Alexis Sexton

Alexis is from Lexington, SC. She will be attending graduate school at Virginia Tech, where she has earned an assistantship, to pursue a master’s degree in civil engineering with a focus on construction engineering and management.

What is your favorite memory from your time at WVU Tech?

My soil mechanics class and lab, because I finally met all my friends in my degree and we always had a lot of fun during that lab.

What did you enjoy most about the civil engineering program?

The people in my degree are great, and our professors are also amazing. We get together outside of class and hang out. It is an awesome group of people. My professors are always available to help and teach in a way that is not boring.

How did Tech prepare you for the future?

Dr. Musick, our transportation professor, gave us lots of real-world examples. He is always on Google Earth showing transportation systems in the real world, and that has directly translated to every internship I have had. Dr. Dickman also took us on many field trips—our Friday classes were often hands-on experiences where we saw exactly what we were learning in class that week. That kind of experience that translates directly to the workforce has been invaluable.

Which person at Tech has had the biggest impact on your college experience? How has that person helped you?

Dr. Leftwich just retired, but he was the best professor I have ever had. His tests were the hardest, but we always knew what we were doing because he taught it so well. He helped me a lot with graduate school—giving me motivation and helping me understand my options. He started talking to me about it during my sophomore year, and I did not think I would pursue it until this year.

Also, Dr. Kase Poling. I have only had him this semester, but he has talked with me a lot about life and what to do with my degree. He is a great teacher who presents material in a way that keeps it interesting for everyone.

As a soon-to-be graduate, what is your best advice for incoming students?

Branch out and meet people outside your usual circle, especially those in your major or with similar interests. At WVU Tech, it is easy to build connections, and those relationships can make a big difference in your college experience and future career. Also, build strong relationships with your professors—they will go above and beyond and vouch for you long after graduation.

What will you miss most about Tech?

I will miss the late nights studying with my classmates in the library. It often felt like studying was fun because we worked together, laughed, and found ways to make even the toughest problems enjoyable.