Student Profile: Desitny Jackon
Desitny Jackon is pursuing a degree in architecture while working for Pentecost Deal and Associates from home. This active 20-year-old is the president of the Black Student Alliance for the 2008-09 school year. While working towards graduation in 2011, Jackson also participates in the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students (NOMAS) on campus.
In her own words:
Why did you choose to attend Virginia Tech?
Virginia Tech had the number one undergraduate architecture program, and when I visited, I enjoyed the feeling of home and family.
What is your favorite thing about going to Virginia Tech?
My favorite thing is the different kinds of people I’ve met here that I would not have met being at home.
How would you describe your Virginia Tech experience thus far?
I have learned a lot about myself, such as what I’m capable of doing. Participating in different organizations has helped me realize my potential.
What are your plans once you graduate?
I want to attend graduate school and study historical preservation or fashion design in New York, but I will probably go straight into the job force.
Why did you choose to major in architecture?
I always had a passion for structures, buildings, and houses in particular. Dad was a realtor and would take me with him to open houses, which got me interested in the field.
What do you hope to gain from this field?
I will have a good sense of design and discipline, and I’ll be able to relate that to other things I want to do.
How do you balance extracurricular activities with school work?
I am good at time management and do what I can ahead of time. It’s not easy, but everything seems to get done. I go day by day with a to-do list.
How has your involvement with campus activities contributed to your overall college experience?
I have been able to meet faculty and other administrators around campus, outside of the classroom. I have also met lifelong friends through organizations I am involved in.
What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about your work or volunteering?
I enjoy seeing underclassmen find an organization they can go to and feel welcomed at and then seeing them open up.
What has been your biggest challenge at Virginia Tech so far?
I struggled with changing my major to fashion design, so the first few years I didn’t think architecture was where I wanted to be. Over the past year though, my professors have helped me realize that I can incorporate both of my passions into my chosen major.
What advice can you offer first-year students?
Try to get involved with or at least go out to as many organizational events as you can. Find and associate with the people you share a common interest. Build relationships that will enhance the rest of your college experiences and time at Virginia Tech.