Student Life

Anthony Fauth, a freshman majoring in mathematics in the College of Science, says he knew as a child that he wanted to attend Virginia Tech. The 18-year-old native of Chesterfield, Va., is very active on campus. He is a brother of Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity (ZBT), and he participates in intramural sports including flag football and basketball.

Fauth, who graduated from Manchester High School, has two uncles and an aunt that graduated from Virginia Tech. He says he feels that attending Virginia Tech is allowing him to carry on a family legacy and he is proud to be a Hokie.

In his own words:

Why did you choose the major that you chose?

I chose math because I really enjoy the problem-solving skills it takes to accomplish something. 

What do you want to do after college?

I’m not sure of my plans after college, but I am leaning toward teaching at the secondary school or college level.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in?

I played basketball and flag football intramurals last fall.

Of what achievement are you most proud?

I am most proud of making it to Virginia Tech.  I’ve always wanted to go to school here, and was unsure if my abilities would allow me to attend.  However, I’m here now!

What has been your greatest challenge as a student?

My greatest challenge since I was five years old has been juggling the divorce of my parents and going to school. I’ve had to work harder than many people because I went back and forth, and from parent to parent. Doing this, I still had to manage to get all of my work done, and make it into college.

How did you deal with that challenge?

I just managed to get my work done before I switched from one parent to the other.  I made sure I got things done a little ahead of time. My extended family supported me a lot too, and that helped me through many rough times.

How would you describe your Virginia Tech experience thus far?

I absolutely love it, and I would not change it at all. I have joined a fraternity since coming to school and it has been a great experience. I really enjoy meeting new people every day while retaining the same group of friends I had when I started school.

What are some of your favorite things about Blacksburg?

I really like the campus because it is beautiful when the seasons change. I love the snow because where I am from it does not snow as much. I really love the people here, too.  There are so many different personalities and cultures. It is a whole different experience and it could not get any better.

What advice can you offer incoming freshmen?

The main thing is to work first, and have fun later. When you put having fun first, it’s asking for real trouble. There is always time for the fun, but the work must get done to make it here