Schools of Enrollment Spotlight Series - School of Education and Human Development (EHD)

1. Can you briefly introduce yourself and your role within the School?

Hi! My name is Stephanie Adamson, and I am the director of admission for the UVA School of Education and Human Development. I have worked in higher education for more than 30 years. I was also a first-generation college student and a transfer student, so helping students navigate their educational pathways is especially meaningful to me.

2. What makes the School unique compared to other institutions?

The School of Education and Human Development, or EHD, is a supportive community offering undergraduate majors that prepare students to improve lives by applying cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research in a wide range of professional settings.

Our programs extend well beyond the traditional classroom. EHD brings together fields such as kinesiology, speech communication disorders, teacher education, and youth and social innovation. Although our students pursue different career paths, they are connected by a shared commitment to creating positive change across education, health, and social systems.

3. How would you describe the School’s culture and learning environment?

Innovative. Research-driven. Compassionate.

Every day, our faculty, staff, and students tackle issues that have a meaningful impact on people and communities, and they take that responsibility seriously. Learning in our classrooms, clinics, and community settings is lively, interactive, and personalized. EHD is a large school with the welcoming, close-knit feel of a much smaller community.

4. What types of students tend to thrive in these programs?

Students who thrive at UVA are intellectually curious, community-minded, and motivated to contribute. We look for students who are prepared to engage both inside and outside the classroom. Strong academic performance and a demonstrated interest in a future field of study or career are good indicators that a student will be successful in our programs.

5. What are some common misconceptions prospective transfer students have about the School?

I wish more prospective transfer students knew how accessible and eager our faculty and staff are to speak with them. We host information sessions, offer virtual advising appointments, and may even review transcripts for students who want a clearer understanding of how their previous coursework fits with our programs. Students do not have to figure out the transfer process on their own, and we encourage them to connect with us early.

6. What is one thing you wish transfer students knew about the School before they started?

Most EHD undergraduates begin taking courses specific to their majors during their third or fourth year at UVA. That is true not only for students transferring from another institution, but also for current UVA students who apply to EHD and change their majors.

Each year, new internal and external transfer students come together to form small, cohesive cohorts. They spend their final years learning alongside one another and graduate prepared to create meaningful change in their chosen fields.

7. What is your go-to Bodo’s order, and where on Grounds would you eat it?

Everyone should try the egg salad on a salted bagel at least once. I’m hooked! I like to grab one and find a comfortable spot on the Lawn where I can people-watch and enjoy the view of UVA’s historic buildings.