Scholarship Impact: Emmale McCarter – Virginia Tech Athletics

Emma McCarter She took advantage of every moment of the student-athlete experience she was given while at Blacksburg. Even in her senior year at Thompson Field, the prospect of attending Virginia Tech propelled her to a successful career, long after she hung up her cleats for the last time.

“I want to be known for showing up and working hard,” said McCarter, who graduated earlier this year with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. “I’m more into leading by example, I’m not as vocal on the field as others. But I try to show people that if they come to work every day and put everything they’ve got into it, it’s worth it. It’s gone.”

McCarter’s impact on the fifth-year senior at Virginia Tech women’s soccer has been somewhat unparalleled, even though she doesn’t serve as a vocal leader. After unforeseen circumstances ended the team’s starting goaltending with Charlotte, McCarter volunteered to serve in a position she hadn’t known since her youth soccer days. Thanks to a heroic performance in net by the Hokies’ back line combined with a strong defensive performance, McCarter had a clean sheet in Tech’s 3-0 win over the 49ers. Cheers from her teammates carried the Charleston SC native off the field on their shoulders en route to a cinematic finish.

“I give all the credit to everyone in front of me. I couldn’t have done it without them,” said McCarter, who made five saves in the win. “It was a great experience and definitely a memory I will never forget.”

Even more impressive than McCarter’s clean sheet as a reserve goalkeeper is her ability to balance the demanding demands of her sport and studies. She is currently enrolled in a graduate program in Geotechnical Engineering; She also wants to use her master’s degree as a consultant on infrastructure construction projects analyzing built-up soils.

“It was definitely long days that turned into very long nights,” said McCarter, who recently served as an engineering technician at geotechnical engineering firm S&ME this summer. “But I’ve always done my job. There are some sacrifices. I mean, if you’re dealing with football or school, you have to find time elsewhere to achieve what you want.”

McCarter certainly did a great job during her time in Blacksburg. Currently pursuing her fourth journey, she has grown as a leader and been a vital part of three NCAA Tournament teams at Virginia Tech as she prepares for a life in the exciting field of geotechnical engineering. Looking back on her years in Blacksburg, McCarter doesn’t hesitate to reflect positively on her entire experience.

“I came here to play football and get an elementary education, and I was given the opportunity and I’m very grateful for that,” McCarter said. “It’s every little kid’s dream to play at this level. I’m happy to be here, and Tech chose me and I chose Tech.”