Virginia
Paid college internships: A smart way Virginia can ease its youthful brain drain – Virginia Mercury
Virginia needs to keep the Breyana Stewarts who are graduating from our colleges and universities from taking their brains, their energy and their winning personalities to other states.
In May, Stewart will become the first in her family’s line of descent to earn a degree when she graduates from Virginia Commonwealth University. At age 23, she’s smart, optimistic, instantly likable, and looking for a job where she can soon put her new bachelor’s degree in communications to good use.
She is a candidate for a permanent, fulltime, post-commencement job within Virginia. But she plans to search elsewhere, too.
“I just applied for my first communications job,” she said over a latte in a Shockoe Bottom coffee shop this week. “I think it’s a shot in the dark because I haven’t graduated yet, but I want to get the ball rolling.”
Too many newly minted graduates from Virginia’s institutions of higher learning are finding their futures outside the commonwealth, and it’s creating a demographic brain drain that could have economic consequences. That bothers Kirk Cox.
If the name sounds familiar, it’s because he was the 55th speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates from 2018 to 2020. A Republican and a career educator who represented Colonial Heights for 32 years in the House, Cox now heads the Virginia Business Higher Education Council, a nonprofit, nonpartisan coalition of leaders from the state’s business community and higher education institutions.
In an interview earlier this month, Cox was blunt about challenges Virginia faces from other states that are magnets for early-career professionals and recent college grads. And he’s advancing a solution that makes sense: paid internships that build bridges to connect Virginia college students — particularly diverse students and those of limited economic backgrounds — with relevant experience in their fields of study, which can lead to jobs here after college.
“They’ll tend to stay if they get a really good internship. If they don’t, they’re looking for other places to go,” Cox said. “The statistics show — and I think the kids will tell you —[that] if they get a meaningful internship, it’s much more likely that they get offered a job, [and] they’re much more likely to stay.”
The “stay” part has become a problem in the past decade. During the latter 20th century though the first decade of this one, educated, upwardly mobile, young professionals flocked to Virginia for jobs in such numbers that it created uncontrolled suburban sprawl, especially in Northern Virginia. That trend is now in reverse as more of today’s smart, youthful and affluent cohort are leaving for opportunities in other states than are moving here.
One way to track arrivals from other states vis-à-vis departures is Internal Revenue Service year-to-year personal income tax returns. The IRS aggregates data on the number of returns filed each year from within all 50 states and the District of Columbia and the number of individuals represented in them. Recent year-over-year comparisons do not inspire confidence for Virginia.
Thirty years ago, almost 15,000 more people moved into Virginia than left, according to the IRS data for tax years 1994-95.
Returns from tax years 2020-21, however, show that almost 9,300 more left Virginia than moved in. There were 243,217 departures compared to 233,924 come-heres. Twenty-seven states took more people from Virginia than migrated here from those states. Florida alone took in 10,584 more people from Virginians than came to Virginia from Florida, roughly the equivalent of Essex County.
Hamilton Lombard, the chief demographer for the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia, said the trend has hit Northern Virginia the hardest. Hampton Roads has also lost more than it gained, he said, but not as sharply. Smaller, less urbanized areas of Virginia, by contrast, have enjoyed net gains, especially since the pandemic popularized widespread use of working virtually from home, Cooper Center research shows.
Another worrisome omen for colleges and businesses in need of their graduates is that enrollment still struggles with pandemic disruptions.
National Student Clearinghouse Research Center data from last September shows that undergrad enrollment ticked marginally upward for the first time since the start of the pandemic, but freshman enrollment dipped by 3.6%.
That may be because teens see some recent college grads moving back home with their parents, working gigs as rideshare drivers, pizza deliverers and wait staff to repay college loans and seek work in their degree field. Short-term undergraduate certificate programs spiked by nearly 10% compared with a 3.6% jump in associate degrees and just under 1% for bachelor’s degrees, according to the NSCRC.
The idea of paid internships has done the nearly impossible: united Democratic and Republican policymakers. It’s no mean feat to get Senate President Pro Tem Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, and her frequent nemesis, Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin, literally reading from the same script as they did in this recent promotional video.
At the behest of the VBHEC and its development campaign, Growth4Va, the program is poised to receive either $24 million (under the Senate version of the budget) or $29 million (in the House version) from the state through June of 2026. Some of that will help small businesses pay for interns.
(Some disclosure is in order here. This initiative is advised by McGuireWoods Consulting, a public policy advisory services firm where I was a senior advisor for more than five years. I did not perform work for the VBHEC.)
Let’s put aside the retail politics as well as the commercial and macroeconomic considerations. Paid internships for all Virginia students stands on its own egalitarian merit because of the way it can improve the lives of kids like Breyana Stewart.
She knew she wanted to work in communications since her elementary school days in Hampton Roads, when she was an anchor of the school’s closed-circuit morning newscast.
“My mom always advocated for me to go to college,” Stewart said. “She was always saying how important it is to get a degree. I knew that when I started college that I would have to support myself … so I’ve always worked since I’ve gone to college.”
Now in her final semester, she works two jobs — one as a receptionist at a clinic and another as a promotions assistant at Radio One’s Richmond stations.
But the big differentiator for her career path is the three months she spent last summer as an intern at the Hodges Partnership, a marketing, PR and media relations shop in Richmond.
“Being able to have an internship that paid me for my time was definitely necessary,” she said. Because of that, she was able to cover her rent in Richmond during that time.
Might she wind up where she interned? Who knows. Stewart said she loved her time at Hodges and stayed in touch with the friends and colleagues she made there. Regardless, just listing experience with such an esteemed company on her résumé gives her an edge wherever her search leads her.
It’s time for Virginia to make paid internships accessible to any kid willing to learn and put in the work the way she did and — with a little luck — keep more of our most promising prospects home.
Bedford, Virginia
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Hiking the Peaks of Otter is a true Virginia treasure. It offers some of the most dramatic views in the state.
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Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is a fantastic way to take in mountain views, enjoy the winding roads, and stop at overlooks and trails along the way.
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Perched beside Abbott Lake and surrounded by mountain scenery, the Peaks of Otter Lodge offers unmatched access to the Peaks of Otter trails.
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History comes to life at the moving and meticulously designed National D-Day Memorial, which honors the lives of those who participated in the D-Day invasion of Normandy.
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Set in a beautifully restored former train station, Liberty Station serves up a menu of elevated American classics with a Southern twist.
As someone who has lived in Virginia for more than 23 years and visited all 50 U.S. states, I keep coming back to Bedford. Despite my travels—and even stints living in other states—there’s something timeless and grounding about this town. From its stunning hiking trails and historical landmarks to its cozy restaurants and mountain views, Bedford has quietly become one of my favorite hidden gems in Virginia.
If you love hiking, diving into history, or are just seeking for a peaceful getaway with great local food, you’ll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with Bedford, too.
Best Hotels & Lodges
Visit Virginia
A lounge area inside th Peaks of Otter Lodge.
Peaks of Otter Lodge
Surrounded by nature and located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 86, Peaks of Otter Lodge is ideal for hikers and anyone craving a peaceful mountain escape. Visitors can expect lakefront views, on-site dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and access to scenic trails.
Graham Ordinary
For a more rustic escape, Graham Ordinary is a historic mountain lodge in the picturesque countryside nearby. The King Suites are thoughtfully styled to reflect the property’s cozy, mountain charm, and the quiet setting creates a true sense of retreat. For those wanting to fully immerse themselves in nature, the lodge also features several campsite options.
The Forget-Me-Not B&B
A charming bed-and-breakfast in the heart of Bedford, this lovingly restored property offers one cozy room, personal touches, a large front porch, and a tasty breakfast.
Best Things to Do
Visit Virginia
Visitors observe the The National D-Day Memorial.
Hike the Peaks of Otter.
The Peaks of Otter will always be my favorite hiking spot in Virginia. I’ve explored its trails more times than I can count and in every season—and it never loses its magic. Whether you’re hiking Sharp Top, Flat Top, or Harkening Hill, there’s a trail for every experience level.
For me, it’s about more than just the views. It’s where my husband and I went on our first date, and a year later, it’s where he proposed. I love returning to relive those memories and soak in the panoramic views of Virginia’s countryside.
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Winding through the mountains just outside town, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. With its countless overlooks, peaceful picnic spots, and picture-perfect photo ops, this route offers jaw-dropping views year-round.
Take a day trip to Smith Mountain Lake.
Smith Mountain Lake, just a 35-minute drive from Bedford, is well worth the trip. Often called the Lake Tahoe of the East, it’s stunning and packed with activities. Nicole Johnson, director of tourism at Destination Bedford, highlighted that there are endless ways to experience this beautiful destination, whether it’s fishing, renting a boat for a day on the water, or hiking and camping.
Visit the National D-Day Memorial and the Bedford Boys Tribute Center.
With Bedford suffering the highest per-capita D-Day losses in the nation, the town holds a deep connection to World War II history. The powerful outdoor memorial honors the sacrifices of D-Day soldiers through moving sculptures, informative displays, and peaceful gardens. It’s both educational and emotional—an essential visit for history lovers and anyone wanting to understand Bedford’s story on a deeper level.
Johnson suggests starting at the National D-Day Memorial, then visiting the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. She explained it’s a meaningful way to learn about the personal stories of these men and the sacrifices they made for the community. “The Tribute Center features many of their personal belongings and is located in Bedford’s historic downtown,” she shared.
Spend time at local orchards.
At different times of the year, you can pick apples, berries, or peaches at local orchards in Bedford. Johnson’s Orchards and Gross Orchard are fantastic places to not only pick your own fruit, but also purchase fresh, local produce.
Best Restaurants
Bridge Street Cafe
Start your morning at Bridge Street Cafe, where locals love the bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and tasty lattes.
Town Kitchen & Provisions
Perfect for lunch, this charming sandwich shop is a hit, thanks to its flavorful bánh mì, falafel, and irresistible pies. It’s a casual spot with standout options.
Liberty Station
A Bedford staple and local favorite, Liberty Station is known for its upscale country fare. Signature dishes include prime rib, crab dip, and French onion soup. It’s a must-visit for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Best Time to Visit
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View of mountains from Peaks of Otter Lodge.
While you can’t go wrong with a visit to Bedford during any season. Johnson, said, “Spring is a beautiful time to visit, with everything in bloom and vibrant shades of green spreading across the landscape. The colorful scenery set against the Peaks of Otter makes for a stunning backdrop. Late April through June is an ideal time to experience it, before the busier summer and fall seasons.”
How to Get There
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A family stops at a lookout along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The nearest airport to Bedford is Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH), located about 25 minutes away. For more flight options, Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) is another convenient choice, just 40 minutes from town. If you’re flying into the area, plan to rent a car. Bedford’s small-town charm and surrounding sights are best explored by driving.
How to Get Around
The best way to explore Bedford is by car. While the downtown area is walkable, many of the best hiking trails, restaurants, and scenic spots require a drive. Ride-shares, like Uber and Lyft, are available, but very limited.
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
LSU baseball entered Sunday with a chance to advance to Omaha with a win vs. West Virginia in Game 2. Another night of offensive firepower accomplished that goal, and the Tigers are headed back to the College World Series with a 12-5 win.
LSU was the road team in this one, taking the bats in the top of the first. The Tigers scored a run after Derek Curiel led off the game with a double, he advanced to third on a flyout by Ethan Frey, and then scored on a fielder’s choice to make it 1-0 Tigers. Anthony Eyanson was the man on the mound for LSU. He worked a scoreless first inning, and LSU gave him some run support in the top of the second.
LSU scored five runs in the top of the second inning. Steven Milam hit a three-RBI double, Jake Brown hit an RBI single, and Jared Jones hit an RBI single to increase the Tigers’ lead to 6-0.
The bats on both sides got quiet for a few innings until the bottom of the fourth inning. West Virginia scored three runs in the bottom of the inning to cut the LSU lead to 6-3. In the bottom of the fifth inning, the Mountaineers would tack on another run to cut the lead to 6-4.
In the bottom of the sixth inning, Eyanson walked the first hitter he faced and was pulled from the game for Cooper Williams. Eyanson finished the night after five full innings of work. He gave up four runs on five hits, seven strikeouts, and three walks.
An error, a walk, and a hit by pitch started the top of the seventh for the Tigers and forced a pitching change by West Virginia. Chris Stanfield made the Mountaineers pay with a two-RBI single to give LSU an 8-4 lead. An error then scored Curiel to make it 9-4.
Milam hit an RBI double to score Frey and make it 10-4 Tigers. Jake Brown then hit a two-run blast to dead center to increase the lead to 12-4.
Williams remained in the game in the bottom of the seventh inning. In the bottom of the eighth inning, West Virginia scored another run on a solo homer to cut the lead to 12-5. Williams walked the next batter he faced, and he was pulled from the game.
Chase Shores would enter to pitch for the Tigers. Shores remained in the game to pitch the ninth inning, and he finished the game off and sent the Tigers to Omaha with a 12-5 victory!
With the win, LSU advances to Omaha to face off against a familiar foe, the Arkansas Razorbacks. LSU faced Arkansas during the season and took two of three from them, but anything can happen in Omaha. The date and time for that game are to be announced later.
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