career Fair.”

First-year student Lilliana Russell attended her first fair this fall eager to learn. The civil and infrastructure engineering major arrived early with a list of employers to meet and a curiosity about what her field has to offer. “I’m really just trying to scope out what the different companies in my field are and maybe score an internship,” she said.

Students meet with potential employers. Photo by Emily Campos/University Life

Russell added that her nerves faded once she began speaking with recruiters. “Once I got to know everyone and saw how excited they were to talk with students, I let go of any preconceived notions I had about the event,” she said.

University Career Services hosts a wide variety of career fairs throughout the year. Students can keep the momentum going a Clearance Ready event on October 28 at noon. Engineering Careers Week kicks off November 10. Learn more about these and other career opportunities.

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