Hi there! My name is Kiara Ortiz, a '24 from New York! I'm interested in studying Neuroscience along with Public Policy on the pre-health track. In my free time, I like to read sci-fi, play board games, and brag about my (supposedly) awful science puns. If you don't find me lost on the Green, I'm probably playing Werewolf or Trivia on Zoom with other '24s. Stay tuned to learn about the Dartmouth community I fell in love with and more about our virtual reality!
Academic Program
Intended major: Neuroscience; Intended minor: Public Policy
It's Time to "Level Up" with this Year's Winter Carnival!
Created in 1910, Winter Carnival is a beloved Dartmouth tradition intended to celebrate the beautiful winter season. This year was no different in emulating the glorious history that trails this event. Creatively accommodating the virtual nature of our reality, this year's theme was...drumroll, please...Level Up: Carnival Rebooted! Instead of a typical weekend, our carnival was extended and everyone in Hanover and at home was able to participate in events over two weeks!
Common events of the Carnival include the dog sled race, ice sculpture contest, and discounted ski trips! First up is the dog sled race. This race is held on the Green (which was covered in white snow through the entirety of winter term) and involves two brave participants: one to sit on a sled and one to fervently pull them across the pathway. Next up, we have
A wonderful PAC-MAN sculpture!
the ice sculpture contest! Students (from beginners to advanced sculptors) work in groups to adapt massive ice blocks into glacial masterpieces. One of my favorites has to be this gigantic PAC-MAN! And we can't forget about the discounted ski trips! As a popular sport enjoyed by a great number of students, the Winter Carnival offered free ski lift tickets for students to enjoy. There is free transportation to and from the skiway and even some ski lessons that students can take for physical education credit.
But do not worry, even if you are not a "snow person," there were countless activities to enjoy. With the theme focused on gaming, Collis, a common space for students, hosted some arcade games (featuring PAC-MAN) for two nights in a row! Additionally, we had the opportunity to rent out Nintendo Switches to play some Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart, and Mario Party 10 (which I won twice in, might I add)! There was even a sprinkle of art appreciation as we participated in an outdoor escape room that focused on exploring the art pieces around Campus! Lastly, my friends and I enjoyed what was a true spectacle at BEMA (Big Empty Meeting Area). The trees and the snowy landscape were
Some of the gorgeous lights at BEMA!
decorated in beautiful, radiant lights that you could stare at for hours. Once you entered the area, you were surrounded by soothing sounds, bright lights, and twinkling stars. It was a true delight and a wonderful way to end my very first Winter Carnival.
If you have read any of my previous blog posts, you would know that one of the main reasons I chose Dartmouth was because of the quirky traditions that create a profound sense of community. Winter Carnival is one of these traditions, and I'll cherish the memories for a long time.
I thought I'd use this blog post to share a bit more about Dartmouth's profound sense of place my first in-person (non-Zoom) term— particularly, the people, the place, and the pines.
This Indigenous Peoples' Month, Native organizations at Dartmouth are spearheading events that honor and celebrate Indigeneity in all of its shapes and forms.
Dartmouth has an extremely large pool of extracurricular activities you can choose from. From football to anime watching — all interests are met, no matter how niched they are. Here's a bit about my favourite club on campus!
When adapting to a unique college environment, it is important to open yourself up to new perspectives and meet all kinds of wonderful people! Yet, it is even more important to remember your values and what makes you happy.
I reflect on Week 4 and the beauty of Dartmouth's many opportunities and resources. I discuss the amazing memories and bonds that I have created within the Dartmouth and Upper Valley communities!
the ice sculpture contest! Students (from beginners to advanced sculptors) work in groups to adapt massive ice blocks into glacial masterpieces. One of my favorites has to be this gigantic PAC-MAN! And we can't forget about the discounted ski trips! As a popular sport enjoyed by a great number of students, the Winter Carnival offered free ski lift tickets for students to enjoy. There is free transportation to and from the skiway and even some ski lessons that students can take for physical education credit.
decorated in beautiful, radiant lights that you could stare at for hours. Once you entered the area, you were surrounded by soothing sounds, bright lights, and twinkling stars. It was a true delight and a wonderful way to end my very first Winter Carnival.
