Hello there! My name is Joanna Jou, a '26 from El Paso, TX. I love Hanover sunsets, relaxing out on The Green, and Still North Matcha w/ honey + almond milk. I'm beyond stoked to have y'all follow along as I create my own version of Dartmouth!
A discussion-based class co-taught by two notable professors in the Russian and German translation/scholar community. We read a series of poems and short stories written by poets who lived under totalitarian regimes (specifically in Germany and the Soviet Union) while examining the role poetry played in communicating trauma and the living of life.
Coming in with no economics background, ECON 1 is an introductory class that explores how individuals and firms make independent choices, how it is reflected in the market place while analyzing it through consumer and producer perspectives, and exploring the theories involved in resource allocation and output determination. Taught by the amazing Dr. Ha Yan Lee, her dedication to the class and her students made me excited to come to her lectures, office hours, and to continue taking classes in the economics department.
As a freshman, we are required to complete a seminar course as part of our first-year writing sequence. With a variety of departments to choose from, I elected a course on the Green New Deal with the history department since I wanted to explore the department a little more. As a discussion-based class, the way Professor Link structured his course and how he led discussions undoubtedly became the highlight of my spring term; not only did I learn some history and improved my writing along the way, but it also encouraged me to pursue the history major (and more classes with him).
SummerEl Paso, TX
Back home for the summer in Texas as I spend time with my family, focus on my mental and physical well-being, and start a new role with the Admissions Office as an Admissions Communications Intern!
Initially taking this course to fulfill my distributive requirement, I ended up really enjoying ANTH 50.49. Although I am a self-proclaimed museum enthusiast, I didn't think to inquire about the development or evolution of museums, which is why I thought this course would also be interesting to take. Nevertheless, Professor Meredith Ferguson '08 did a lovely job in shedding light on various angles in the museum world such as its natural history, curating/conserving, "heritage", repatriation and restitution, and public trust. In addition, we wrapped up the course by finally thinking about the future of museums, and their representation in society today.
I initially took this course purely out of interest as I didn't have any prior experience with the government department. Nevertheless, Politics of the World is the reason why I've decided to pursue a government minor. Taught through a comparative lens, I quickly realized that much of my academics interests lie at the intersection between comparative politics and international relations; thus, this course served as an intellectually stimulating and enriching experience, which made it a highlight of my winter term.
I was immediately drawn to this course just by the title. To put it simply—wow, just wow. Through studying two centuries of wars, reforms, and revolutions, I've gained a deep understanding of Chinese nationalism, not just as part of national history, but also how it was carried overseas by an array of influential characters. Professor Yi Lu is one of the kindest, most genuine, accommodating, and thought-provoking professors I've had a pleasure to know and learn from at Dartmouth!
SummerThe Baltic countries: Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia
Studied abroad in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia with the government department! As post-Soviet countries, the Baltic states have become democratic success stories after major political and social transformations. This government seminar—taught by the program director—featured a variety of guest lecturers and excursions exploring the concept of democracy, its pathway and development in the Baltics, and the region's future given its geopolitical significance at the forefront of potential global conflict.
Over the course of our four years at Dartmouth, one of the graduation requirements consists of three physical education and/or wellness credits that can be fulfilled through a variety of activities. In my blog post a few weeks ago, I talked about the snow sport PE classes offered in the winter. Now, here's a breakdown on the other multitude of ways you can fulfill these credits:
1. Dance Troupes
One of my favorite performances to watch on campus comes from the dance shows on campus ranging from South Asian inspired dance to contemporary/jazz to hip hop; the shows are usually hosted by Greek spaces and have a packed audience because of the thriller it is to watch. Being on a dance team is a great way to not only build a community with your teammates, but also get a PE credit out of it! Although I unfortunately don't have a dance bone in my body, I have a few friends in Ujima, one of the hip hop dance groups and oldest dance organization at Dartmouth, that speak to the fun and tight-knit experiences they have being part of the team — click here to gain a little more insight on one of the major dance troupes at Dartmouth!
2. Student Wellness Center
The Physical Education requirement can also be fulfilled by participating in different activities/experiences hosted by the Student Wellness Center and Academic Skills Center. 12 sessions make up one credit that include guided meditation, various yoga sessions, wellness/mindfulness drop ins, and "Get It Done" sessions (facilitated time work sessions in a gorgeous garden room!). Additionally, there are week-long courses such as alcohol education, cannabis checkup, positive relationship and sex, and sleep quality intervention that are offered for students wanting to learn more about a specific topic that can be completed as one credit.
3. FLIP PE Classes
One of my favorite options offered by the Physical Education and Recreation department is the wide range of group fitness classes including cardio conditioning, spin, pilates, stretching and flexibility, dance, zumba, and whole body conditioning. Last term, I was enrolled in a FLIP class called Whole Body Conditioning, which taught me how to use various gym equipment and different workouts using weights. This term, I am in a group spin class cardio and muscle building, which I've greatly enjoyed; my instructor Sue has been teaching spin at Dartmouth for around 30 years and always has such high spirits for the class!
4. Club Sports
A little fun fact about Dartmouth is that around 75% of the undergraduate student body are involved in sports in one way or another. Club sports are student-run organizations that can range from nationally competitive teams such as men's rugby, men's club volleyball, men and women's water polo, figure skating, or other recreational activities such as badminton club, club alpine and nordic ski, triathlon, powerlifting, or the running team. However, it is completely okay if you are not interested in club sports! There is no pressure to be a part of the 75% as you are able to find other activities to account for your time.
5. Varsity Sports
If you are a varsity athlete (competing on the intercollegiate level), you automatically are able to fulfill the PE credits through your respective sport either in or out of season; thus, you don't have to worry about partaking in other activities since your sport automatically qualifies you to get credit from it.
In all, I find the physical education requirement to be another great way to meet new people, try new activities, and also an appreciable way to stay active and healthy. Other options to fulfill these credits include ROTC, the Dartmouth Marching Band, swim classes, indoor climbing, mountaineering, and summer sailing. Thus, there is always something for everyone to fulfill this requirement; don't shy away from it!
In addition to blogging, I work as a Fellow for the Tucker Center, which focuses on promoting spiritual and ethical life on campus. As part of this role, I'm leading the Interfaith Alternative Spring Break Trip. Read on to learn more about my work!
