Junior from Caracas, Venezuela
Major: Management with a concentration in entrepreneurship in the College of Business and Economics
Campus Involvement: Midfielder for the Radford men’s soccer team, member of Beta Gamma Sigma, Quest Assistant
While Luis Grande is far from his native country of Venezuela, Radford University’s close-knit and friendly community embraced him immediately. Grande committed to Radford without ever setting foot on campus; however, he seamlessly transitioned into student life thanks to his affiliation with the soccer team and the close interaction he has with his professors. Recruited to serve as a midfielder, Grande soon discovered that Radford University offered an environment that would allow him to reach his professional ambitions – both on and off the field.
A management major, Grande is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma – a business fraternity – and tries to take advantage of the one-on-one faculty attention he receives. He believes his education and the opportunities he has to collaborate with his professors are preparing him to achieve his goal of being an executive for a multinational company.
Meanwhile, his participation on the soccer team netted him the title of All-State Performer in 2011 and is giving him the experience he needs to achieve his other dream: to play soccer professionally.
“Playing soccer at a high level for Radford is preparing me to one day play for my Venezuelan National Team and on a Major League Soccer or European club team,” he said. “That’s what’s great about Radford. If you’re willing to take advantage of all the opportunities the university offers, you can shape your life however you want.”
A passionate advocate for Radford University, Grande also participates in campus life by serving as a Quest assistant during new student orientation. There he is able to share with incoming students his belief that Radford offers the perfect blend of a close-knit campus and high-quality academics.
“Everyone is so friendly, and on top of that, I can get a great education while also having the opportunity to compete in the sport I love,” said Grande. “I love RU!”
