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
While I was conducting my first ever tour as a Dartmouth tour guide, someone asked: "There's so much to do here! How could you possibly decide what to do?" And that's a great question! Did you know that Dartmouth has over 150 (known) clubs? And that 75% of students play some sort of sport on campus whether that be on a varsity, club, or intramural level? We have clubs ranging from government pre-professional topics to making coffee! But how do you decide?
There is a massive Student Involvement Fair each year before the first week of school detailing most of the clubs. While I was walking by tables and booths I said hello to familiar faces and even met some new '25s. This was my first club fair, as the one last year was virtual due to the pandemic. I was craving to do something new, maybe something outdoorsy. After what seemed like hours strolling past tables, I finally found the archery table. Have I ever done archery before? No. Did I used to have a Nerf Bow and Arrow set? Yes. Therefore, I assumed I was prepared. I walked to the table, asked some questions, shared my very reasonable qualifications and was invited to join the group chat!
This club, like many on campus, was low-commitment. Meaning, you can feel free to attend as many meetings throughout the week whenever you have time. Archery also doesn't require experience so that is great! Dartmouth is the perfect place to try new fun activities and frankly everyone is encouraged to do so. To answer the question in the first paragraph, you should be true to yourself. Think about what you are passionate about, what you might want to pursue in the future, and what you are interested in studying. But also, think about what seems fun to you. What have you never done before? What have you always hoped to do? Freshman year is the perfect time to explore and engage in new activities. So go forth, have fun, and explore!
It's hard to believe that it has been a year since I wrote my first end-of-fall-term reflection. It felt like only yesterday that I stepped into my dorm room this September, eager to reunite with my friends.
Most students have to go back to college after Thanksgiving to take their finals, but not at Dartmouth! We have a six-week winter break, known as "winterim!" Let me tell you how I spent my winterim!
As a second-year at Dartmouth, I've embraced leadership roles that foster community, creativity, and support! Here's a look at how each role has shaped my journey.
