I Am VMI: Kevin Garroway ’25

What truly defines Virginia Military Institute are the people. Cadets, faculty, and staff, both past and present, are what make it “No Ordinary College.” I Am VMI showcases the outstanding individuals who have accepted the challenges and embraced the spirit of VMI. Their perspectives provide authentic insights into life at the Institute and the value of this unique military college.

Role at VMI: 1st Class Cadet (Senior), VMI Class of 2025
Major: Civil Engineering
Hometown: Ellicott City, Maryland
Featured Activities: India Co. XO 2024-25 | VMI Army ROTC Ranger Challenge, including Cambrian Patrol Commander
Post-Graduation Plans: Commission, U.S. Army Infantry

Kevin Garroway ’25 wanted a challenge. All it took was one visit to Virginia Military Institute and he could see how different it was from other schools. He was sold.

“My experience has been great. It gives me the opportunity to struggle, but also gives me the resources to overcome,” he said.

The civil engineering major initially started out as a chemistry major. But after taking AP biochemistry in high school, he decided to shift, he explained.

He says he enjoys being in such close proximity to his friends. They work out together, eat together, and hang out.

“I’ve gotten to do some cool things at VMI, but I’m most proud of the Institute when I’m with my friends here,” he said.

He says he’s grown immensely since starting at VMI.

“I feel that, as a rat, I had a lot of people above me who I wanted to be like. When I first started, I recognized that I was at the bottom and would have to earn my place, but I saw where I wanted to be. I had a lot of people who helped me see what it took to get to the places where I wanted to be,” he admitted.

He said the skills he’s gained at the Institute will translate well when he enters the U.S. Army.

“I believe that VMI cadets typically have a different mentality than most,” he said. “We are used to a lot of bad things happening at one time and figuring out a way to overcome them. When bad things happen to peers at different schools, it seems to stop them or at least throw them down. We feel at home in the struggle.

“VMI is not going to magically turn you into the next five-star general, it takes effort,” he continued. “Some people come in and reap the rewards without sowing the seeds. You truly get in what you put out. The opportunities are here, it’s just a matter of if you are willing to go and grab them.”