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I Am VMI: Julia Ward ’26 

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. 

I Am VMI: Julia Ward ’26 

  • VMI Class: 2026  
  • Major: Electrical & Computer Engineering  
  • Hometown: Frankfort, Illinois 
  • NCAA Sport: Water Polo  
  • Commissioning Plans: U.S. Navy – Hoping to service select Subs  
  • Other Clubs/Societies/Activities: VMI Pipes & Drums, Honor Court, Society Women’s Engineers (SWE) 

Julia Ward ’26 came to Virginia Military Institute uncertain of herself and her leadership abilities.  

“I wanted to challenge myself,” she said. “I knew I wanted to put myself in a better position as a newly commissioned officer. I figured there was no other place to take opportunities and learn to flourish. I liked the family aspect of VMI and the alumni connections that come from time spent at VMI.” 

Ward said there’s always something to do at VMI and she enjoys the busy pace. 

“Whether it is a sporting event, a debate, a dinner, a speaker, or simply just class work, it keeps you busy. I like to be active and VMI is the place for that,” she explained. “It isn’t always military either; there are plenty of clubs or activities to get engaged in the Corps.” 

She had the opportunities for engagement to help build her and others into a family, noting there’s always a group of supporters for each cadet— either with the staff, faculty, or other cadets.  

“Everyone wants you to succeed. This year strengthened that bond with a lot of people at school. I had a death of two very close people to me at the beginning of the semester that made me almost not come back for the semester. Having the support system I have here let me come back, get back on my feet, and keep leading for a deeper purpose,” she said. “I had a lot of responsibilities before leaving and I knew if I didn’t return, I would be letting a lot of people down, but I would also not be living for the two that I lost. I would not have come back if it was not for the support system of the commandant staff, my professors, and the people around me who lift me up every day.” 

VMI is rigorous, but rewarding, Ward explained. Each day brings a new set of challenges she can work through.  

“I think it has forced me to come out of my shell a lot. I have honestly fully transformed from the person I was three years ago sitting in a high school seat ready to graduate,” she said. “It is a surreal feeling to watch your dreams unfold in front of you. I have wanted to serve in the military for a while and having that dream come to life in the next year is still unreal to me, not to mention all of the experiences I have been able to have to travel, to lead, to put myself out there, and get hands on instruction is something I would not have had if I chose to go anywhere else. It’s very rare that you go to any other college and NCAA is just another thing you do because there are so many other opportunities like holding rank and cadet government that can bring experience to your time at a school.” 

“I think it has forced me to come out of my shell a lot. I have honestly fully transformed from the person I was three years ago sitting in a high school seat ready to graduate. It is a surreal feeling to watch your dreams unfold in front of you.”

The electrical and computer engineering major originally wanted to pursue mechanical engineering. When she first came to VMI, she was interested in a career in biomedical engineering after commissioning into the U.S. Navy. She saw that the electrical engineering department had more to offer in that background, so, she made a last-minute switch.  

“I have no further regrets, and I do not question my future success using a technical degree in the Navy or in industry based on the instruction I have been able to receive in the classroom,” she said. 

Julia Ward during Virginia Military Institute's 1st Class rank announcements.

Ward admits that VMI has made her a more confident person.  

“It puts you in positions that force you to make hard decisions in a low-risk situation so the time that it really matters we will know how to react or step up to the plate to lead because that’s just our nature now,” she commented. 

VMI has also prepared her for her future in the Navy. She’s been able to see that during summer training for Naval ROTC, but credits the confidence boost the Institute instills to be a big factor in her future successes.  

“I think it really is the confidence we exude from our decision-making abilities and the way we interact with teams of all different backgrounds. We already know what it feels like to get beat down and build ourselves back up again,” she said. “There is a lot of resilience that comes from going here and it allows graduates to bring creative solutions to the table and to work harder than everyone in the room because the thought of failure doesn’t scare us, we just pick ourselves back up and keep going.” 

Ward said it’s been easy to fit in at VMI — no matter what, you find your people. Overall, the pride she has gained being a VMI cadet has been the best experience.  

“How hard the average person works here is tenfold above every other school,” she described. “How eager to help and get involved people are here is something that doesn’t get spoken about enough at our school, how close we are to everyone.” 

I Am VMI: Devin Auzenne ’26 

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. 

I Am VMI: Devin Auzenne ’26 

  • Name: Devin Auzenne  
  • VMI Class: 2026  
  • Major(s) (and minor if applicable): History, with a concentration in military history   
  • Hometown: Opelousas, Louisiana   
  • NCAA and/or Club Sports: Boxing (4th and 3rd Class years), aviation club (2nd Class year), and Jiu-Jitsu club  
  • Post-Graduation Plans: Commission, U.S. Marine Corps 
  • Other Clubs/Societies/Activities: Member of the Virginia History Society and Omicron Delta Kappa   

Devin Auzenne ’26 knew the ethics and maturity needed for the U.S. Marine Corps would best be fostered in a place like Virginia Military Institute. He also knew by attending the Institute, he would be prepared to lead in the Marine Corps. 

After watching a YouTube video by VMI labeled “Don’t Do Ordinary,” he instantly knew this was the college he wanted to attend. 

“I chose VMI because I wanted something different. I didn’t want to do the regular college thing,” he explained. 

Going into his senior year of high school, he received a Marine Corps scholarship, which solidified his decision. He said he was looking for the right avenue to make him the best when it came time to commission after graduating.  

Auzenne has always had a deep appreciation for history. Thanks to an influential high school teacher, his eyes were opened to the analytical and argumentative sides of the subject, which spurred him to study it further. VMI’s deep history and historical site, along with an incredible faculty, pushed him to be a history major.  

“I really love history, and I know the program that we have here is really good, especially with getting a minor in military history,” he said. “I wanted to delve deeper into that. When I go into the Marine Corps, I’ll have this knowledge of history, and with a deeper understanding of military history and it can really help me in my career.” 

He says the people he’s encountered at VMI are truly exceptional.  

“I also enjoy how unique each year’s challenges are. Overall, the ability to always have someone here to have your back is very special,” he explained.  

The experiences at VMI have helped him gain intangible skills he believes he couldn’t have thoroughly developed in any other environment.  

“Skills such as patience, time management, grit, and flexibility have allowed me to find ways to succeed in foreign environments,” he said. “My experience at VMI is adversity that is ever changing, opportunities that are once in a lifetime, bonds that can never break, and a great place to be from but not at.”    

His experience at VMI has also made him more self-aware. He’s able to understand who he is when under pressure or stress, and how to balance everything while still progressing forward.  

“Skills such as patience, time management, grit, and flexibility have allowed me to find ways to succeed in foreign environments. My experience at VMI is adversity that is ever changing, opportunities that are once in a lifetime, bonds that can never break, and a great place to be from but not at.”    

“It’s helped me to understand how to take these experiences, try and do the best in the moment, and then reflect upon them, so that the next time something comes around, I’ll be better for it,” he stated. “It’s building this flexibility and this resilience in me that I don’t think I could have received at any other college. Being resilient and also being able to think and make decisions on the fly is something I think is invaluable in the context of the military system.” 

These qualities will transfer to anything he chooses to do later in life.  

“My time at VMI will translate into me being more certain of who I am as a leader and a man,” he said. “When I graduate and commission into the Marine Corps, I am certain that because of my time at VMI, I will have an advantage compared to my peers.” 

Devin Auzenne leads the Corps of Cadets in Lexington during Matriculation at Virginia Military Institute.

Auzenne wants those outside the VMI world to know that the Institute is not just a school, but a community and a culture.  

“The end result of the VMI system is forged through the rigors of the regimental, class, and honor systems, but the extraordinary people are the defining factor that sets VMI apart,” he stated. “The illustrious history of VMI cadets and alumni, and, despite the differences in the times, the common experience we all share makes me proud to say that I am a VMI cadet.” 

I Am VMI: Sadie Smith ’26

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 showcases 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.

Role at VMI: 2nd Class Cadet (Junior), VMI Class of 2026
Major: International Studies
Hometown: Ontario, California
Featured Activities: NCAA Division 1 Water Polo | Hotel Co. Commander 2025-26 | Honors Program
Post-Graduation Plans: Government Intelligence

Sadie Smith ’26 was looking for a college that could prepare her for a successful career and life. She said Virginia Military Institute is a place like no other and it offered the kind of lifestyle she was striving for.

“I am a cadet-athlete and VMI makes it possible to balance intense academics, sports, and rigorous military obligations,” she said. “VMI has given me so many tools to succeed and incredible leadership opportunities within the Corps and on the water polo team. I knew I would face many challenges here, but I was looking for that and it has made me into who I am today. VMI has provided me with unique opportunities to build good discipline, honor, and incredible character while putting service before self.”

As an international studies major, she has discovered a passion for national security.

“I enjoy seeing various viewpoints on topics, as well as the variety of skills political science knowledge helps build like writing, reading, debating, and organization. I added a computer science and national security minor because it is very applicable to the field of work that I would like to pursue,” she explained.

Smith went on to highlight the growth her professors encourage. “I especially value the academic challenge here and how well I have gotten to know the professors in the international studies department, they are incredible and always looking to help me succeed.”

She said her experience at VMI has been transformational — for both herself and for her water polo team. VMI has served as a place where she can balance Division I athletics, a challenging major, ROTC, and the opportunity to partake in rank positions within the Corps of Cadets.

“VMI is an environment that fosters professionalism and accountability on a daily basis, which maintains a structured military lifestyle,” she said.

With the opportunity to hold rank, she’s been able to train new cadets by establishing a good culture and spirit. Smith has also been able to balance her responsibilities by practicing good time management skills that have made her a proficient worker, team member, and friend.

“There are very few schools that make it possible to do this, and regardless if you are commissioning or not, you can be involved in incredible leadership opportunities,” she said. “I am involved in training incoming rats at VMI, and have developed so much as a leader and feel that being on a team doing this we give back to VMI by helping to form the incoming rats into a class and setting individuals up to live a successful life here. This all boils down to the connection VMI cadets have with each other and alumni that are long lasting and unlike any other.”

She said she’s proud to be a VMI cadet because she’s been able to embody honor and discipline.

“There is an incredible culture here of hard work and dedication, and I feel that I can rely on anyone to be supportive in the VMI community,” she commented. “The honor system instilled and the ability to sustain it makes VMI special. Discipline and hard work are highly valuable here and will pay off due to all of the incredible opportunities VMI has to offer.”

Although she believes that everyone has the potential to be a leader, she credits VMI for giving her the confidence and support to grow as one.

“This requires facing challenges that are not always pretty or fun in the moment, but they have really shaped me into a well-rounded individual and given me resilience and confidence to attack any challenge with effort and perseverance,” she admitted. “VMI has shown me that when you put your mind to something and are purpose driven, then you can accomplish your goals in all aspects of life.”

Her future hopes include working for the Defense Intelligence Agency. This summer, she is well on her way to that goal with an internship with the agency.

“I feel that VMI has prepared me as a well-versed leader to be able to succeed at this internship and to go out of my comfort zone,” she said. “I feel excited to work in a team environment and hope to receive further opportunities with this agency later after graduation. VMI has also taught me to be prepared for the unexpected and that not everything goes your way all the time. I like to keep an open mind and know that the skills I have learned here will aid me if I receive a job, go to graduate school, or take time to travel after VMI.”

Overall, VMI has given her relationships she knows will last for life.

“I have made so many amazing friends and have had the opportunity to interact with and work with incredible people, teammates, coaches, and professors,” she explained. “VMI, being a small community built on integrity and resilience, allows people to form long lasting bonds and relate significantly on a personal level. Everyone here is on their own path and working at their own goals, however, I love how cadets still feel very connected. VMI also has an amazing support system and resources to succeed in athletics, academic, and military.”

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.”

I Am VMI: Kevin Garroway ’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 showcases 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.

Role at VMI: 1st Class Cadet (Senior), VMI Class of 2025
Major: Civil Engineering
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
Featured Activities: India Co. XO 2024-25 | VMI Army ROTC Ranger Challenge, including Cambrian Patrol Commander
Post-Graduation Plans: Commission, U.S. Army Infantry

Kevin Garroway ’25 wanted a challenge. All it took was one visit to Virginia Military Institute and he could see how different it was from other schools. He was sold.

“My experience has been great. It gives me the opportunity to struggle, but also gives me the resources to overcome,” he said.

The civil engineering major initially started out as a chemistry major. But after taking AP biochemistry in high school, he decided to shift, he explained.

He says he enjoys being in such close proximity to his friends. They work out together, eat together, and hang out.

“I’ve gotten to do some cool things at VMI, but I’m most proud of the Institute when I’m with my friends here,” he said.

He says he’s grown immensely since starting at VMI.

“I feel that, as a rat, I had a lot of people above me who I wanted to be like. When I first started, I recognized that I was at the bottom and would have to earn my place, but I saw where I wanted to be. I had a lot of people who helped me see what it took to get to the places where I wanted to be,” he admitted.

He said the skills he’s gained at the Institute will translate well when he enters the U.S. Army.

“I believe that VMI cadets typically have a different mentality than most,” he said. “We are used to a lot of bad things happening at one time and figuring out a way to overcome them. When bad things happen to peers at different schools, it seems to stop them or at least throw them down. We feel at home in the struggle.

“VMI is not going to magically turn you into the next five-star general, it takes effort,” he continued. “Some people come in and reap the rewards without sowing the seeds. You truly get in what you put out. The opportunities are here, it’s just a matter of if you are willing to go and grab them.”