Coming to campus this week: The winner of a U.S. engineering competition. An internationally touring symphony musician. A two-time world champ in synchronized figure skating. A singer with her own album. No, they’re not coming to perform or lecture, they’re coming to join UVM’s Class of 2020 — one of the most talented and academically accomplished classes in university history.

Take a closer look at the accomplishments of just a few of the 2,500 students who arrive Friday, and why they chose UVM.

Sierra JonesSierra Jones, from Rochester, New York, an accomplished singer and entrepreneur, who was signed by a record company, recorded her own album, and started a business to involve kids with music.

Why UVM? "I chose UVM because they saw me as a person, not another student. From the moment I received a handwritten note from a current nursing major, I knew that my experience there would be personal. UVM makes me feel capable of just about anything; expanding my strengths, challenging my weaknesses, and exploring my passions. I truly believe there is no better place to continue my education and my life than at UVM."

Clark DengClark Deng, from South Burlington, Vermont, national winner of the Real World Design Challenge, an annual engineering competition.

Why UVM? "I chose UVM for their commitment to expand upon the plethora of opportunities within the School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences through groundbreaking and ambitious initiatives such as the upcoming STEM Complex. UVM’s holistic and interdisciplinary approach will provide the best method to progress my skills beyond the classroom and become a leader within my respective industry. Beyond academics, the appeal of UVM’s diverse community and location within Burlington and along the shores of Lake Champlain provides the perfect atmosphere for a college education."

Abbie DillonAbbie Dillon, from London, England, who, after worldwide auditions, was named second tuba in an internationally touring orchestra.

Why UVM? "I chose UVM because of its diversity, range of subjects offered, and the flexibility and support I have received when deciding what I want to study. The campus is beautiful and Burlington offers a relaxed artistic community with tons of activities."



Lila CanavanLily Canavan, from Newton Center, Massachusetts, a two-time U.S. national rock climbing team member, who has competed internationally and won a silver medal at the 2014 PanAm Championship:

Why UVM? “I chose UVM because it is an excellent academic school that is located in such a beautiful area. It has a strong, welcoming community full of outdoor-oriented people which makes it an ideal place to continue my passion for climbing.”

 

Matt StromeckiMatthew Stromecki, from Orchard Park, New York, who led and rallied his lacrosse team and community to raise money for cancer research.

Why UVM? I chose UVM for its exceptional pre-vet program, it's overall location, and its environment. The pre-veterinary program is one that is highly rated throughout the country, and I'm honored to become a part of it. Its location is definitely one of the main draws to me because of Burlington. The city offers so many fun activities and is just what I wanted in a college town. The university is also in such a great spot to offer skiers like me the dream winters that we crave. Lastly, the environment at UVM is one that is welcoming, accepting, fun, and appreciative towards life. I cannot imagine myself being anywhere else.

PUBLISHED

08-22-2016
Amanda Kenyon Waite