Hokie Blindside

Today was an interesting day, to say the least. It was the first time in a few weeks in which the professional staff had the opportunity to branch out and take some much-needed time off from work. Needless to say, Jenny and I ventured out and spent some time together... for good or for worse.

In the afternoon, we decided to go to Target on Move-In weekend. It is like we were amateurs at this whole "moving to college" thing. Luckily, we found a parking spot or two and continued our journey to stock up on some necessities. You know you have been cooped up when you are excited to purchase a new toothbrush.

Once we got back, we planned to meet in 30 minutes to attend this Hokie Hi Picnic thing. Apparently, it is a big thing at Virginia Tech to attend this picnic. All of the dining halls close during this time to prep for the students, staff, friends, and families who attend this event. Strategically, we came an hour after it started to ensure there was no line for the food. When Jenny and I arrived, we were confused upon the entrance to this little shindig. There was a split entrance with band members going to the left and what appeared to be the general public going to the right. Luckily for us, this fine volunteer pointed us in the direction of the band...

Continuing down the walkway, we were greeted by about 10 other volunteers. They were super pumped about giving some hi-fives. Jenny and I were super confused. As we continued down the tunnel, we began to realize we were the only ones who were heading into the football player entrance to Lane Stadium. And we were surrounded by about 50 people waiting to cheer us on. Where was everyone else?!

Let me tell you... they were happily sitting in their seats watching this fiasco unfold. Apparently, we were corralled into the entrance for first-year students who wanted to rush the field. We looked less-than-thrilled. It wasn't until we got our food and our seats that we realized there was another entrance and that we were the only individuals within the past 30 minutes to make an entrance. And we also realized that this was truly not a picnic... #HokieFail

This image is to represent our entrance into Lane Stadium. McKayla is not impressed...

Why I RLC

The Peddrew-Yates area at Virginia Tech has organized a blog to allow individuals the opportunity to share their stories. This is why I am where I am today. Thanks to all who made a difference. :)

Hello, all!

My name is Scott Busiel, and I am one of two Residential Learning Coordinators (RLC) in Pritchard Hall this year. I'm excited to join the Hokie Family as this is my first year within the role. Recently, I obtained my Masters of Science in Educational Leadership from Oklahoma State University... Go Pokes!

I didn't expect to end up where I currently am. I began my education planning on being a marine biologist. And no, I did not want to be a dolphin trainer with the degree. That is a common misconception of marine biology majors, as many individuals don't end up working with marine mammals. I will save that story for another time. I did end up where I am due to my role as the Night Director for a marine biology summer camp. While I got the chance to teach about the sciences, it was the interpersonal relationships I built with the students in the camp that allowed me to reflect on who I was meant to be. I worked with students through familial issues, mental health issues, and served as the confidant they needed. It changed my life, and I realized I was able to change theirs.

From this point on, I knew I wanted to work with students and serve as their teacher, their mentor, and their support. I am passionate about helping individuals reach their potential, even if they don't realize it in the present tense. Even with the long days, longer nights, and countless hours of helping others, I could not imagine doing anything else. That is why I RLC.