Hi Daniel, I'm currently writing my senior thesis on the development of startup communities, specifically focusing on the entrepreneurial ecosystem of Charlottesville, VA, home of your alma mater, the University of Virginia.  As an entrepreneurial person who has spent time in Charlottesville as well as Silicon Valley, I'm interested in your thoughts on what comprises the essence of a startup community.  Where do startup hubs come from?  As a UVA alum, I'm particularly interested in your perspective on how the University and Charlottesville could have better supported you as an aspiring entrepreneur during your college days.  Attached are several questions to generate some conversation

-  How would you characterize the entrepreneurial ecosystem of UVA and Charlottesville?  How is it changing?

-  What are this community’s strengths, and what are our weaknesses?  Characterize the greatest obstacles for Charlottesville to become a vibrant startup hub.

-  Describe your vision for startups in Charlottesville. What does the ideal startup community look like locally? What must happen for C'ville to become a sustainable startup hub that consistently produces high quality entrepreneurial ventures?

-  Please feel free to add anything else that is on your mind.  Are there other individuals who you believe would have thoughts on this subject?  I hope to incorporate as many points of view as possible, so suggestions or referrals are greatly appreciated!