Billy is a senior majoring in mining and minerals engineering from Brewster, New York. He’s a big fan of live music, the Rocky Mountains, and small towns, but intends on spending as many days as possible being around his friends in Blacksburg before he has to retire from school (He is in a personal vendetta with the G-word).
HCVT: Being on Homecoming Court is a big commitment, when did you decide that this was something you wanted to be a part of?
Billy Thomas: I was actually just trying to get my organization involved in something different about this time last year when I realized that individuals had to apply in the spring. The original person USOA was going to sponsor last year happened to graduate, so I was selected to interview for this year’s Court.
HCVT: What process did you go through to be on Homecoming Court?
BT: There is a brief application and interview process that takes place in the spring semester. Homecoming Court selections are revealed a few days after the interviews take place.
HCVT: What other activities are you involved in around campus?
BT: I am heavily involved in my job with Intramural Sports as an official, a supervisor, and a participant. I am also the President of University Sports Officials Association and the Vice President of Mu Nu Gamma. With USOA, I organize the groups that participate in Big Event and Relay for Life, as well as officiate at local tournaments throughout the year. My favorite activity all year is officiating the Special Olympics when they come to Cassell Coliseum in February.
HCVT: What is your favorite part about being a Hokie?
BT: The best thing about being a Hokie is being to live out the school’s motto, Ut Proism. It is such a simple concept, but the range of people you can reach out to by merely offering a helping hand is astounding. I’ve taken advantage of every opportunity to get involved in the community over the past 3 years and have no regrets.
HCVT: How have you grown as a person at Virginia Tech?
BT: I have learned to understand the importance of responsibility. I feel as responsible for my own happiness as I do for the people around me, so hopefully I can extend that message through my campaign.
HCVT: What are you most excited for about participating in the Homecoming Court?
BT: I am most excited for having the opportunity to get out with my friends and have a good time. We plan on making sure that everyone on campus knows we have as much fun as anyone in Blacksburg and that they are all welcome to join in the excitement.
HCVT: Why should the students vote for you?
BT: The students should vote for me if they think I am Hokie enough to serve as Virginia Tech’s student ambassador. The king and queen are responsible for representing the university at functions on- and off-campus for the next year, so I think the students should focus on that when they vote during homecoming week.