Name: Brian Benzel
Year: 4th
Hometown: Medford, NJ
Major: Economics and Religious Studies

Did you visit UVA before deciding to attend?

Yes, my older sister graduated from the University a few years ago, and I visited her when she was a student. I also went on the student led walking tour of Grounds when I was in high school. Coming to visit my sister truly made me want to come to UVA. I really enjoyed staying with her and seeing the vibrant student life that I wasn’t able to see on the admissions tour. I believe that every student should visit the University during the school year and see what it is actually like to be a student when classes are in session.

What has been your favorite class?

One of the best classes that I have taken here at UVA was during my first year when I was in the School of Engineering. The title of the class was ENGR162, better known as Introduction to Engineering, taught by Doc. Fitzgerald. This was a class of about 20 students and we were given a $600 budget with which we could do what we wanted. As a class, we decided that we would design and build a structure that would aid in handicapped accessibility around Grounds. The class was divided into teams and each team designed a concept.  Once we knew what we wanted to build, we then broke off into smaller specialized groups and began to build our prototype.  Each group managed a different aspect of the project.  A management group was in charge of finances and deadlines; a structural group took the lead in building the structure.  There was also a kinetics group and a safety group.  By then end of the class we had in front of us what months of problem solving, designing, and team-work had created. It was just a great experience to have a hands-on, team-centered environment in my very first semester.

What activities are you involved in?

I am involved in several groups on Grounds. As a first year, I became a member of the University Guide Service which is a volunteer organization dedicated to providing historical and admissions tours to the general public. Also, in the spring of my first year I decided to rush and join one of the many different fraternities around Grounds. Over the past couple of years I have become very involved in my fraternity.  I have been a member of the executive board and am currently treasurer. In the beginning of my second year I began to volunteer in the Big Brother/Little Brother program through Madison House. Madison House is the University's largest volunteer organization, and I really cherish the time I have spent getting to know my Little Brother.  One of my favorite activities around Grounds is participating in intramural sports. I have competed in almost every sport that the University has to offer: basketball, volleyball, soccer, etc.

Have you taken the time to get academic and career advice while a student?

The University offers many different advising opportunities for all students, and I have taken advantage of most of them. As a rising fourth year, finding a job is a priority, and the University Career Services (UCS) is a great, free resource for students. I have been to their office a number of times, and they have helped me to build my resume, figure out what the best career path is for me, and have helped me to greatly improve my interviewing skills. UCS works intimately with students and companies, thus allowing student to have easy access to internships, externships, and future job placement. A unique feature of UCS is that major companies looking for new employees will come to the University and do on-site interviews. It is very comforting to know that there are thousands of companies that are interested in UVA graduates

Who are you most excited to see at the new John Paul Jones arena?

With so many amazing shows coming to the John Paul Jones Arena this school year, it is hard to pick the one show that I am most excited about. I already have tickets to Dave Matthews and Kenny Chesney, but it great to have the opportunity to see so many other great performers (James Taylor, Eric Clapton, Brad Paisley, etc). WWE wrestling and Cirque Du Soleil were here recently, and they were amazing. However, even though all of these shows are coming, I think I am most excited about the upcoming basketball season. The new arena holds 16,000 people, and it an unbelievable sight. The basketball team is has done a great job in recruiting amazing athletes, and I can’t wait to see UVA playing on the new court against great ACC rivals like UNC, Duke, and Maryland.