Five questions with Alise Svihla

The SAASS associate director discusses working with the volleyball team on academics, being back at her alma mater and more

May 23, 2018

Editor’s note: Every Wednesday throughout the offseason, we’ll catch up with volleyball support staff for five questions.

Alise Svihla | Associate Director Student-Athlete Academic Support Services

Q: You took over last semester with the volleyball team about halfway through its season. How was that transition?

SVIHLA: “It was a little crazy coming in halfway through the season but the team really welcomed me with open arms, which I truly appreciated! I enjoyed being able to support them as they finished their season and their semester.”

Q: What is like to get back to your alma mater and work for the university you love so much?

SVIHLA: “I have always wanted to come back to Virginia Tech – literally since the day I graduated! Blacksburg is a truly special place and I am so happy that my career path has led me back home. Being able to do what I love at my alma mater is a dream come true. I couldn’t wait to decorate my office – it is so much fun to share my love for Virginia Tech with my student-athletes and recruits.”

Q: Being back in Blacksburg, what's your go-to spot to have some good food?

SVIHLA: “Honestly, my go-to spot is West End! Of course, I love places like The Cellar and Cabo, but there’s really no need to go off-campus when we have the best food right here on campus.”

Q: The past 2017-18 academic year, the team got it done in the classroom boasting more than a 3.3 team GPA. What has it been like working with so many volleyball student-athletes who are on the right track?

SVIHLA: “These student-athletes work so hard, academically and athletically. I have been impressed with their motivation and determination to be successful in the classroom. They push themselves and each other to reach their full potential and have a great mentality when it comes to academics.”

Q: Head coach Jill Wilson states about her players becoming #FutureCEOs. What aspect of that do you see on a daily basis from the academic side with the players?

SVIHLA: “I love Coach’s motto and I really believe that the student-athletes on this team have the drive to become CEOs. In my role, I see them taking care of the little things on a daily basis which helps prepare them for graduation, but more importantly, for their futures.”

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