Hi everyone! I'm Julia from Seattle, WA. Reading this blog during my junior and senior years of high school helped me to envision myself on this campus, so this all feels very full-circle. I'm studying QSS and I'm looking forward to taking my French skills abroad next year in Toulouse and Paris. I love cooking/food, watching old Modern Family episodes (my favorite character is Mitch), and finding cozy places to study on campus (preferably in my PJ's). Talk to you soon!
Dartmouth is known for its sense of place. While being in rural New Hampshire is wonderful for so many reasons, it raises the question: how the heck am I going to get to the woods?
Recently, I was in a training on campus where everyone was asked how far away they live from campus. And, not to toot my own horn or anything, but I left that training thinking that I have the most average commute time of anyone—making me a perfect candidate to answer this question.
From the Seattle-Tacoma Airport to the Dartmouth Coach (bus system to Dartmouth from Boston), here's an hour-by-hour breakdown of my most recent journey to Hanover from Seattle, Washington.
5:15 am PT
Unfortunately, my day of travel starts way before the sun has risen. My bag is packed, and the dogs are hugged; it's time to hit the road.
5:30 am PT
My dad takes me to the airport, stopping on our way to pick up Marina (another '27) from her hotel. Marina had been in British Columbia over spring break, so we decided to fly back to campus together!
6:15 am PT
We breeze through security and make it to the gate. Once we're there, I notice a few more of my classmates. Since the Seattle-Dartmouth community is so tight-knit, I always run into people on my way to Boston.
7:00 am PT
Time to board! Marina and I meet up with Rachel (another '27).
3:45 pm ET
We touch down in Boston and grab some burritos at the airport. Then, we make our way to baggage claim. We eat up and get ready to board the Dartmouth Coach!
4:45 pm ET
We get on the bus—along with a lot of other Dartmouth students—and make our way to Hanover. The Dartmouth Coach is so convenient; the stop is literally right outside baggage claim and you're dropped off on the Green!
7:30 pm ET—Home Sweet Home!
Although it only feels like 4:30 pm, I am exhausted from the travel day and ready for bed. I make my way back to my room, unpack, and shower. Goodnight!
As you can see, getting to Dartmouth isn't as daunting as it may seem. And, at the end of the day, it's worth it for the beautiful scenery, the clear night skies, and a town that feels like home.
The thrills and whirlwind that is Freshman Fall was an extraordinary time in my life. Reflecting on two years back, I want to explore the many events and emotions I went through during this time.
How do Dartmouth students balance their classes and social life in a reasonable way? Somehow, we manage to get good grades and prioritize our academics while also making life-long friendships and memories.
