John S. Lillard Scholar
Lincolnshire, Illinois

“As a high school senior, it is hard to imagine what lies ahead in University life.  I never would have imagined that I’d travel with friends to China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, London, and Paris in a single summer.  I never would have imagined that I’d take classes in auditing, silicon VLSI technology, industrial organization, and public policy analysis in a single semester.  I never would have imagined that I’d advise University administrators on educational policy, building construction projects, and funding issues.  I never would have imagined that I’d be trusted to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in alumni donations.  I never would have imagined that I’d work one-on-one with top faculty on student initiated research projects.

“The University of Virginia has provided me with these opportunities and more over the past three years.  I am truly grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to live and learn in the UVa community.  I am humbled by the energetic and talented individuals that I meet everyday across grounds.  What separates UVa from other higher education institutions is the emphasis it places on student empowerment and learning outside of the classroom.  The Jefferson Scholars program offers the additional benefits of financial freedom, enrichment programs, supporting professional staff, and a network of fellow scholars.”