Ola! Welcome to my Dartmouth journey. I'm Adrian, a '25 from Harare, Zimbabwe. With an insatiable thirst for investing, finance, and nature, I'm excited to dive into a major that combines all four passions—perhaps a modified economics major? The possibilities are endless! When I'm not tackling problem sets or immersed in "Things Fall Apart," I'm out and about on campus, discovering hidden gems and capturing countless memories on my phone. Join me as I embark on this incredible adventure!
Academic Program
Economics and African and African American Studies
This was a course that exceeded my expectations and left an enduring impression, serving as an important introduction to the captivating world of calculus. As someone initially hesitant about delving into this mathematical realm, I was pleasantly surprised by the immense value and personal growth it offered. Through thought-provoking problem sets and engaging class discussions, I honed my critical thinking skills and gained a deep appreciation for the beauty and practicality of mathematical concepts within the calculus framework. The supportive community of dedicated instructors and enthusiastic classmates played a vital role in my journey, providing guidance and encouragement as I navigated this new academic terrain. Math 8 not only ignited my passion for analytical thinking but also equipped me with the tools to apply mathematical principles in real-world scenarios.
ECON 1 became a truly transformative and enlightening experience within my academic journey, resonating deeply as a student with roots in Zimbabwe, a country navigating its path in the realm of development. This course fully immersed me in the intricate world of resource utilization, income distribution, and the intricate interplay between economics and society, allowing me to witness its direct relevance to the economic landscape of my beloved home country. Through its comprehensive exploration of topics such as industrial organization, labor economics, and international trade, I gained invaluable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that Zimbabwe and similar economies face. This course not only served as an eye-opening introduction to the captivating field of economics but also reignited and fortified my unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing issues that confront my nation and the broader global community. It has instilled in me an unyielding determination to contribute to positive change and foster sustainable development in Zimbabwe and beyond, serving as a guiding light in my pursuit of economic transformation and social progress.
This course took me on a captivating and deeply personal journey as someone of African heritage. It explored the historical mapping of race onto Africa, allowing me to engage with the arguments of historians and gain profound insights into the complexities of racial identity. Analyzing motion pictures as primary sources, I discovered the influential role of cinema in perpetuating racial othering and reinforcing colonial agendas. This transformative course challenged my preconceptions, deepening my understanding of the intersection between race, Africa, and representation. Equipped with the tools to critically analyze and challenge stereotypes, I feel empowered to contribute to inclusive dialogue and promote understanding in our shared human experience.
SummerOff-Term (Hanover, NH)
For my freshman summer, I made the deliberate choice to take a well-deserved break in Hanover. After a rigorous academic year filled with learning and growth, I felt the need to recharge and rejuvenate before diving into the next chapter of my academic career. It was a time for self-care, reflection, and exploration. I embraced the opportunity to indulge in personal hobbies, spend quality time with loved ones, and embark on new adventures.
Beyond the surface, this course delved into Africa's connections to diverse African Diasporas and the notion of mobility, providing a deeper understanding of the continent. Throughout the course, we critically examined the production and contestation of African cultural, racial, and political identities. The moment of independence for many African nation-states served as a pivotal point, allowing us to analyze economics, race, politics, and artistic expressions. Concepts like "tradition" and "modernity" were thoroughly explored, uncovering representations of Africa and the complexities of commodification. Witnessing the range of cultural and political responses was inspiring. The course not only broadened my understanding of Africa's rich tapestry but also ignited my passion for African studies. It empowered me with a critical lens to analyze and contribute to ongoing conversations surrounding Africa's narratives and its global significance.
AAAS 87.09, "African Popular Culture," was a captivating and deeply personal journey that immersed me in the vibrant world of African popular cultures. This course offered a comprehensive exploration of cultural, economic, and philosophical aspects, all within a global socio-historical framework. From the beats of Ghanaian music to the narratives of Nigerian literature and the rhythm of South African dance, I was captivated by the diverse and expressive works that shape African identities. Engaging in lively discussions and delving into the influential works of artists like Fela Kuti, I gained a profound understanding of how these creative mediums contribute to the production and contestation of Africanness. The course fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment, bringing together students from different backgrounds and inspiring meaningful conversations. It ignited my passion for uncovering the intricacies of cultures and left me with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of African popular cultures. This course not only expanded my knowledge but also sparked a personal connection to my heritage and strengthened my commitment to celebrating and sharing the richness of African cultures with the world.
This course opened my eyes to a whole new perspective on the challenges faced by developing countries, offering a profound understanding of the global economic landscape. As someone intimately familiar with the realities of a developing country, ECON 24 resonated deeply with my personal experiences. It delved into the underlying reasons behind pervasive issues like extreme poverty, hunger, limited access to education, gender inequality, environmental degradation, high fertility rates, and child labor that afflict many developing nations. Through the lens of economic analysis, I gained invaluable insights into the complex factors that shape decision-making processes in these contexts, including the roles of markets, organizations, policies, and institutions. This course not only expanded my knowledge of development economics, but it also fueled my sense of purpose and determination to contribute to positive change. It reinforced my belief in the potential for transformative solutions and empowered me to actively work towards creating a better future for developing countries like Zimbabwe and their people.
SummerOff-Term (Harare, Zimbabwe)
As an international student, my sophomore summer presented an exciting opportunity to return to my home country, Zimbabwe, and engage in a remarkable social impact project I designed called JEKA. This initiative was made possible through the renowned Davis Projects for Peace Program, generously sponsored by the Dickey Center for International Understanding. JEKA specifically focused on addressing the pressing issue of substance use and abuse among Zimbabwe's youth, aiming to empower them with the necessary skills and knowledge to create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Throughout the summer, we provided comprehensive support by equipping young individuals with essential 21st-century skills such as computer programming and entrepreneurship. Additionally, we facilitated educational sessions that highlighted the adverse consequences of substance use and misuse. Witnessing the personal growth and transformation of the participants was incredibly rewarding, and I was grateful for the invaluable support and resources provided by Dartmouth. This experience solidified my belief in the transformative power of grassroots initiatives and community-driven projects. I left the summer with a strengthened commitment to making a lasting impact, armed with the knowledge that collective efforts can bring about positive change.
Faith, Friendship, and Finding Home: My Journey with Cru at Dartmouth
When I first arrived at Dartmouth as an international student in the fall of 2021, I was full of excitement, but I was also a little nervous. This was my first time in America, and my first time leaving Zimbabwe, my home of nearly 20 years, where I had built a lifelong network of family, friends, and neighbors. I knew I wanted to find and build a similar support system at Dartmouth — a community where I could grow academically, personally, and, most importantly, spiritually.
"For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." — Matthew 18:20 (English Standard Version)
As a practicing Christian, my faith has always been the foundation of my life. Honestly, I would not be here at Dartmouth—writing this blog post—if it weren't for the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God. Those who know my story can testify to that. Coming into college, I didn't want to lose that essential part of my identity. I wanted to deepen it.
A picture taken from one of Cru's Winter Conferences
Cru (short for "Campus Crusade for Christ") is a global Christian movement dedicated to helping students explore their faith, grow spiritually, and build lasting friendships. It began in 1951 at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), when Bill Bright and his wife, Vonette, felt God calling them to invest their lives in helping college students encounter the Gospel—a call confirmed one late night while Bill was studying for a Greek exam. Today, Cru is active on more than 2,300 college campuses across the U.S. and in over 190 countries around the world.
The heart of Cru remains simple yet powerful: creating spaces where students, wherever they are in their faith journey, can ask honest questions, seek truth, and experience authentic community anchored in the love of Christ. Though Cru began as a ministry focused on college students, its reach has expanded to serve families, members of the military, athletes, and professionals around the world, always with the same mission of making Jesus known. The beauty of Cru is that you do not have to have everything figured out to belong. You do not even need to call yourself a Christian. Just like Jesus, Cru extends a warm welcome to everyone.
Cru at Dartmouth
A group picture of Dartmouth's Cru members in Collis 303 during Cru Connect
At Dartmouth, Cru remains one of the most welcoming and authentic communities I have ever experienced.
Every Friday night, students gather for Cru Connect, a time of worship, Bible study, honest conversations, and heartfelt fellowship usually held in Collis 303. During my time here, this was one of my favorite ways to end a busy week: by stepping away from the rush of college life and being reminded that faith and academics are not competing forces but can strengthen each other.
In addition to Cru Connect, students meet throughout the week for small group Bible studies, digging deeper into scripture and supporting one another through life's challenges. There are also opportunities for one-on-one discipleship, where older students or Cru advisors mentor and walk alongside you through your faith journey.
Serving with Cru Around the World
Cru's summer missions are designed for college students and young adults to experience transformative service experiences.
Beyond Dartmouth's campus, Cru offers countless ways for students and graduates to serve Christ and make an impact around the world. Through short-term mission trips, students can volunteer abroad in places like Medellín, Colombia, engaging in campus outreach, Malawi, supporting women's health initiatives, or Kyoto, Japan, partnering with local ministries to reach university students. For those feeling called to a deeper commitment, Cru's one-year full-time internships provide opportunities to serve at the organization's headquarters in Orlando, Florida, or in international locations such as Central Asia and East Asia. Cru also creates opportunities to engage with students from colleges across the United States through retreats and national conferences, reminding you that you are part of a much larger family of believers.
If you feel called to even longer-term service, Cru also offers career opportunities for full and part-time missionaries and professionals in areas ranging from campus ministry to humanitarian work to digital outreach. Through the Go International program, students and graduates can live abroad, building ministries that have an eternal impact in places like Thailand, France, and North Africa. No matter your passions, gifts, or background, Cru provides a way to serve — all while deepening your own walk with Christ and bringing His love to the nations.
Attending Cru's 2022 Winter Conference in Denver, Colorado
Cru's 2022 Winter Conference in Denver, Colorado
During my sophomore winter break, with the financial assistance from Dartmouth's Cru Chapter, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Cru's Winter Conference in Denver, Colorado, which was not only my first Cru conference but also my first time visiting Colorado and exploring another part of the U.S. Gathering with students from all different backgrounds and countries — and yes, some from Zimbabwe — I was immersed in powerful worship sessions, inspiring sermons, and genuine fellowship that reignited my passion for Christ. The conference gave me a safe space to reflect deeply on my spiritual journey, to wrestle honestly with my faith, and to discover fresh ways to live out God's mission in my daily life. Standing in a room filled with college students from across the country, all worshiping one Savior with one heart, was one of the most humbling and transformative moments I have ever experienced. The unity, purpose, and encouragement I encountered during those days in Denver continue to shape my walk with Christ.
Why Cru Matters
College life can be overwhelming. Classes, clubs, job applications, internships — there is always something demanding your attention. In the middle of all that, as a believer, it can be easy to forget who you are and whose you are. But Cru reminded me that I am not meant to do life alone. God designed us for community — to encourage one another, to grow together, and to point each other back to Him when the noise of life gets loud. At Dartmouth, Cru has been that community for me: a place where I could ask difficult questions without fear of judgment, a place where I could celebrate moments of spiritual growth, and a place where I could find support when life felt overwhelming.
If you are still looking or praying for a reason to say yes to Dartmouth and you are passionate about your faith, curious about Christianity, or simply looking for genuine friendships that go deeper than surface-level conversations, Cru could be it.
If you want to learn more beyond what this post covers, feel free to get in touch with:
Dartmouth works to provide a variety of accommodations that suit each person's individual needs. Curious as to how housing accommodations work, whether they be for medical or religious reasons? Read on.
One of my greatest privileges at Dartmouth has been learning from Professor Ed. Miller of the History and Asian Studies departments. Read on to learn more about why he is my favorite professor!
