Psychology Student Ambassadors
Student Ambassadors act as the primary liaison between students (incoming and current) and the Psychology department faculty and staff. Ambassadors spread information from faculty and staff to the student community about social events, academic planning, and more. They also vocalize feedback from the student body to the faculty and staff. They share their positive experiences as a psychology student and assist in departmental recruitment events. Student Ambassadors will have the opportunity to hone in on public speaking and networking skills and stand out to future graduate programs and employers.
Please email psycadvising@vt.edu if you are interested in meeting with a Psychology Student Ambassador when you visit campus.
2024-2025 Psychology Student Ambassadors
Alyssa An
My name is Alyssa An, and I’m from Centreville, Virginia. I plan on graduating in Spring 2026 with degrees in Psychology and Political Science and a minor in Adaptive Brain and Behavior. I am currently an undergraduate research assistant working in the Memory and Policy Lab. I immediately knew I wanted to be a Hokie after visiting in high school. I was attracted to the overwhelming sense of community and school spirit! I love attending Virginia Tech sports events and cheering on my fellow Hokies! In my free time, I enjoy helping coach for New River Soccer. After graduation, I plan on pursuing a career in law.
Olivia Cox
My name is Olivia Cox, and I'm from Prince Frederick, Maryland. I'm a senior double majoring in Psychology and Human Development with a minor in Adaptive Brain and Behavior, graduating in Spring 2025. I chose Virginia Tech because of the College of Science and all the opportunities it has to offer for students. In addition to Psychology Ambassadors, I'm involved in two research labs in the Psychology department, Vice President of Omega Phi Alpha, Co-President of the College of Science Ambassadors, and an ambassador for the Office of Undergraduate Research. After graduation, I am hopeful to pursue a Ph.D. in either Clinical or School Psychology to achieve my goal of developing interventions for at-risk youth and their families. When I have free time, I love to read so much that I read 60 books last year!
Lily Jo
My name is Lily and I am from Vienna, Virginia! I major in Psychology, and I am minoring in Adaptive Brain & Behavior, Disabilities Studies, and Leadership & Social Change! I am set to graduate in Spring 2026. My favorite thing about VT is how welcoming the Psychology community is! One club I am involved in is the Sheep and Goat Club! After graduating, a goal of mine is to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology, and work to tear down the stigma behind mental health care in Asian communities.
Karina Patel
My name is Karina and I’m a junior from North Brunswick, New Jersey. I’m majoring in Psychology and earning a minor in Disability Studies and Collaborative Discovery through the Honors College. I plan to graduate in Fall 2025, but remain in Blacksburg through the Spring! I chose Virginia Tech because the STEM department offers a wide range of opportunities and collaboration, and I instantly felt at home when I transferred. On campus, I am a part of the Psychology Student Ambassadors, Undergraduate Research, Delta Epsilon Mu, and Greek Life! Upon graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to obtain my Doctor of Occupational Therapy because I really enjoy the developmental function aspects of psychology. Outside of school, you can find me traveling or hiking!
Jason "Blaine" Pittman
I am Blaine Pittman, a sophomore majoring in psychology with minors in biological sciences and adaptive brain and behavior. I am from Bristol, Virginia, which is about two hours from Blacksburg. Before touring Virginia Tech, I didn't even want to apply here because it’s close to home. However, my parents made me tour and I will forever be grateful. After touring, I knew I wanted to be a Hokie due to the vibrant campus life, a proud student section at any Hokie event, research opportunities, the large array of clubs, and more. As soon as I got home, I began my application for early decision! I believe that Virginia Tech is a great place for me, as well as anyone else who enjoys well-taught courses, abundant social and academic opportunities, and school spirit. I am a member of Snow Club, which is a social club for snowboarders and skiers at VT, as well as an instructor for the Compress and Shock Foundation. I also organize intramural sports teams each Fall. I intend to graduate VT in May of 2027 and attend medical school the following semester. Once I finish my lengthy education, I will fulfill my long-held dream of becoming a psychiatrist.
Kaylin Upson
My name is Kaylin Upson, and I’m originally from Winchester, Virginia. I am a Psychology major with a minor in Adaptive Brain and Behavior, and I will be graduating from Virginia Tech in Spring 2025. I chose Virginia Tech because of its close-knit community, beautiful outdoor spaces, and the vibrant energy that Hokie students bring to campus. Throughout my time here, I’ve loved attending sporting events and immersing myself in the school spirit that makes VT so special. Academically, I am a Research Assistant in the Research for Alcohol and Couples Health (REACH) Lab, and I serve as the Vice President of Membership for the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) On Campus. After graduation, I plan to pursue a graduate degree in clinical psychology or mental health counseling to achieve my goal of becoming a mental health counselor. I am passionate about helping others and look forward to a career dedicated to supporting mental well-being! A fun fact about me is that I love cats, mine at home is named Sushi.
