The Vanguard series highlights cadets of Virginia Military Institute who exemplify promise, perseverance, and the true spirit of leadership. While they may not be the top-ranking students or those in prestigious positions, these individuals' dedication, resilience, and growth embody the essence of being a VMI cadet. By sharing their stories, including the challenges they've faced and overcome, we shine a spotlight on the diverse paths to success at the Institute, proving that leadership and excellence come in many forms. 

LEXINGTON, Va. April 7, 2025 — Writing is something that comes easily for Nickole Chavez ’26. She says she enjoys writing essays, which may seem like an odd thing, but when English and writing is something that comes easily, it’s a no-brainer. Science and math, she’s not a big fan. But, when she finds something she’s passionate about, it’s simple.  

“It’s always been something I’ve excelled at,” she admitted. “I feel like it comes naturally to me.”

It’s a trait that her professors have noticed. Lt. Col. Michelle Iten, associate professor in the Department of English, Rhetoric, and Humanistic Studies, said Chavez is a highly focused, self-disciplined, and determined learner.  

"She prepares fully for each session, and her high level of attention and engagement in class activities show a determination to stay on task and to learn all she can,” Iten explained. “She has the same demanding schedule as her peers, but if she is ever fatigued, I would not know it from her demeanor and level of engagement in class; she is active and attentive from beginning to end. She stands out among her peers in the class with this tough constitution for learning.” 

Chavez is disciplined in her studies; she spends a lot of time in the library until the late hours trying to get ahead.  

“That's mainly how I try to set up my week, just seeing what's coming up soon, getting that done, and then, if there's anything coming up on the weekend, I'll try and get ahead on those assignments during the week.” 

She may not hold rank at Virginia Military Institute, but she tries to stay involved as much as possible. The English major has a minor in Spanish, along with concentrations in literary studies, art history and visual culture, and rhetoric and writing. She’s also the women's soccer team manager and facilitates Spanish group study sessions. 

“I like the school. I like what it stands for, the values. I really try and play into the system as much as I can. I'm just a private and as much as I can, I try to be involved,” she said.

As a 3rd Class cadet, she said she’s seen her growth as a student.  

"I know I need to get my assignments done. I can't stay in bed all day. Being here has helped me become more motivated and determined,” she said.  

Iten explained that Chavez stands out to her for her level-headedness. 

“In addition to having excellent stamina for learning, Nickole also stands out for her level-headedness and stable self-possession. If she encounters a tough spot or problem in her coursework, she remains calm, articulate, and solution-oriented,” she said. “Cadets can, understandably, get rocked off-balance by the demands of their coursework combined with navigating VMI, but not Nickole. I had a corporate career before becoming a professor, and Nickole is exactly the type of person I would have gladly hired for her capacity to stay grounded and articulate in fast-moving, high-pressure conditions.” 

The routine at VMI has been beneficial for Chavez. She said with the set schedule, it has not only benefitted her during her time at VMI, but outside of it.  

“I feel like I'm already on a set schedule. Even when I'm at home, I’m getting my day started early.” 

She said the schedule she and other cadets must keep has helped her become better with time management. 

"There's a lot of stuff here we have to participate in, like practice parades, parades, meetings that we need to go to. I feel like just all that stuff kind of pushes you to manage your time a little bit better. During your day, if you get a break, take advantage of that break,” she said. 

Days can be overwhelming, but Chavez’s outlook remains steady. 

“I just try to take a step back and think about why I'm here, because this school can be stressful,” she said. “I just try to think back on why I'm here and what's my purpose." 

Laura Peters Shapiro
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE