This article is part of The Next Step series. While the four years at VMI are designed for cadets to push themselves academically, physically, and mentally to tackle the demands of life at a premiere military college, they also prepare cadets for life after graduation. Whether that life be one in the military or one in the private sector, VMI faculty and staff provide guidance to cadets along their journeys. One department specifically dedicated to that endeavor of post-Institute success is the Office of Career Services. In The Next Step series, we highlight cadets preparing to enter the workforce after graduation, as well as those still in the midst of their cadetship preparing for internships over the summer. 

LEXINGTON, Va. June 26, 2026 — Adrianna Sanders ’26 arrived at Virginia Military Institute with a clear sense of purpose:; she wanted to serve something greater than herself. The psychology major, with a minor in philosophy, from Gainesville, Virginia, will be taking that ambition into her next role after graduation – although she can’t go into a lot of detail.

Sanders will be working for an undisclosed section of the federal government. She was unable to give details of her new position. 

“I have always wanted to do something to help my country ... be part of something bigger ,” she explained. "This job opportunity has now made that possible.” 

Sanders credits VMI’s Office of Career Services in helping her gather the tools to create a competitive edge in entering the workplace after graduation. Over the past two years, that department has helped her refine her resume and create the strongest possible application.   

She worked closely with the team who would ultimately support her own professional journey.  

Sanders not only prepared for her future while at VMI, but she helped others do the same. Sanders served as a cadet ambassador for the Office of Career Services where she was a familiar face for other cadets — working one-on-one with them for career goals, job searches, resume proofing, presentations, and more.  

That preparation, combined with the structure of the VMI experience, gave her a distinct advantage. 

“It has taught me discipline and time management that no other school could have taught me,” she said. 

Beyond the classroom, Sanders found inspiration in the people around her. Surrounded by cadets who shared a common sense of purpose and motivation, she knew she wanted to carry that same environment into her career. 

“Seeing everyone around me all working towards the same goal here at VMI has made me want to also work somewhere where everyone has the same goal and the same amount of motivation,” she said. “It’s important to me.” 

Now, as she looks ahead, Sanders envisions a future rooted in both service and fulfillment. In the next decade, she hopes to continue doing work she is passionate about — serving her country while growing both professionally and personally. 

With VMI on her resume, she believes she entered the job market with a competitive edge with the mindset and discipline to succeed. 

For Sanders, the path forward isn’t just about a job — it’s about answering a call. 

Laura Peters Shapiro
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE