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 your parents ever ask you questions that you do not necessarily know how to answer?
Sweet, mine too.
Here are some questions that my parents had about Dartmouth that I hope can help answer some of your parents' concerns too!
1. What is campus safety like at Dartmouth?
It is EXTREMELY safe—a valid question asked by my mother. We have security accessible at all times on campus. Additionally we have call stations (called Code Blue Phones) placed throughout Dartmouth, which can be used to call a campus security officer if you ever feel need of urgent assistance. Dartmouth also has security apps and contact information that are given out to students during orientation to help facilitate information in preparation for an emergency. Personally, I feel very safe. I know if I leave my laptop and notebook in the library while I use the restroom, it will be right there when I return. Additionally, I can walk around comfortably at night since the town of Hanover is quite undisturbed. We also have a hospital near campus, which can be taken using the Dartmouth Campus Connector Bus or Advance Transit Shuttle—all free of charge!
2. How do students stay busy?
Clubs, classes, outdoors, and more! Do not worry about getting bored. Although we are not in the city, we know how to act like one; there is always something happening on campus whether it is a guest speaker or a new band. You definitely have to keep an eye out and look for something that fits your taste but if you look for it you will find something fun!
3. What are the class sizes actually like?
A great question from my dad. Some introductory courses can be bigger than others, but these are definitely our most packed classes. I took an introductory computer science class, which was capped at 100 students, yet my government class had 50 students, and my writing class this winter is limited to 20, so a pretty wide variety but overall on a smaller scale.
4. What majors and minors are offered?
Although I can not name all of them (feel free to browse them here). I think some pretty cool majors included our Quantitative Social Science major, which is similar to applied statistics—and our public policy minor is quite popular as well.
5. What are stress relievers on campus?
The Student Wellness Center can be found on the main floor of our Baker-Berry Library, which offers appointments and services throughout the term. Some opportunities offered include pet therapy, which brings dogs in each week for students to play with at the Center. Another way students relax is by enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Furthermore, a unique option offered is also the telephonic service, which brings in people of color therapists for those who would feel more comfortable to talk with someone of a similar background.
I hope these answers were helpful and feel free to reach out if you have more questions!
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!
