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Emily M. Holt Foerst, PhD

Emily M. Holt Foerst, PhD

Assistant Dean, Academic and Student Affairs
Director, Academic Counseling and Enrichment Services

540-526-2533
Emily_10@vt.edu
Riverside 2 M118-A

Position Responsibilities

In her role overseeing Academic Counseling and Enrichment Services, Dr. Holt Foerst supports the academic success of medical learners by educating on evidence-based cognition and learning strategies. Serving as a co-director for the Profession of Medicine and Identities (POMI) course and VTCSOM coaching program, she leads efforts to support students' reflective practice and professional identity development. She also serves on a variety of committees and provides professional oversight to the Peer Educator Program and wellness-related initiatives.

Professional Background

Dr. Holt Foerst joined the medical school in 2014. Prior to that, she held a progressive career from residential life to academic support services at the University of Missouri - Columbia, where she obtained her Master of Arts degree in Higher and Adult Education. Holt Foerst later worked at Dartmouth College as an assistant dean of first-year and undergraduate students.

A member of Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education, she graduated from Virginia Tech with a Ph.D. in higher education and a certificate in cognition and education.

Research Interests

Dr. Holt Foerst’s research interests are in medical learner motivation, engagement, and achievement.

Education and Training

  • Virginia Tech: PhD
  • University of Missouri - Columbia: MA
  • University of Missouri - Columbia: BA

Additional Positions

  • Assistant Professor, Basic Science Education, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine