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.
Unlocking the Supportive Network: An Extended Guide for International Students at Dartmouth
Q:
For international students: What resources have proved most helpful for you as a Dartmouth student? How have OVIS or other campus departments supported you in your transition to Dartmouth?
A:
If you're an international student considering Dartmouth, you're probably wondering what resources are available to help you navigate this exciting but challenging journey. Trust me, I had the same concerns when I made the leap from Harare, Zimbabwe to Hanover, New Hampshire. So, let's dive in and unpack the wealth of support that Dartmouth provides.
Office of Visa and Immigration Services (OVIS): Your First Stop
If you're like me, coming from Zimbabwe, dealing with visa and immigration issues can be daunting. OVIS is not just a department, but a community of people passionate about helping you make your American educational dream a reality. They provide exhaustive informational packets, one-on-one counseling sessions, and even offer seminars specifically targeted at clearing the fog around the U.S. immigration system. Before even setting foot on campus, I attended a virtual meeting where the OVIS team explained how to prepare for a visa interview. Once here, their quarterly check-ins and newsletters keep me up-to-date with changes in U.S. immigration law.
Academic Advising: More Than Just Course Selection
The beauty of Dartmouth's academic advising lies in its personalized approach. Not only did my advisor help me select courses, but they also guided me through Dartmouth's unique D-Plan, considering my long-term academic goals and potential challenges that could arise from being an international student. They made sure I understood the resources available for academic support, such as free tutoring services, writing centers, and even faculty office hours. Their expertise is specially tuned to understand the educational system's nuances that an international student may find confusing.
International Student Programs and Events: A World in Itself
When I first arrived, I was welcomed by a specialized International Student Orientation program. Here, Dartmouth goes beyond the usual orientation fare. You're briefed about U.S. culture, academic expectations, and even mundane but vital things like how to set up a bank account or use public transport. It was like a crash course in "Surviving and Thriving in the U.S." But the support doesn't stop there. Throughout the year, there are international dinners featuring cuisine from around the globe, monthly international coffee hours, and even trips designed to give you a taste of American culture, from city excursions to nature hikes.
Career Services: Building Your Future
Career services go way beyond just helping you polish your résumé. I was pleasantly surprised by their range of services tailored for international students. From workshops on how to write cover letters and resumes that resonate with U.S. employers to mock interviews with real-time feedback, their support is thorough. Furthermore, they have annual career fairs where international employers come to recruit, and they even have resources to help you understand the U.S. job market's nitty-gritty details.
Identity Clubs: Dartmouth African Students Association (DASA) and Beyond
The Dartmouth African Students Association (DASA) has been more than just a club for me; it's been a family. We hold regular meetings to discuss how to make Dartmouth more inclusive and how to better represent Africa in the broader community. We also collaborate with other identity clubs on events, which has allowed me to learn about other cultures while sharing my own. DASA also holds annual events, like Africa Week, where we showcase African cultures through food, dance, and panel discussions. For someone far from home, having this community has been a cornerstone in making Dartmouth feel like home too.
Library and Research Resources: An Intellectual Paradise
Dartmouth's libraries are not just rooms full of books; they're hubs of academic exploration. Each library often focuses on specific academic areas, offering not just texts but also online databases, periodicals, and even antique manuscripts. As an international student, I've found resources about African politics and history that I hadn't even heard of. Plus, librarians are always willing to guide you through your research journey, whether you're looking for specific data sets or obscure articles. It's a holistic approach to academic support that's unmatched.
The Dartmouth Experience: Crafting Your Unique Journey
Dartmouth's allure doesn't just lie in the individual resources but in how these resources are woven into a tight-knit, supportive community. Departments, centers, and student organizations work in a symbiotic relationship to ensure that each Dartmouth student, especially international students, have a rewarding and inclusive experience. It's a comprehensive ecosystem that helps you not just survive but thrive.
I hope this extended guide gives you a deeper insight into Dartmouth's incredible support network for international students like you and me. See you around campus soon!
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