Student Life

Alexandra Lamay is a junior majoring in biology, with chemistry and business minors. Despite a heavy course load, Lamay is also heavily involved in a variety of different activities both on and off campus.

Lamay also participates in undergraduate research in the Department of Biochemistry. She devotes much of her time to others—she volunteers at the Giles County Animal Shelter, the Free Clinic of the New River Valley in Christiansburg, and the Sunrise Senior Assisted Living facility. As academics chair and hospitality chair for the Delta Zeta sorority, Lamay is also very involved in the campus community.

Since coming to Virginia Tech, Lamay has been on the Dean’s List numerous times, in the University Honors Program, and ranked in Delta Zeta’s Top Ten Grade Point Averages. Outside of school, she says she enjoys volunteering, having fun with friends, working out, going to the beach, cooking, and traveling.

In her own words:

How did you choose the major that you chose?

I’ve always been interested in the sciences, and of all the concentrations, but I found biology the most appealing. It was something I would want to continue to be involved with as part of my career. Through volunteering at clinics and the animal shelter, I have found biology to be the most rewarding major. I’m also interested in medicine, as well as helping people and animals.

What do you have to do to balance all of your activities?

I have to make sure I am organized at all times. I always prioritize my activities. One thing I have learned about college is that free time is just as important as work. Finding what I enjoy also makes accomplishing all my activities easier.

What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about your work (with animals)? and volunteering?

What I find most rewarding about volunteering is the unsaid expression of gratitude. Whether I’m working with a person or a dog or cat, I know I am helping in whatever way I can. I am grateful for what I have and for the time I have.  I think this is one of the best ways I can spend my time and show my gratitude to the community. 

Of what accomplishment are you most proud?

I am very proud of becoming the Delta Zeta Academic Chair. Thus far, I have initiated a mentor program that pairs new members with older sisters based on major and career interests. The goal is for older sisters to help the newer members with classes, study habits, and their personal academic goals. I think the program has been rewarding for all sisters involved, and I hope it will continue in the future.

What has been your biggest challenge at Virginia Tech so far?

My biggest challenge at Virginia Tech has been to understand and figure out where I am going in life and how I will get myself there. I have had to find how to balance having fun in college yet also find my path at the same time, so that when I face the challenge of leaving Virginia Tech, I will know where I want to go.

How has your involvement with the Greek community contributed to your overall college experience?

Delta Zeta has undoubtedly made my time at Virginia Tech an amazing experience. My sisters have been there for me when I have gone through hard times, and they have been my home away from home. They have also opened my eyes to all the activities Virginia Tech has to offer, both on campus and off. I have definitely become more involved thanks to Delta Zeta, and I am thankful everyday I joined such a great sisterhood. I have never had a sister until I joined Delta Zeta, and now I do not know how I would have made it this far without them.

What’s your favorite thing about going to school at Virginia Tech?

I don’t think I can choose one favorite thing. Football season is always at the top of the list, as well as a great academic community. I think the science programs at Virginia Tech are outstanding. The Greek community has also made my enjoyment above what I ever expected out of college. Sometimes I think the Greek community as a whole is misunderstood.  Fraternities and sororities are very involved on campus, and as chapters, we do community service and philanthropies for many different charities, on an almost weekly basis. I know I have been more involved and have volunteered more as a Greek woman than I would have if I have not joined Delta Zeta. 

What advice can you offer to incoming freshman?

I would definitely recommend experiencing as many things as you can (within reason). Take a class that sounds interesting to you, regardless of what requirement to graduate it fulfills. If a club sounds fun, but it isn’t in your major, join it. You never know, it could be something you will end up loving and want to change your major or make it a career ambition. I know from personal experience.  I am thankful to have been involved in many things because I now know what works for me and what doesn’t. It’s better to learn earlier than later. Also, have fun! And never miss a home game.