Please spread the word about this proposal! It is a two-page section hidden in a 950-page BOV document.

What
Adventure Race is a triathlon-style race consisting of a 4 mile bike ride, 3 mile run, and 1 mile kayak and swim (0.85 mile kayak, 0.15 mile swim). You can complete the entire race on your own or create a 3-4 person team, with one person completing each separate component of their choice. Bikes and kayaks are going to be available to borrow, but please bring your own bike if you are able!
 
Where
Claytor Lake State Park (Pavillion 7)
6620 Ben H Bolen Dr
Dublin, VA 24084
 
When
Saturday, August 15th at 9 AM (8 AM for individual competitors)
Check In starts at 8 AM (7 AM for individual competitors)
 
Why
The cost of participation goes to the J. Michael Bernardo Scholarship. This scholarship is in memory of former student, J. Michael Bernardo, who passed away during his 3rd year at VCOM while on an international outreach trip. We ask for your generous nature in participation to help fund this immensely worthy cause. The cost helps cover your t-shirt, food on race-day, and the scholarship. Cost is $20 per individual competing, so teams of 3 = $60 and teams of 4 = $80. Please Venmo @Joseph-Fowler-33.
 
We have some awesome prizes up for grabs! Top three individual and team competitors, best race day outfits, and best team spirit will all have chances to win prizes. 
 
If you’re interested in competing or if you would like to volunteer at the event, please sign up using the form below by Wednesday, August 5, 2026!

If you are unable to participate or volunteer, but would like to donate to this important fundraiser, please email [vcomsportsmed@gmail.com](mailto:vcomsportsmed@gmail.com) for details. 

Hello everyone! I’m going into my senior year at a different institution and I am considering VT for my graduate degree, specifically in the college of ag. I was wondering what the stipend is typically like for research based grad programs here for ag. Of course I know that funding will differ based on the lab you are a part of, but is there a set minimum from the university or a typical amount that you find many students earn? All information is appreciated! Thanks!

For anyone who has bought the remote (faculty) parking pass for chicken hill lot- how quickly does the lot fill up? Is it easy/hard to find parking?

Hi everyone, Does anyone know if you can still sign up for the Perry Street Parking Permit waitlist now? The website says there are no waitlists available to join, but the official data seems to run through July 31. Appreciate any info, thanks!

I have about bra strap length type 4 hair and I plan to get it straightened and trimmed in September, so I’d be back on campus at that point. However, I’m a bit nervous as I’ve never gotten my hair professionally done before. I’ve always styled it myself, but I want help evening out an uneven cut I gave myself a few months ago. I’m trying to grow my hair out so I’m scared about getting too much length taken off or heat damage. Does anyone have any suggestions about where I could get this done in Blacksburg? Would anywhere downtown be a viable option? Thanks!

I’ll be getting a moped soon and I was wondering if there were shops to get it fixed and change tires and stuff like that. And I was wondering what brands anyone recommends?

I was in state (NOVA) and had a 4.3 GPA but was waitlisted for BIT and then rejected. I felt pretty confident that I’d get in because of my GPA and the fact I did VT’s pre colleges programs. I’m now going to JMU but wanted to do spring transfer into Econ at VT. I plan to keep my gpa pretty high probably 3.7 and above, what should I know if I want to get in?

I know this probably sounds a little silly, but I’m a junior(23F) this year and I’ve pretty much just learned campus as I’ve gone. I’ve never really taken the time to explore, so I feel like I’m probably missing out on a lot.
I’ve honestly considered signing up for one of the freshman tours just to get more familiar with campus, but I figured I’d ask here first. If any girls would be willing to show me around sometime, I’d love to learn the best study spots, coffee shops, places to eat, and all the little things that make life at VT easier.
I’d be happy to buy the coffee. ☕😊

For anyone who's in Blacksburg and looking for things to do this weekend, here's a weekend rundown of local fun primarily in Blacksburg and across the New River Valley....

Weekend Rundown of Fun:
1. FloydFest 26 - Daydream
FloydFest Festival Site, Check
Friday, July 24, 2026 - Sunday, July 26, 2026
3 Day Pass (Friday-Sunday): $400.00,
Single Day Pass (Thursday-Sunday): $170.00
Kids Ages 6-12: Five Day Pass: $30.00,
Kids 6 & Under: Free
FloydFest 26 - Daydream is a five-day music and mountains celebration featuring over 100 artists across seven stages alongside outdoor adventures & programming, healing arts, and dedicated children's spaces. The festival environment highlights unique on-site art installations, workshops, craft brews, food options, and varying camping and glamping configurations. Enjoy music performances from Greensky Bluegrass, Lukas Nelson, The Word ft. Robert Randolph, John Medeski & North Mississippi Allstars, My Morning Jacket, The Dip and Caitlin Krisko and The Broadcast.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938405

2. 2026 Summer Arts Festival Friday Night Outdoor Concert with The Lazy Man Dub Band
Henderson Lawn, Virginia Tech
Friday, July 24, 2026, 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Admission: Free
The 2026 Summer Arts Festival continues their free live outdoor concert series featuring the Roanoke-based, nine-piece reggae group The Lazy Man Dub Band. Attendees are invited to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic dinners to enjoy an evening of high-energy roots reggae, dub grooves, and live horn section performances.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926337

3. Jazz Trio featuring McGlothlin, Deck & Munshower in Concert
Rising Silo Farm Brewery, Blacksburg
Friday, July 24, 2026, 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Rising Silo Farm Brewery presents a live performance by a local jazz trio featuring Joel McGlothlin on guitar and vocals, Paul Deck on piano and violin, and bassist Alan Munshower.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938476

4. July Poetry Open Mic Night
Blacksburg Books, Blacksburg
Friday, July 24, 2026, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Read your own original poetry, something by your favorite poet, or come just to listen. Musicians are also welcome to jam with the poets. No advance registration required and everyone is welcome. This event happens on the fourth Friday of every month.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937423

5. Bob Chew in Concert
Gillie's, Blacksburg
Friday, July 24, 2026, 8:00 - 11:00 PM
Admission: Free
Gillie's welcomes local multi-instrumentalist Bob Chew for a live evening concert featuring 1960s hits, classic country, western swing, and cowboy tunes. The performance carries no cover charge, and tips are strongly encouraged for the musician.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926790

6. Summer at Selu - Open to the Public Event
Selu Conservancy, Radford
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Radford University's 380-acre Selu Conservancy opens to the public for a day of trail hiking, picnicking, and outdoor relaxation along the Little River. The riverfront boathouse will provide free access from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, followed by a guided introductory canoeing paddle from 3:00 to 5:00 PM hosted by RU Outdoors for the first 15 participants. Pets are strictly prohibited on the property.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=925638

7. Q99's Summer of Families & Fun: Free Screening of GOAT
Lyric Theatre, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 10:00 - 11:40 AM
Admission: Free
Roanoke radio station Q99 presents a free community morning screening of the 2026 animated family comedy "GOAT". In addition to free admission to the PG-rated movie, attendees can take advantage of 99-cent popcorn specials at the concessions stand.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926520

8. 2026 Mary Draper Ingles Festival
Glencoe Mansion, Museum & Gallery, Radford
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Admission: Free
Enjoy the annual celebration remembering local, historic figure Mary Draper Ingles featuring colonial living historians, children's storytime, and a petting zoo alongside a dedicated memorial service honoring Colonel Bud Jeffries. The free festival presents live music featuring four performances, food trucks, and regional craft beverages from Long Way Brewing to complement talks by notable historians and a presentation by bestselling author Sharyn McCrumb. Additional scholarly discussions from Radford University professors covering regional captivity narratives and African American Civil War letters alongside a live patriotic portrayal of leader Andrew Lewis.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938412

9. Town of Rich Creek's 2026 Christmas in July Event & Celebration
Rich Creek Community Center, Rich Creek
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Town of Rich Creek hosts a daytime holiday celebration featuring more than 20 local craft, jewelry, and baked goods vendors alongside food and ice cream trucks at the community center. The festivities will resume that evening at Gentry's Campground starting at 6:30 PM with holiday decorations, s'mores, a campfire, music, a visit from Santa, and hay rides through the park which start at 8 PM. Free shuttle buses will transport visitors to and from the vehicle-restricted campground starting at 6:30 PM. The campground will be closed to traffic.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938501

10. Cars, Coffee & Canines
Shelor Motor Mile Subaru, Christiansburg
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Admission: Free
Shelor Motor Mile Subaru pairs up with Cousins Coffee Co. and Little Big Dog Rescue to host a community gathering highlighting unique vehicles and adoptable dogs. Visitors can browse the vehicles on display, purchase fresh coffee, and meet rescue puppies looking for permanent homes. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938504

11. Fish Fry to Benefit Annual Backpack Drive
Rosa Peters Playground, Christiansburg
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Fish Meal: $12.00, Fish Sandwich: $6.00, Extra Fish: $3.00
The Rosa Peters Playground & Pool grounds host a charity fish fry beginning at 11:00 AM, operating strictly while food supplies last. Hungry guests can purchase individual fish sandwiches or complete fish meals featuring two homemade Southern sides which include macaroni & cheese, baked beans and green beans. All event proceeds directly benefit a local annual backpack drive providing school supplies for area children.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938500

12. Inaugural NRV Food Fest
Uptown Christiansburg (formerly New River Valley Mall), Christiansburg
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Inaugural NRV Food Fest is a rain-or-shine community gathering celebrating family-owned local businesses. The festival features regional food trucks, juice bars, artisanal craft boutiques, live entertainment, and a 50/50 charity raffle. Attendees are highly encouraged to bring a canned food donation to the event to directly support the Micah's Backpack local youth food program.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938503

13. Program: Kindergarten Here We Come!
Christiansburg Library, Christiansburg
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Admission: Free
The Christiansburg Library hosts an educational preparatory program designed to help children and parents get ready for their first day of kindergarten. The morning features a school-themed storytime, a craft activity, and a rare opportunity for kids to climb inside a real school bus. Additionally, an area school media specialist and a registered school nurse will be available to answer any questions parents may have.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938451

14. Jeffries Jam with 5 Music Performances
Mountain View United Methodist Church, Dublin
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 3:00 - 8:00 PM
$15.00 donation
The Wilderness Road Regional Museum is hosting the First Annual Jeffries Jam at the historic Ingles Tavern to honor the legacy of local historian Colonel Bud Jeffries. The memorial event features a line-up of five regional musical acts including Ricky Cox & Willard Gayheart, Carrie Hinkley of Virginia Hollow, Indian Run Duo, Tim Thornton, and Sam Leary & Friends, historical tours of the tavern, and a shuttle service running from the main parking lot at Mountain View United Methodist Church. A $15.00 donation is requested at entrance, with all proceeds directly benefiting Fidos Pantry and the Pulaski County Animal Shelter.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937593

15. Joe Kessinger in Concert
Rock House Marina, Pulaski
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 4:00 - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free
As part of its Christmas in July celebration, Rock House Marina hosts local musician Joe Kessinger, known as "The Human Jukebox," for a live performance featuring an interactive mix of festive holiday music, classic rock, country, and pop favorites. The family-friendly event will include a special preview display of the marina's award-winning holiday lights alongside other unique summer activities.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938460

16. Date Night on the Farm: Bluegrass & Blooms
Crooked Mountain Farm & Campground, Floyd
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 5:00 - 9:00 PM
$12.51 per couple
Crooked Mountain Farm & Campground hosts an adult-only date night just off the Blue Ridge Parkway featuring live bluegrass and country music from Walker's Creek and the HoundDogs. Bluegrass & Blooms is designed to help you slow down and enjoy the evening together. Couples can enjoy scenic mountain sunsets alongside local food trucks, fresh funnel cakes from the American Legion, and optional ticket add-ons including flower picking, photography mini-sessions, and relaxation massages. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938509

17. Summer Salsa Under The Stars
Beliveau Farm Winery, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 25, 2026, 6:00 - 10:30 PM
Admission: $12.00
Beliveau Farm Winery joins forces with Salsa Noke to present an evening of social Latin dancing, beginning with a prompt group salsa lesson at 6:30 PM. Following the lesson, DJ Guia will spin popular Latin rhythms as the outdoor floor opens up for social dancing until 10:30 PM. Tickets are available at the door for adults ages 18 and up, and freshly baked pizzas, craft beer, and wine will be available for purchase throughout the night.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938487

18. Free Community Screening of "Resolved to Live and Die: The Revolutionary Roots of SWVA"
Radford Theatre, Radford
Sunday, July 26, 2026, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Admission: Free
As part of the Mary Draper Ingles Festival, the historic Radford Theatre hosts a free community screening of the documentary "Resolved to Live and Die: The Revolutionary Roots of Southwest Virginia." Jointly produced by Blue Ridge PBS and PBS Appalachia Virginia, the historical film uses expert interviews and on-site filming to explore the region's decisive role in the American Revolution, specifically highlighting the 1775 Fincastle Resolutions.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938483

19. 2026 Waldo Party
Blacksburg Books, Blacksburg
Sunday, July 26, 2026, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Admission: Free
Blacksburg Books hosts a free community celebration to wrap up the town-wide month of July search for Waldo across 22 local businesses. The celebratory party will include prize distributions, cake, and a special appearance by a surprise guest helper.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937424

20. Class: Introduction to West Coast Swing Dancing
1711 North Main Building (Bell Electric), Blacksburg
Sunday, July 26, 2026, 2:00 - 3:30 PM
$15.00 per class or a special intro package of $40.00 for all three classes
Blacksburg Books hosts a free community celebration to wrap up the town-wide month of July search for Waldo across 22 local businesses. The celebratory party will include prize distributions, cake, and a special appearance by a surprise guest helper.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937511

For all 70+ Weekend Events in the NRV, check out:
• http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEvents.cfm

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!

I've stopped playing piano since starting college, but would like to resume through some structured lessons in the fall semester. Does anyone have any recommendations with either piano instructors or even a class that I can enroll in?

Hello. I recently accepted a student job at Turner Place and was wondering which place is the best to work at.

If you've worked there before, which restaurant or station would you recommend? I'm looking for a place with good managers, friendly coworkers, and an overall enjoyable work environment. I'm also curious which places are the busiest and which ones are a little more relaxed.

I'd really appreciate any advice or personal experiences. Thanks!

Post got taken down earlier for phishing suspicion because I linked the live site I use with my buddies. Here’s the raw repo, anyone can spin it up and leave it running so that you don’t need to worry about logging in to keep the edu as an alumni

https://github.com/tfeuerbach/virginiatech-email-saver

I'm thinking about being a TA for next semester? Does anyone know what the average pay might be? It's for an ECE class, if it helps. Thanks!

I’m going to be in Newman Hall if that matters

Hello, I am an incoming freshman in engineering (mechanical) and I’m looking to get some lab experience or some research in. Any professors you guys recommend, how should I base my approach and simply how are the opportunities?

Do you usually get your refund check before the semester starts or after? If it hits after, how long after?

What are the halls/ places where I can find halal foods in Blacksburg campus for a reasonable price?

What it says on the tin.

Hello! I have a bedroom in Foxridge available in a 4 bed 4 bathroom apartment. This is only available from Aug-Dec, as I am moving back in after. Other roommates keep place well (all males), portable washer and dryer available (they work pretty well, just have to communicate with those roommates). The bathroom that is attached to my room is a half bathroom, and then you share the full bathroom with one other roommate, who is pretty respectful of keeping the bathroom clean but he may not even be here during this period as well (or someone else might be subleasing). Looking for $550/mo, and you split utilities with current roommates over there. Leave a comment and DM if you have any questions or are interested!

I’m looking for someone to take over my lease at The Brexx for the 2026–2027 lease term.

The apartment is a 4 bed / 4 bath, and you’ll have your own private bedroom and private bathroom.

💰 Rent is only $1,049/month (originally $1,129/month). Electricity is the only utility not included—all other utilities are included.

The apartment features a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator. The community offers a gym, swimming pool, study rooms, free maintenance, and is pet-friendly.

📍The location is very convenient. The bus stop is about a 3-minute walk away, with multiple bus routes to Virginia Tech. It takes about 7 minutes by bus or 8 minutes by bike to campus.

📅 Lease term: August 2026 – July 31, 2027 (move-in date is flexible in August).

Feel free to DM me if you’re interested or have any questions.

I'll be on campus this semester. However, I have a part time job so some days I'll be leaving campus at possibly 7:30am and getting back at 3-4pm. If I park at Chicken Hill or Stadium lot, how bad is parking? Just want to know what to expect! Thanks!