Camden Osborne

In describing curiosity, Camden Osborne said, “It is one thing to wonder, but it is another to act on that inquisitiveness. I permit myself to ask questions, test different interests, and discover new experiences.”

In the summer before her junior year, Camden had the opportunity to work as a broadcast news intern. Becoming an on-camera reporter had been her dream since high school. Camden said, “The stars truly seemed to be aligned that summer. Until I realized I hated it.

“I was left discouraged and defeated, but I was thankful I could detect the light in the situation: I would not be stuck in a career I would resent. One of my proudest moments was coming to this realization and making changes in my last two years that have put me in a prime position for my future. I was able to shift my academic focus, complete an internship in an entirely different field, and secure a full-time job before the end of my senior fall semester. Even now I am not sure exactly what my future holds, but I am proud to know that I can adapt and succeed in whatever surprise undoubtedly comes next.”

Camden will graduate this spring with a degree in communication, a major in multimedia journalism, a minor in theatre arts, and a cognate in marketing management. She will work for Freddie Mac, focusing on affordable housing, bringing knowledge and resources to help people fulfill their dreams of becoming homeowners. She said, “I never envisioned myself working in this industry or taking on this type of role, but I am so excited to apply what I've learned at Virginia Tech to a purpose-driven position.”

Camden was part of the Leadership and Social Change Residential College during her first two years at Virginia Tech, an experience that was pivotal for her. She said, “Every time I walk through that side of campus, I am flooded with memories big and small. The strangers I met on my hall on the first day have become the ones I spend my free time with, live with off-campus, visit over breaks, and value more than anything. It was in this place and with these people that I've had my deepest belly laughs, shed my hardest tears, shared every high and low of life, and created unbreakable friendships.”

One of the organizations Camden played a vital role in is Homecoming Board and she served as president in 2021. Her nominator said, “In the middle of the pandemic, Camden worked hard with other leaders, thinking outside the box to ensure Hokies could still enjoy Homecoming, even though it felt a bit different.”

Her nominator went on to say, “Much like Alexander Hamilton, Camden is not easily satisfied. She continues to ask, to push, to grow. Her ability to remain curious, to seek better, to try more remain her greatest assets. This institution has been changed by Camden's energy, light, and curiosity. I cannot wait to see how she continues to change folks outside of Virginia Tech as well!”

I am proud to present the Aspire! Award for CURIOSITY to Camden Osborne.