I Am VMI: Woongchan Oh ’25
What truly defines Virginia Military Institute are the people. Cadets, faculty, and staff, both past and present, are what make it “No Ordinary College.” I Am VMI will showcase the outstanding individuals who have accepted the challenges and embraced the spirit of VMI. Their perspectives provide authentic insights into life at the Institute and the value of this unique military college.
Major: Civil Engineering
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea | Harrisonburg, Virginia
Featured Activities: NCAA Division 1 Soccer | Tau Beta Pi Honors Society
Post-Graduation Plans: Commission, U.S. Army
Woongchan Oh ’25 had considered a military path during high school. But it was a soccer scholarship to Virginia Military Institute that solidified his decision.
“The opportunity to continue both my academic and athletic career ultimately led me to choose VMI,” he explained.
Oh wanted to pursue an engineering degree and among the three engineering programs at VMI, civil engineering offered the most hands-on experience and fieldwork, he said.
His experience at VMI has been crucial in his personal and professional growth. The demanding environment has helped him develop strong time management skills and perseverance.
Balancing academics, athletics, and military training has been a continual challenge for him and has encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone. VMI has shaped him into a more adaptable and confident individual, one who is ready to take on any future challenges with determination, he admitted.
“My experience at VMI has been unique compared to other cadets. I sought out every opportunity available to me, and I took full advantage of them,” he said. “I played NCAA soccer for all four years while balancing my engineering degree. In addition to my academic and athletic commitments, I enlisted in the Army as a combat engineer, studied abroad at Korea University, conducted summer research, and completed a summer internship with the Virginia Department of Transportation. None of this would have been possible without the support of my friends, faculty, and VMI alumni. I am always thankful for them and grateful for the opportunities I have had.”
Oh credits the one-of-a-kind environment of VMI to his successes — in the classroom, on the soccer field, in his personal life, and more.
“I enjoy hanging out with my roommates, who are also my teammates and classmates,” he said. “VMI is a unique place where you share every experience with your friends, strengthening your bond and creating lifelong friendships.”
Oh has also been equipped with discipline and resilience at VMI.
“The ability to manage time effectively, adapt to challenges, and perform under pressure will be invaluable in my future career,” he commented. “Whether in the military, engineering, or any other field, the leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills I developed at VMI will help me succeed. Additionally, the strong network of alumni, faculty, and friends who have supported me throughout my journey will continue to be a valuable resource as I move forward.”
He said he’s proud to be from VMI and revels in the fact that he has experienced the same school life as generations before him.
“In today’s world, fewer young people are willing to challenge themselves or embrace pressure and stressful situations. I am grateful that I chose a different path that pushed me beyond my comfort zone,” he said. “VMI, like any other place, does not guarantee success, but I can assure you that everyone in the VMI community wants you to succeed. They will guide and support you along the way. With an open mind and determination, you will find countless opportunities to grow and excel.”
