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!!
One of my favorite chants from the football game this past term. I appreciate how Dartmouth has silly traditions that revolve around some of our sport teams. The most obvious during our fall term is our annual football homecoming game. This year it was against Harvard and the stands were filled with great energy and excitement;it was such a close game, all of us were cheering our team on as they battled it out on the field. I played flag football for seven years of my life, so I loved getting the chance to watch a good game again. I went with some of my friends and we all represented our Dartmouth swag!
During the winter term, our attention is now on Hockey! Being from Arizona, Hockey was not super popular while I was growing up so it was a lot of fun going to my first game here at Dartmouth. The game that gets the most attention is our hockey game against Princeton due to our long-standing rivalry. Thankfully I was able to get a great seat because one of my closest friends saved me one. I would recommend getting to the game early if you wish to have a good spot.
At the Princeton v. Dartmouth hockey game!
But what happens if you are not into sports or a crazy athlete? No worries! The sport culture at Dartmouth is as present as you make it. The games I talked about are only the most popular so no need to stress if you don't understand what a touchdown or lighting the lamp means.
The athletes here are also very chill. Two amazing students from my First Year Trip are on sports teams. One plays for the squash team and the other is a pitcher for our baseball team. I know there is a common stereotype that athletes can often be rude or not someone you want to be around—but not at Dartmouth! Dartmouth does a great job at selecting true community members into the woods.
Dartmouth also has a variety of club sports. A perfect mix if you loved playing a sport growing up but not too sure if you want to continue on such a competitive level. Currently a friend from my economics class and I are trying to start an intramural softball team; excited to see some of you potentially on the field next year!
In honor of the superbowl, some of my friends got together in Studio Sudikoff to watch the game!
Overall, the sports culture is not overbearing, but makes an impact during certain times of year which I enjoy as it allows students to really come together during our traditions!
Entering a new environment miles away from home, knowing little to no people at first, can feel daunting. However, Dartmouth's support systems, particularly through the First Generation Office (FGO), have been nothing short of incredible.
