By Tayler Butters

Tonisha Montgomery is an academic advisor with a passion for advising transfer students. As a transfer student herself, Montgomery’s college career began as an early childhood education major at Francis Marion University before transferring to Voorhees College and studying sociology. In her free time, she loves to travel, with her favorite destinations being San Francisco and Waikiki, Honolulu. 

Recently, Montgomery spoke with us about her path to becoming an advisor, her college experience, and her advice for students. 

What was college like for you?

TM: I enjoyed college but wish that I was more involved. 

Tell me about your path to becoming an academic advisor. What drew you to the career, and why is it important?

TM: During my former career as a Tutorial Coordinator for Student Support Services, I was asked to meet with students that were underperforming to track their progress and provide support. I was also asked to teach their freshman seminar which started my path to becoming an academic advisor. Advising is important to me to not only support students that want to further their education but to assist students to follow their dreams and education and career goals.

What brought you to Virginia Tech?

TM: After receiving my master’s degree in adult education in 2018, I searched for employment that would allow me to utilize my advising practices and foster my ideas for supporting students. My experience at Tech and with Tech students has provided me with advising growth and depth in my career. 

What is something you would like students to know?

TM: Advisors provide the resources necessary for success and maximize student potential. 

What advice do you have for students who may be struggling in computer science or don’t know if the program is right for them?

TM: The advice I have for students struggling in CS is to utilize teaching assistant and professor office hours. Be sure to make an appointment with your advisor to discuss resources the campus has to offer in regard to your issue or situation as soon as it arises to find a solution sooner rather than later.  

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