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!!
I don't know about you but when I hear the word "fire", I do not tend to think of it being a fun and positive experience. During my pre-orientation, I heard upperclassmen talking about how much they loved FIRE. I thought it was a little odd but soon came to realize they were talking about the Full Immersion Rome Experience offered through the Italian Department.
I knew I wanted to study abroad while at Dartmouth but was a little nervous to start thinking about the logistics. I am happy to report that the application process was much easier than I expected. At the beginning of fall term, departments join together to host a study away fair. It was a great chance to ask questions and get to know the professors I would potentially be studying under. The Frank J. Guarini Institute for International Education then opens up applications October 1 and most tend to close February 1.
At Dartmouth, there are many study abroad programs that include Dartmouth professors and students. So if you are scared about being in a new space where you do not know anyone, that won't be a problem! This type of arrangement can even be seen in study abroad outside of the language departments. The government department offers a dometic study abroad in Washington D.C, directed by Professor Baldez and taken alongside Dartmouth students.
But how realistic is it that I will be accepted into a study abroad?
Great question! Some departments are in a bit more demand than others. Yet, it is extremely high to be accepted into at least one opportunity abroad during your time at Dartmouth. Professors are always open to answer questions and talk more about their expectations of potential applicants.
Is it expensive?
Happy you asked. Financial aid travels with you along with other services such as mental health and career development offerings that students on campus may take advantage of.
Throughout the application period outside organizations such as the Writing Center offer free drop in hours where you can ask any of the writing tutors to give feedback to your application.
I recently just submitted my applications for both the Italian and Government study abroad so we will see how they go!
While many people might associate cold, long, snowy winters with hardship, I've found that winter at Dartmouth is full of potential to be just as fun as other seasons.
In just a month, I went from a complete beginner to a proficient skier, smoothly making my way down the green and blue runs at Dartmouth Skiway. Read about my journey and how I made such rapid progress!
I've never felt the saying, "Time flies" more strongly than now. How am I already halfway through my Dartmouth career? This winter marks the end of my 6th out of my total 12 terms, the halfway point of my Dartmouth journey.
