Tess Hunter

The Beginning…

Beginnings can seem ominous, but in my case, they were full of excitement and discovery. Dartmouth, through its two-week orientation, has made sure that incoming students become settled and part of the community, all before they start classes. So that is what I will discuss—my experience of New Student Orientation (NSO). Because so much has happened, this will be a whistle-stop tour. Please feel free to explore the attached weblinks to find out more!

The International Student Pre-Orientation Program (ISPOP) was possibly one of the highlights of these two weeks. From bingo to karaoke (my new friends and I performed what we like to think was a unique arrangement of 'Sweet Caroline') to a talent show, it was a busy three days. The purpose was for international students to create a community and learn about the resources and opportunities available to us. Additionally, there was significant programming focused on F-1 visas, which are essential for international students studying in the U.S. The Dartmouth Office of Visa and Immigration Services ensures that students receive comprehensive support and resources to maintain their legal status and navigate the complexities of visa regulations.

Once ISPOP wrapped up, the excitement didn't slow down. We immediately transitioned to one of the most anticipated events: First-Year Trips (FYT). All first-year students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of options, including Museum Exploration, Mountain Biking, and Hiking. Students rank their choices and comfortability level for FYT and will be put on a trip that fits their preferences. I requested and got Cabin Camping! For two nights, I, along with seven others (in Dartmouth lingo, we are 'trippees"), slept in a cabin overlooking a lake in a camp about thirty minutes from campus. I learned how to play SpikeBall, played cards, went on hikes, and cooked our own food. Two upperclassmen led our trip and gave us insight into Dartmouth life. On our final night, we reconvened with other groups at Moosilauke Ravine Lodge, where we participated in group dance lessons, played more SpikeBall, and shared our experiences with others. For the first time in two days (so dramatic), we had a home-cooked meal. We also did a sunrise hike, a 'sunrike.' Our goal was to reach the top of Mount Moosilauke by sunrise—6:21 AM. We left the lodge at 3:00 AM and hiked up the mountain to some pumping music. Unfortunately, it was too cloudy to see the sunrise, but getting back to camp by 8:30 AM, with a warm breakfast prepared for us and a huge sense of accomplishment, made it all worth it.

Me and my trippees at the Moosilauke Ravine Lodge!

The culminating event of orientation was the Twilight Ceremony, occurring on the final Sunday before classes started. Gathering on the Green, each student was given a candle, and we lit our candles one by one. We then proceeded to BEMA (an acronym for "Big Empty Meeting Area"), a clearing in the nearby woods. As we stood together in the dimming twilight, I felt both a sense of closure on orientation and a spark of excitement for what lay ahead. Blowing out our candles signaled the start of our Dartmouth journey.

The Twilight Ceremony!

Despite this being a quick review of a busy time, I hope the magic of Dartmouth's orientation week is conveyed. The people I met and the memories I've made will stay with me for a long time. NSO was a perfect kick-off to the next four years, and I can't wait to see where this adventure takes me next. Here's to many more firsts!