Harbalbeen Rai

Bearing a deep commitment to self-awareness and ethical decision-making, Harbalbeen Rai integrates her values into meaningful action.

As an Orientation Leader with New Student and Family Programs, her nominator said “Harbal was instrumental in facilitating events and initiatives that promote inclusivity, social justice, and sense of belonging. She is not afraid to ask questions and implement feedback into her

decision-making.

“She was able to tell her own story while facilitating ExperienceVT sessions that empowered incoming students to share their own experiences.”

Harbal sets a powerful example of honesty, accountability, and a sense of responsibility as an Honor Council Delegate. Even in challenging situations, her ethical principles and integrity earn trust.

She also lives out her compassion and commitment to social responsibility as a member of a local rescue squad. Harbal contributes to a community of care and makes a positive impact on the lives of those with emergency medical needs.

Her nominator writes, “Harbal approaches her studies with a sense of purpose and dedication, always seeking to expand her knowledge and understanding” and “invests in self-reflection to align her academic pursuits with her values.”

A second-year biological science major in the College of Science, Harbal plans to become an emergency medicine physician so that she can improve medical conditions in underdeveloped regions.

Discussing her journey of finding a sense of belonging at Virginia Tech, Harbal shared an insightful observation that individuals often form connections through shared hardships. This realization came to her as she made her initial college friendships while attending office hours for organic chemistry.

She carries that bond forward, sharing “The highlight of my college experience has been working as a TA for organic chemistry – experiencing other students making friends as I did, helping to overcome the challenges and showing enjoyment of organic chemistry.”

Harbal has seamlessly woven her desire to assist those facing challenges into her roles, both in supporting student development and learning through the Honor Court process and serving as an Orientation Leader.

Sharing a lesson from her mother, Harbal said, “Achievements are great, but the strength you gain from trying to earn those achievements is what makes you a stronger person.”

For her commitment to self-discovery and ethical decision-making in her own life and for guiding and inspiring others to realize their own values, I am pleased to present the Aspire! Award for PURSUE SELF-UNDERSTANDING and INTEGRITY to Harbalbeen Rai.