Michael Giovanniello
Hometown
Vienna, VA
(James Madison High School)
Majors
Chinese Language & Culture and Math
Why W&M
Like many of my peers, I spent the majority of my high school career hyper-focused on getting into the best college I could. But when college acceptances rolled in and it was nearly time to make a choice, I came to the startling realization that I didn’t know what defined that vague goal. What makes the best college? Was it the place I’d be happiest, the place where I would learn the most, the place which would best help me realize my future aspirations?
It's a tough question to answer. One that, fortunately, I never had to. After a little soul-searching and a lot of research it became clear that William and Mary swept it in all categories.
Ultimately, I chose William and Mary because of the enriching academic environment, laid-back yet vigorous atmosphere, and depth of opportunity for undergraduate students. It’s safe to say few schools can claim such a high standard of education, but even fewer can claim to match William and Mary’s emphasis on undergraduate studies, be it through research opportunities or the ability to interact intimately with professors. To me, this is the biggest draw. Having those opportunities available means what I get out of my time here is limited only by what I’m willing to give.
With all said and done, the real question to me isn't why William and Mary, but why not?
W&M Activities
- Climate change belief research and honors thesis
- Sailing club
- Appalachian music ensemble (play fiddle, mandolin, and guitar)
- Intramural sports (flag football, soccer, handball, basketball, canoe battleship)
Commercialization of Chinese Buddhist Sites Research
(Spring 2019-May 2020)
- Researched how commercial interests and policy influence the development of economic activities in Buddhist spaces
- Travelled for more than a month to Buddhist sites in six provinces around China, focusing of the four Buddhist mountains of Putuoshan, Wutaishan, Emeishan, and Jiuhuashan.
- Interviewed monks and visitors in Mandarin, collected observational data, and did in-depth research on local, regional, and policy. Currently writing our findings in a paper we hope to publish.
High School Activities
- Co-founder of Grace Notes (performed over 100 concerts for Alzheimer’s patients)
- Co-President of Model UN
- Student Representative for the Town Community Enhancement Commission
- Founder of Ivy Free Vienna Initiative
- Fellow on the John Foust Congressional Campaign
- Co-president of the Ping Pong Club
