This past Monday, Fork Union Military Academy's College Placement Department gave six cadets the opportunity to visit Hampden-Sydney College for an immersive experience that provided a firsthand look at college academics and campus life.

The day began with a campus tour, followed by the unique experience of sitting in on college courses. Several cadets observed ECON-101: Introduction to Economics, while others attended BIOL-110: Principles of Biology. Experiencing a live college class gave the cadets valuable insight into academic expectations and the dynamic relationship between professors and students.

After class, the cadets explored the Hampden-Sydney campus, visiting dorm rooms, classrooms, the library, academic buildings, and the dining hall. Hampden-Sydney, an all-male college with just under 1,000 undergraduates, is uniquely designed to cater to male students’ learning needs. The classrooms feature specialized furniture such as rolling chairs, lean-back chairs, and mobile desks to enhance focus and engagement during instructional time.

The cadets also met Hampden-Sydney’s Reverend Keith Leach, who shared wise words of advice: "If you don't ask, that's on you. If I don't know, that's on me."

A highlight of the visit was running into FUMA alumnus Justin Fraser (Class of 2023), who is now in his second year at Hampden-Sydney. Justin shared his experiences and encouraged the cadets to make the most of their time at Fork Union as they prepare for their futures.

Overall, the visit left a strong impression on the cadets, providing a meaningful glimpse into college life and the resources available to help them succeed.