Why Lynchburg Became their Home

By Vannon Lail - Media writing student, University of Lynchburg                  20 March 2026

The university became home for many students because it offered something they didn't expect: a place where they felt truly seen before they even finished unpacking.

Students say Lynchburg became their home because of the tight-knit and close community, along with supportive professors and a welcoming campus culture. Students experiences reflect a vital pattern of change, finding belonging and not just through the academics alone, but through the relationships and connections they build once they arrive.

Share your own experience of finding belonging at Lynchburg

Zion Wilson, sophomore, said, “The moment I knew Lynchburg was the right choice for me was when I made a lot of really cool friends that I probably wouldn't have met anywhere else. I'm still best friends with a lot of the people I met during my orientation; they made me feel seen!”

Stories like these can really show how powerful a story and connection can shape a students lynchburg experience.

Michael Tock, Junior commuter student, said, “I knew Lynchburg was the choice for me when the head of the theatre department, Jeffery Wittman, went out of his way to come and see my senior musical in High School. It showed me how someone cared for me through genuine love. He made me feel wanted.”

Tock's experience is just one example of how personal Lynchburg is. It shows how faculty go beyond the classroom.

Zach Bennett, who is an Alumni and Admissions Counselor, said, “I think the biggest aspects of campus life that made an impact on me as a student was the close community found at the University. I was not only a student-athlete, but I was also a member of various organizations across campus. Each one of these experiences provided me with a group of friends that helped establish a sense of community on campus, ultimately allowing me to feel at home”.

Here is a link where you can see why this is home:

Home | University of Lynchburg

Sqeduelle a tour to see how students are experiencing campus life!

Zachary Bennet Phone: 1-804-481-6354 bennett_zw@lynchburg.edu

Zion Wilson Phone: 804-477-2402  Instagram: @Zithe.sciguy

Michael Tock Phone: (434)-818-2263  Instagram: @tiringwheat4474

Image credit: Lynchburg.edu (photography department)