Mucho gusto! Let's get to the fun stuff first. I love journaling, dancing in the gym, and being outside in some sunshine. I am from Tucson, Arizona and a '28. I am a proud first generation and low-income student who comes from a loving Mexican and Native American family. Aspiring law student, an early riser, and bubbly personality are all some ways to describe me. So before you leave, welcome to Dartmouth! I am Dezstany and I hope you join me on this journey into the woods!
Academic Program
Government or Native American and Indigenous Studies
This course was one of the reasons I chose to apply early decision to Dartmouth! I know, how could one course even influence such a big decision? Hearing Professor Duthu describe cases regarding the dispossession of Native tribes, the cultural tensions that many Native youth experience because of the effects of the Doctrine of Discovery, and economic development issues amongst many Native reservations made me edge out of my seat with excitement. The description did not disappoint because although it is one of my earliest classes, I always find myself running to class to learn something new. Professor Duthu presents in a way that wakes you up, makes you laugh, and encourages you to ask some pretty tough questions about tribal regulations. It has been extremely interesting how "bullets of the past are hitting present targets", meaning that many federal policies that happened decades ago still have very noticeable impacts in Indian Country (land in which tribal members own or previously occupied). I love being able to schedule office hours for any leftover questions. Would definitely recommend it!!
Do Laundry, Pack Phone Charger, and Empty Refrigerator!
My morning started a little early since I wanted to get some laundry done before my computer science exam. My computer science exam was at nine in the morning. Yup, I know pretty early for a Monday but not too bad. Thankfully, I was able to get to Novack, the Starbucks café located at the bottom of the Baker Library, to study a little bit before my exam. After I was done studying, I caught up with a close friend of mine as it was the last time we would be able to see each other before I left.
Looking back, my to-do list would have been a bit longer if I was moving out of my dorm completely. At the end of each term, students at Dartmouth have the option to move into another room if their approval for changing a room was approved from the Housing Service. Students often do not return back to their original room if they requested a roommate switch, need to change rooms for medical or religious reasons, or if they are taking an off term in the upcoming term.
After my computer science exam, I ran over to the Dartmouth Coach. My exam ended at 11:00am and my coach was scheduled to depart at 11:40am. If there is anything you should know about the Dartmouth Coach, it leaves ON TIME! My recommendation is to get there early to ensure you have a comfortable spot for your desired time. I am very grateful to the Financial Aid Office providing low-income students with a free voucher to cover the costs of a trip from Hanover to Boston, or from Hanover to New York City!
I can easily say that I probably would have been extra stressed if it was not for my village that helped me head over to the bus stop. I had to head back to my dorm to pick up my laundry from the washer and dryer; every residential space has a washer and dryer located in the basement of the building. Thankfully laundry is included within your tuition so you do not have to pay extra every time you need to wash your favorite sweatshirt.
As I was leaving my dorm, I was struggling to lock my door as my hands were full. That's when I hear my close friend Oscar appear behind me—talk about perfect timing! He helped me lock my door then we headed over to pick up my other friend. We all walked over to the Coach (the actual way students refer to Dartmouth Coach)! The Coach stops right in front of Rauner, a central location as it is right next to the Green.
Taking my seat on the Coach means that the travels begin! One feature about being in a rural liberal arts school is that it can often add a bit more time to your itinerary, but it is definitely worth it! I just got done with the two hour bus over from Hanover, New Hampshire to the Boston Logan Airport. Logan Airport is the closest airport to New Hampshire.
Stick Season in full effect!
On the drive over, it was obvious how much the seasons were changing. It is currently "Stick Season", a new phrase to me considering I have never experienced the seasons, but it simply refers to the time of year when the leaves fall from the trees and the trees only appear as Sticks. Fun fact, the popular American artist Noah Kahan has a song titled "Stick Season" and is a close reference to Dartmouth as he attended Hanover High School!
Made it to the airport!
My flight is scheduled to leave soon so I will be flying for the next five hours over the country back to the beautiful bright and sunny Arizona. I will be flying into the Phoenix airport where I will be able to see my amazing Tia's ("aunt" in Spanish) family. It is a two hour drive from Phoenix to Tucson, so it usually takes me about half a day to get back home. I'm excited to be home and show you guys what cactuses and beautiful sunsets look like!
A lot of fellow students and friends have asked me the question: "how did you join the People Places Pines team?" Let me tell you how students can join the team!
Dartmouth's dining options are reduced during winterim due to the significantly smaller number of students on campus. Find out about dining options during winterim, from a dietary, logistical, and financial perspective!
In elementary school, I did ballet. In middle school, I tried diving. In high school, I played volleyball. And now, in college, I guess I'm a hockey player! Read on to learn a bit about Dartmouth Club Sports and our Women's Ice Hockey Program!
