The Shadow
LOW MOOR — Alleghany High School’s Sophia Mundy was one of 26 high school
seniors from across the United States who attended a unique experiential learning
program at Virginia Tech this summer.
Mundy participated in the Pamplin College of Business’ third annual Inspiring
Possibilities Academy, commonly known as PIP. The 10-day learning program was held
in July on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg. It was designed to introduce
prospective students to aspects of business and business careers.
Mundy, 17, plans to apply for early admission to Virginia Tech. She aspires to pursue a
career in accounting or marketing. Approximately 200 students applied for admission to
Pamplin’s Inspiring Possibilities Academy. Applicants were required to write an essay
and the selection process was also based on academic performance.
“I think I am the only person from the greater Roanoke area who applied and was
chosen to attend. There was one student from Los Angeles. I believe two students were
from North Carolina. Everyone else was from Northern Virginia. It was a pretty diverse
group of students,” she said.
The academy featured over 30 workshops facilitated by Virginia Tech faculty, staff, and
Pamplin’s Advisory Council. The students were provided immersive case studies and
hands-on scenarios that helped equip them with a deeper understanding of business
concepts, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving skills.
The workshops focused on seven areas of business: accounting and information
systems, business information technology, finance, hospitality and tourism
management, management, marketing, and real estate.
“The PIP Academy embodies Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) by integrating Pamplin’s
educational programs with hands-on workshops across business disciplines,” said
Michelle Seref, Pamplin’s associate dean for undergraduate programs. “Through
collaborative projects and engagement with faculty, staff, and alumni, students gain
practical skills in problem-solving, leadership, and communication.”
“Additionally, the program enhances the Virginia Tech Advantage by actively recruiting
and supporting students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring accessibility to educational
opportunities that empower them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and
beyond,” Seref said.
Mundy has always been strong in the subject of math. Her interest in business was
sparked by her father, who became a business consultant after serving in the U.S.
military. Accounting will likely be her field of interest.
“When I had to start thinking about college during my junior year, I didn’t know what I
wanted to do, so my dad just suggested business. Earlier this year, when I saw the
Virginia Tech program, I became more interested in business. I found out I liked
business when I got into the program and learned more about it,” Mundy said.
Employment of accountants over the next decade is expected to exceed most
occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. About 130,800 openings
for accountants and auditors are projected each year through 2033. The median annual
wage for accountants and auditors was $79,880 in May 2023.
Mundy resides in Covington. She will graduate from Alleghany High School next spring.
At AHS, she is a member of the National Honor Society, the Beta Club, and the Key
Club. She is co-vice president of the Beta Club. The three student organizations
encourage leadership by serving others.
“I started thinking about Virginia Tech in March when I first toured the campus. I knew it
was a big school. Initially, I thought I would attend college at a smaller school. But I
found out that I like a bigger school. It seemed intimidating, at first, but when I got there,
it seemed smaller,” she said.
“We are so very proud of our students who take advantage of special opportunities like
this one to pursue their interests,” said Kim Halterman and Melinda Snead-Johnson,
leaders of AHPS. “These programs are great ways for young people to meet people
from around the country as well.”
With approximately 2,700 students, AHPS was created when Alleghany County Public
Schools, Covington City Public Schools, and Jackson River Technical Center merged in
July 2022. The school division is jointly funded by Alleghany County and the City of
Covington.
AHPS news and events are regularly updated on Facebook at AHPublicSchools and
Instagram at ahpublicschools. Information is also available at www.ahps.k12.va.us.
