My anniversary is so close to christmas so my bf and i have a tradition where we get whatever for christmas but only give local gifts for our anniversary, can I get some recommendations on local stores to buy fun gifts from! Or even a local activity would work too

I'm from Maryland, and left my house for VT at 8:30 am on Saturday, 11/30. Taking I-81 gives an estimated trip duration of exactly 4 hours without traffic. About an hour after entering I-81 via I-66, I was notified of an accident, and heavy traffic starts (sound familiar?). I decided to exit at Staunton to take a break and weigh other options. I started on state route 42, following 780, 220, and 785 to Blacksburg. Both this route and I-81 would take almost 3 hours, but Google maps severely underestimates trip durations on busy interstates in my experience. The route I took had much more dynamic scenery, with rolling hills and gentle curves through high pastures, deep woods, and mountain peaks in the distance. The route can be seen here.

I hope everyone is doing well. With my SRAR, I realize that it keeps autocapitalizing every course I manually input. Though, the courses on my transcript are not capatilized. I tried retyping my courses like 7 times, and they still appear to be autocapitalized. Would this be a problem? Thanks y'all.

Go Hokies!

I get extremely stressed during exams, which disrupts my work and makes me do a lot more mistakes. Listening to music helps me tons, but in the past I've been told to take them off.

I have an calc 2 exam this Tuesday. Do you think it's worth it to ask the professor if I could wear some beforehand through an email? I get on with the professor well enough. I just dont won't to come across unprofessional.

I know I can set up accommodations through the SSD office (as I've also been diagnosed with anxiety and ADD) but haven't really got around to it.

so when i was at the football game tonight, and they did the senior night stuff, it seemed like a LOT of the seniors are graduating this fall? is there a reason for this? are they all graduating a semester early or a semester late? Also, the announcer listed more than a few of them as “a Fall 2022 graduate in sociology..” or something similar. How did they graduate 2 years ago and still playing? is this their 6th year in college? Are they enrolled in courses just to stay eligible but not gonna earn a grad degree? Why did some of them graduate in 2022 or 2023 and still playing?

Is the girls soccer game on the radio anywhere? (Or a free stream if that exists)

I'm a freshman and I'm studying Computer Engineering. I've always been pretty good at coding and have made some games before, and I chose CompE because I wanted to learn more about hardware and it felt like too many people were doing CS anyway. I've made circuits before and I like it, I find the labs in ECE1004 pretty fun.

I'm still not entirely sure about my choice though. As an engineer I do have to take a lot of physics and math related courses, and I don't particularly enjoy either and am only decent at math and physics. I've also seen somewhere that CompE is more calculus focused and CS is more logic-based? I was thinking more about switching to CS because of it. What are the different jobs that CompE majors could go into that CS can't though? The main thing I thought about was VLSI, but I've heard you need a master's or PhD to really do much in that field.

I was originally driven further away from CS because of the number of people already doing it, and all I heard about the job market being quite bad. So many people just go into CS for the sake of making money too, whereas I actually enjoyed learning about computers and so didn't want to get seen as another "CS guy" (esp. because I'm male and "Asian").

I've made circuits, and I do like the labs where we make those, but I get a bit confused sometimes with the more physics related aspects. I know that CS can be hard too, I've done coding competitions where we have to solve some problem but I can usually figure it out after some frustration and then it feels rewarding. Are the harder parts of learning CS just like that?

How does the work/difficulty of learning CS and CompE compare? And in careers, is it really significantly harder to get a CS job?

Alright this is a big one.

Hi everyone

I’m a sophomore here and a vegetarian. Last year in the dorms, I found myself relying heavily on junk food, and now that I’m in an apartment, things aren’t much better. My current “diet” mostly consists of Fairlife milk, protein bars, and juices/smoothies. Not only is this costing me a lot, but it also doesn’t feel like it’s meeting my nutritional needs.

I really want to eat healthier, but I’m struggling to find good vegetarian options. To be honest, I cannot handle the tofu or tempeh salads on campus – they’re some of the worst meals I’ve ever tried. On the bright side, I do enjoy smoothies, Jamba yogurt bowls, and occasionally the Chipotle vegan meat. I’ve also recently started eating paneer, which I like.

Especially, To all the vegans/vegetarians out there – how do you keep up with your nutritional needs while not spending 1k+ a month on food

Additionally, those of my meat eater friends here if you have any tips or vegetarian food that you like please drop them in!

Update - thanks for all of the comments, one big thing is that I am almost a double major and I don’t have much time to cook and I haven’t been successful with meal prep

Hi! I’m starting to look at places to live off-campus, and I’m not really sure where to start. In general, which apartment complexes (eg. Foxridge) are good, and more importantly, which ones should I avoid?

Hello everyone, I am resident in hethwood area, I decided to wash my beanbag and it popped in the dryer and now my whole house is full of fiber fillings,I tried vacuum but the one I have doesn’t seem to work well for that purpose. What should I expect if I contacted my landlord ? And what should I’m do if I want to do the repair myself? Thanks guys

While browsing for housing for VT, I stumbled across Clover Valley and I really loved the floor plans . Anyone who could give me more details ??

Link I found: https://www.apartments.com/clover-valley-phase-ii-blacksburg-va/32cwvcg/

What time are people going to be at center street today ?

Reformatted*

Hey everyone!

I’ll be joining Virginia Tech next year (super excited!), and I’m trying to get as much information as I can beforehand. I’ve got a couple of questions and would love your help!

1. Off-Campus Housing

I’m looking for off-campus housing options for a group of 4. I’ve tried searching online, but I’m not sure where to look or which sites are reliable. • Where should I start? • Which areas would you recommend living in for VT students?

2. U-Pass & Commute Info

I saw on the VT website that they offer a U-Pass for MetroBus and MetroRail, which sounds great. But I couldn’t find detailed information about how the connectivity works or how useful it would be. • Does anyone have a guide or link that explains this better? • I’m considering going to Fairfax often. Would the U-Pass help with commuting there?

Sorry if this feels like a lot! I just want to be prepared before I start this exciting journey. Appreciate any advice or guidance you can give.

Thanks in advance!

accidentally shipped my clothes order to my old dorm room and can't change the order.

am i gonna get fucked by owens or will they work with me to get it back?

Hello. Is there any drummer here who wants to experiment with some odd-time signature and polyrhythmic stuff? I play guitar and am interested in exploring rhythmic ideas based on odd time signatures, polyrhythms, etc. I am not a shredder or anything like that, but I love to write music, and it would be cool to have someone to jam to and maybe produce some original stuff. Even if you don't play this particular style of music but want to explore it as well, kindly let me know, too.

I know a few new places have opened recently, wondering what the general consensus is.

Hi! so I applied as an intended public health major, but I don't think I'm interested in that major and the way it is taught at Virginia tech. I've always likes the numerical aspects of public health! so it led to me realizing that I like statistics and basically math, so how hard would it be to switch out of the college of vet med? Please dont tell me im cooked. ( I wont be going engineering or cs so I dont think it would be hard too)

Dear VTers. I am a European phd student (M30) coming to Blacksburg in the spring for an internship (April-July). I am no spontaneous extrovert and would love to know of any social activities that one could sign up for. I like all different kind of sports, hiking, board games.. you name it. So if you, your club or community is looking for someone to join you next year, I would highly appreciate your ideas or suggestions. 🌱

hi guys i’m president of an org at tech and i was wondering how have past orgs won this coveted award? i feel like my org has definitely made strides and i want to hear if anyone has heard or themselves had an experience to share about this?

I’m bringing my car after thanksgiving break until finals which is ~2.5 weeks.

I’m wondering if it’s worth to drop 80 on a month parking pass or should I park at kroger/some place else. Also will I risk getting it towed if I park there?

PS I’m a freshman and don’t know anyone that lives in an apartment rn.

What does this VT policy mean for repeating courses?

This is what the VT website says:

“Students may not repeat courses in order to improve their grade average where a grade of C or higher has been earned. An assigned grade of A-D for the second occurrence will be changed to a grade of RP (Repeated Course) whenever a graduation analysis (DARS report) detects a repeated course with a C or better grade. Repeating a course where the course grade is C- or below will result in both instances of the graded course being computed in the grade point average."

From my understanding if I get a grade c or better it completely replaces the original grade, but that seems a little too good to be true. I got a D in a course a stupidly didn’t withdraw . I know I can technically retake this course at a community college, but I want to improve my GPA.

Based on this policy, is the way I read this correct ? Does anyone have experience with this?

For those who are still in Blacksburg and the surrounding area, here's a rundown of 10 local events you can enjoy for Thanksgiving including free meals, a 5k, paid meals and more.

Rundown of Thanksgiving Fun:
1. 2024 Pulaski County Gobble & Wobble 5k
Randolph Park, Dublin
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 8:30 - 11:30 AM
Runners and Walkers: $25.00, Youth Participants: $15.00, Leased Canines: $10.00, Pulaski County Public School Students: Free
Pulaski County Parks & Rec, Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce and Pulaski County presents the 2nd Annual Pulaski County Gobble & Wobble 5k. Join the fun as and kick off the holiday with tasty treats from local businesses along each leg of this 5K course including Broussard's, Draper's Bakers, Fazoli's, Food City, Johnny Ray's, Sal's Jr., The Phoenix Tavern, The Draper Mercantile and TJ's Place. Vote for your favorite local treat at the finish line. This is a great family friendly event for seniors, adults, and youth of all ages. Runners, walkers, strollers, and leashed dogs are welcome. Long sleeve t-shirts and dog bandanas are included with registration while supplies last. Proceeds benefit the Pulaski County Proud Scholarship. There will also be three separate prizes awarded for the best costumes including Best Youth, Best Adult and Best Group. Awards including medals and prizes by age group will be awarded starting at 9:30 AM. This is a chipped event supported by Run Roanoke. Race day registration begins at 7:30 AM and the race begins at 8:30 AM.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820523

2. A Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace with Winter Skating, Train Rides & More
Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Admission: Free, 
Winter Bliss Skating: $15.00 per person,
Pinecone Express Christmas Train Rides: $12.00 per person
Mountain Lake Lodge presents their 2nd Annual A Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace open every Wednesday through Sunday starting on Saturday, November 23, 2024 through Saturday, January 4, 2025. Experience the magic of the holidays at Mountain Lake Lodge's Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace, where festive charm meets mountain beauty. Wander through a twinkling Christmas village filled with cozy shops offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal delights including Toyland, Winter Whimsy and the North Pole Emporium. Enjoy family-friendly activities, including ice skating, Pinecone Express train rides around the village and family fun at Marshmallow Way. Take a stroll through the charming Christmas market, indulge in delicious treats, and feel the warmth of the season at our Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace. Every night after dark starting at 6:00 PM, enjoy Mountain Lake Lodge's Magical Light display. Enjoy a magical train ride around the lighted path with the Pinecone Express Christmas Train Rides. Head to Marshmallow Way to warm up by the fire pits, complete with a Hot Cocoa Bar and s'mores available for purchase. It's the perfect place to relax between adventures. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820557

3. 2024 Thanksgiving Grand Buffet
The Farmhouse, Christiansburg
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Adults: $44.95, Children Ages 5-12: $16.95, Children Under 5: Free
Savor a mouthwatering selection of traditional dishes, all made with love and the freshest ingredients. The Grand Buffet includes: Turkey & Gravy, Honey Glazed Ham, Herb Grilled Chicken, Sweet Potato Casserole, Mashed Potatoes, Cranberry Sauce, Chilled Shrimp Cocktail and more. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820525

4. 2024 Free Drive-Thru Thanksgiving Dinner
Jubilee Christian Center, Fairlawn
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Admission: Free
For those who may not have a place to go on Thanksgiving or are just struggling this year and won't be able fix a meal. Thanksgiving meals will be served drive-thru style starting at 11:00 AM and ending at 1:00 PM or until the food runs out. The meal includes turkey, stuffing & gravy, green beans, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, roll, dessert and drink.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820521

5. Baked with Love! Thanksgiving Edition (Free Pickup Meal)
Baking is for Lovers, Christiansburg
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Admission: Free
This annual Thanksgiving meal is dedicated to everyone who may not have the time or resources to cook for the holiday. Baking is for Lovers will provide delicious, homemade Thanksgiving meals available for pickup. Meals are offered free of charge and can be collected via drive-thru or walk-up, making it easy and convenient for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or someone spending the holiday alone, you are invited to come and celebrate with Baking is for Lovers by picking up a meal to-go. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820531

6. Thanksgiving Day All You Can Eat Buffet
The Blue Hen - Family Style Restaurant, Christiansburg
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 11:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Admission: $24.99
The Blue Hen Restaurant presents a Thanksgiving Day All You Can Eat Buffet. Enjoy a Home Cooked Turkey, Ham, Fried Chicken, Old Fashion Dressing, Mashed Potatoes, Turkey Gravy, Sweet Potato Casserole, Green Beans, Macaroni & Cheese, Corn Pudding, Cranberry Sauce Rolls, Tossed Salad, Fresh Pies and more. The meal also includes iced tea or coffee. Reservations are encouraged though walk-ins are welcome.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820594

7. Thanks Giving Meal
Central Church, Radford
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 12:00 - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Enjoy a sit down Thanks Giving Meal at Central Church. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820595

8. Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner
St. Michael Lutheran Church, Blacksburg
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Admission: Free
Join us for our Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner. Please call to reserve a spot.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820522

9. Thanksgiving Day Buffet and Thanksgiving Karaoke
Bull & Bones Brewhaus & Grill, Blacksburg
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 1:00 - 8:00 PM (Buffet), 7:00 - 11:00 PM (Thanksgiving Karaoke)
Buffet Cost: Adults: $40.00, Kids Ages 6-12: $20.00, Kids Ages 5 & Under: Free,
Karaoke: No cover
Bull & Bones Brewhaus & Grill presents a Thanksgiving Day Buffet with an all you can eat spread. Thanksgiving Buffet includes: Turkey Breast, Smoked Glazed Meatloaf, Honey Glazed Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potato Casserole, Corn on the Cob, Seasoned Green Beans, Mac & Cheese, Rolls with Honey Butter, Orange Cranberry Sauce, Salad Bar, Apple Cobbler, Bourbon Glazed Pecan Pie and more. Reservations are not required. Following your meal, enjoy Karaoke from 7-11 PM. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820527

10. 2024 Thanksgiving Dinner
BT's Restaurant, Radford
Thursday, November 28, 2024, 4:00 PM - TBD
Admission: $18.95
Join BT's Restaurant  for Thanksgiving starting at 4:00 PM serving a plated Thanksgiving meal. Your dinner will include: Slow Roasted Turkey, Sliced Pit Ham, Dressing, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Green Bean Casserole, Candied Sweet Potatoes, Corn Pudding, Deviled Eggs, Fresh Rolls and Cranberry Salad. The dinner also includes your choice of: Apple Pie a la Mode, Carrot Cake, German Chocolate Cake or Pumpkin Pie. Note: No substitutions. Reservations are welcome, but not required. Because not everyone loves turkey, BT's will also have a limited menu available to order from. 
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=820530

Hope you have a great Thanksgiving and thanks for reading!

I'm looking for roommates, preferably vegetarians, at the Blacksburg campus for the spring semester. If you're interested, please let me know.

Apparently, Duo Mobile is experiencing a bug where the app randomly switches language for no reason. Mine somehow changed to German, other people have reported that their language changed to Spanish or something else. It turns out that you can update your phone to iOS 16 and the problem goes away. Awesome!

Except it's not awesome if you have an iPhone 7, like I have. Since I'm stuck on iOS 15, I have to try to navigate the app in German, which is tedious to say the least. Additionally, Duo Mobile will no longer support iOS 15 at all after February, so if I have any further issues with it, I'm in danger of losing my account.

Am I just completely hosed? Do I need to fork over the money to buy a newer phone? I have no idea whom at VT I should reach out to about this, and I really would rather not spend the evening hunting around their labyrinth of a website if I don't have to. Any help at all would be massively appreciated!

1. They're on sale. Cheaper than a new gas car.

2. I wouldn't be able charge it from home when at Tech

3. But I feel like I'd have to charge multiple times just to go back home (?)