STEP FAQ's

Please look through the FAQ's to see if your question has been answered. If it has not, feel free to email us at step@vt.edu

What is the cost of the program and is it refundable?

The cost of the program is $1,750, and the money is not refundable.

How many students are accepted into the program

100 students may participate in the 2013 program.

I plan to fly to Roanoke Airport to attend STEP. How do I find transportation to campus?

Transportation to and from Roanoke Regional Airport is available through a van shuttle service or the Smart Way Bus. Click here for details.

My parents are driving me to Blacksburg, and they plan to stay overnight. Where can they find find lodging?

To find a list of hotels, motels, and bed & breakfast inns for the Blacksburg/Christiansburg click here.

May I keep my car on campus during the program?

You may drive yourself to Blacksburg for the program, but you are required to leave your keys with the Program Director. You are not allowed to drive it for the duration of the program because of liability issues.

Are residence hall rooms furnished; if so, what furniture is included?

Yes. Please keep in mind that rooms may vary, but a typical room includes:

  • Two desks
  • Two chairs
  • Two chests of drawers (or one double chest)
  • One bunk bed with two mattresses (may be debunked)
  • Overhead florescent light
  • Sink
  • Mirror and medicine cabinet with light
  • Two closets
  • Telephone
  • Coat hooks
  • Towel racks
  • Typically, about four outlets
  • Window coverings (blinds/shades)

Will I have a roommate?

Yes.

Am I required to have a laptop computer for the program?

Yes, you are required to have a laptop. 

Once you are accepted into STEP, you need to purchase your computer immediately.  It takes 2-3 weeks to receive it, so if you order right away, you will have it in time for the program.  If you have financial issues or concerns, please contact step@vt.edu.  College of Engineering computer requirements are available at www.eng.vt.edu/it/requirement.

Do the courses we take during STEP count for credit for our freshman year?

No.

Do we receive grades in the courses?

Yes.

What other activities will we do during STEP?

You will have the opportunity to meet a number of people who will be involved in your academic career at VT - faculty, staff, other students, and corporate representatives. The schedule includes activities such as the Ropes Course, an etiquette dinner, 4th of July cookout, and guest speakers.

May I leave early for vacations?

No.

May I leave for the weekend?

No.

May I miss activities planned for the program?

No.

May my parents come to visit?

Yes.  Parents and immediate family members are approved visitors.

I would like to leave some of my possessions here instead of taking them home and having to bring them back when I move in. What can I do?

You may not leave your belongings in the residence hall! You will need to rent a unit in a local storage facility. To see a list of local facilities, click here.

I have been accepted to participate in STEP '13 - now what?

You will be mailed an acceptance packet with several forms to return.

Should I register for freshmen orientation; if so, may my parents come?

You should register for freshmen orientation as directed. However, STEP will provide participants their own orientation session (students only). Parents are welcome to attend freshmen orientation at the original scheduled time, but students will not be allowed to accompany them.

For further questions, please contact the STEP Director at step@vt.edu