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!!
Get your pair of gloves and your jacket ready to go because it is starting to get a little chilly in Hanover (at least for me). Coming from Arizona, I am not super used to the early sunset and the cold days. However, there is definitely a beauty within seeing the leaves fall and the little flurries but an adjustment I'm still figuring out!
Thankfully, it was sunny today, which made it an even better day for Harfest! Harfest is hosted on a different day every year yet always showcases some amazing food and a nice opportunity to get outside of campus. Thankfully, Dartmouth provided transportation, so we didn't have to worry. It is about a 30 minute walk from campus to the Organic Farm.
Stepping off the bus, it was beautiful to see the life that was on O-Farm (the name Dartmouth students actually call the Organic Farm by). Not to mention, there was live music and baby goats!
The goats were super friendly and wandered around the farm. After walking around a little bit, I picked up some popcorn! It was super delicious, being completely honest it was my first time trying maple popcorn. The maple flavor in general is super popular around Dartmouth. I would definitely recommend trying all new things, especially the food that Dartmouth throws at you—maple is not a flavor I would have had back home and can safely say it's starting to become one of my new favorites.
There was not only maple popcorn, but maple donuts too! Some other food options included empanadas, fresh farm pizza, and arepas! Sadly, we got there a little late so we were not able to get them—nonetheless, I would recommend coming early if you ever get the chance! Thankfully my friends and I still had a great time!
Shoutout to Manya—one of my gym buddies and fellow '28—and Oscar, who is also a blogger!
Across from the maple treats was freshly pressed apple cider. I was able to see my trip leader from my First Year Trip!
Hey Reva!!
After that, my friend and I went down to pick some corn! It was nice being outside in some fresh air. During finals season, in addition to cold days, it can be a little hard to be out into nature. However, that has been something I really love about Dartmouth—the huge effort to ensure that all their students at least have the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities.
Before leaving the farm I wanted to get a close picture of one of my favorite murals (shown below):
This mural honors the work that migrant workers and their families put into farms in the Upper Valley. As a Mexican American student this acknowledgment is very beautiful and is an honorable tribute to all that happens behind the scenes of the produce we consume. I am lucky to be a member of Fuerza, an organization on campus that focuses on migrant outreach.
Overall, I have considered myself blessed to be able to experience all the East Coast has to offer, especially the easy access to the outdoors; there is such a different culture that exists on this side of the country that makes it so beautiful.
This fall, Dartmouth provided me with incredible opportunities to get involved in politics. I registered as a New Hampshire voter, joined civic organizations, canvassed, and more! Read on to follow my journey leading up to Election Day!
Some of my rising senior friends from New York have been in contact with me since graduation, and I've compiled a list of FAQs that might help you better understand life at Dartmouth!
