By Marcy Bernabei, former Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions & Recruiting
Meet Sam Park and Robin Subedi, two professionals and student ambassadors whose paths have brought them to UVA’s Grounds in Charlottesville during Module 4 of the M.S. in the Management of Information Technology Program. Sam has spent over two decades in IT, focusing on networks, servers, virtualization, and security. Robin brings over a decade of IT expertise from roles at Navy Federal Credit Union, DXC Technology, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Their time at UVA reflects their shared enthusiasm for integrating IT with business and leveraging their backgrounds to enhance their M.S. in MIT journey.
Can you describe your overall experience of the M.S. in MIT Charlottesville residency weekend?
Sam: I had a great time overall. Visiting the UVA campus for the first time was exciting and gave me a real sense of connection as a professional student. While we get some of this at Valo Park, it’s not the same as being on Grounds, walking around, visiting the bookstore, and seeing the sights. I enjoyed bonding with my classmates over both days, feeling like we were all in this together. The nostalgic feeling of getting up in the morning, walking to class, and carrying a backpack reminded me of my undergrad days.
Robin: Overall, my experience was truly awesome. Initially, coordinating everything, like reservations and time off from work, seemed challenging. Once I arrived, I realized it should have happened sooner and maybe even more frequently. Being physically on UVA’s Grounds, despite having classes at Valo Park in Tyson, was enlightening. The environment was different and positively impactful. I’d been to Charlottesville before but never to UVA, so seeing the campus, the buildings, and the entire town through the UVA lens was significant.
How was the Knowledge Continuum, and what did you find most helpful from that experience?
Sam: I really enjoyed connecting with the folks in the Knowledge Continuum who are M.S. in MIT graduates. We had the opportunity to sit at lunch and discuss Module 4, as we were just getting started with it at that time. Hearing their perspectives on what they went through, what to be on the lookout for, and what to expect as we progress was incredibly valuable. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to pay it forward and participate in the Knowledge Continuum next year.
Robin: There was some time during lunch when we had the option to network, but it turned out to be more focused on our project discussions among my teammates. While my team didn’t engage as we should have, quick networking and hearing the experiences from the other cohorts were insightful. If I had to do it over, I would spend more time interacting with the Knowledge Continuum participants.
How did the residency weekend help you interact with your classmates?
Sam: The residency weekend facilitated engagement with classmates in several key ways. The smaller class size and closer seating arrangement made it easier to interact, share jokes, and comment during class, fostering a closer atmosphere. The tiered room layout ensured everyone had a good view, maintaining engagement. Seeing faculty like Professor Gray and Professor Lefanowicz around McIntire was also a highlight. Walking around Grounds and taking breaks with classmates, such as going to the bookstore or taking a stroll, was nice to interact with classmates outside of the classroom. Overall, the weekend setup allowed for more organic and frequent engagement, and a larger sense of community.
Robin: The experience was quite similar to Valo Park in terms of the faculty and engaging with classmates. The classroom setting itself was different, as we didn’t have the usual technology setup we’re accustomed to. Adjusting to that was a small change, but overall, being on UVA Grounds and in the physical class setting was a nice experience. It allowed us to dive into discussions not just about our coursework and projects but also about UVA itself, Charlottesville, and its history. This conversation was a unique aspect compared to our usual interactions at Valo Park, which primarily focused on work and projects.
What were your favorite things to see or do around Charlottesville during the residency weekend?
Sam: A bunch of us got together on Thursday evening and visited a Kardinal Hall and then walked to Random Row Brewing. We then headed downtown for dinner in the Downtown Mall area with various restaurants and shops, which was a nice experience. On Friday night, we visited Morven Farms, enjoying the beautiful rolling hills and great weather. It was a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the outdoors with classmates.
Saturday night, for those who stayed over, we explored the Dairy Market. It was within walking distance from our hotel, and we had a fantastic time dining and connecting there. It was a great way to wrap up the weekend, spending quality time with classmates in a relaxed setting. Thanks to classmate Jeff Toy for a lift back to the hotel in the evening in the middle of a massive rainstorm!
Robin: One thing I regret is not adding a couple of extra days to my trip, either before or after the residency weekend. Despite that, I did manage to enjoy some activities. Before class started, we gathered at The Bebedero and had a great meal. Afterward, we took a group stroll through downtown Charlottesville in the evening. It was a lovely experience reminiscent of similar outings we’ve had in Argentina.
After class on Friday, we visited Morven Farms for food and drinks. The green spaces and gardens were beautiful, and we enjoyed a walk and a stunning sunset. If you’re ever in Charlottesville, I highly recommend visiting Morven Farms, especially in the spring season—it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.
Another memorable moment was after the first day of class, when we headed to a bar for drinks and to unwind. It was unexpectedly crowded, but we enjoyed meeting other students, including undergrads and former students now working.
How did Charlottesville add to the whole residency experience?
Sam: Charlottesville enhanced the residency experience for me. Being on the UVA Grounds, where most students do their coursework, brought back nostalgic memories of college campuses. The area’s cozy, collegiate atmosphere with trees, shade, and small shops reminded me of where I grew up and my time at Hobart College in upstate New York.
Robin: Being in Charlottesville significantly enhanced my residency experience by allowing me to physically connect with UVA’s campus, which wouldn’t have been the same just attending classes at Valo Park. Initially skeptical, I now appreciate the weekend trip for immersing me in UVA’s atmosphere and campus life and fostering personal connections with professors and classmates. Reflecting on this, I believe residency weekends are essential for professionals like us, and multiple weekends could deepen our learning experience further. Overall, experiencing UVA firsthand added a unique dimension to our M.S. in MIT Program journey.
Where did you stay in Charlottesville, and did you stay with your cohort?
Sam: I stayed at Little Mod Hotel, and there were about four or five other classmates who also stayed there. We discovered this in the weeks leading up to the residency, so it was nice to walk back and forth to class together. The hotel was comfortable and conveniently located about a 15-minute walk from Rouss & Robertson Halls.
Robin: We chose an Airbnb conveniently located near UVA, making commuting easy. I stayed with two other cohort members, which was fantastic. Having previously traveled together with them to Mendoza, Argentina, during our module two Global Program, it felt like a reunion. I highly recommend planning accommodation in advance, as places fill up quickly and prices can rise significantly.
What advice would you give to students attending the Charlottesville residency next year?
Sam: If you’re visiting Charlottesville, be prepared for its walkable but hilly setting. Consider extending your trip to explore activities like golfing, visiting wineries or breweries, and hiking. Pack comfortable walking shoes and attire for both indoor and outdoor activities, along with essentials like your laptop and work materials. Keep it simple and practical, much like preparing for a short business trip.
Robin: I strongly recommend arriving a day early or staying a day after the residency to explore Charlottesville, visit local restaurants, and unwind. If bringing family or friends, ensure they have activities planned since residency days are packed. Plan additional activities in advance, and coordinate with your cohort for group outings. This will make your residency not just about the classes but also about enjoying Charlottesville and creating memorable experiences.
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