Hi, I'm Youmi from China and Japan :) I'm intending to pursue a double major in CS and Philosophy. When I'm not coding or writing, you'll often catch me taking photos, exploring museums, and watching sunsets. My favorite activities at the moment include hanging out with friends in the Cube, cloud-watching on the Green, or reading in the Berry Library. I'm so excited to share all of Dartmouth's "people," "places," and "pines" with you through my blogs and photos!
Academic Program
Computer Science and Philosophy
Favorite Thing Right Now
Jellyfish lamps in Black Family Visual Arts Center
Dartmouth offers a variety of different first-year writing classes across disciplines, but “Understanding the Craft of Dramatic Writing” caught my attention right away upon browsing the descriptions of all 32 classes offered this year. As an avid binge watcher of TV shows, movies, and short films, I couldn’t wait to explore my favorite pastime hobby in a classroom with peers. I also had the chance to explore theatrical plays, which is a literary medium that I’ve always wanted to explore but never had the opportunity or resources to. What I love the most, though, are the weekly check-in sessions led by Professor Carabastos — through these short life updates, our class formed a relationship beyond just being classmates. I’m so glad to have chosen this class!
Finding Home in the Woods as an International Student
When I first decided to come to Dartmouth, I hadn't visited campus. I remember sitting at home, staring at photos of the iconic Baker-Berry Library and the Green, wondering if I'd be able to find my place in a school so far away from everything I'd ever known. Would I make friends? Would I feel comfortable here? Those were big, scary questions, but looking back, I realize how much the early days at Dartmouth — through orientation programs and campus resources — helped ease those fears.
My friends and I at a ISPOP program on the day after moving in!
Transition to Dartmouth and ISPOP (International Student Pre-Orientation Program)
ISPOP is Dartmouth's pre-orientation program specifically designed for international students. We arrived on campus two days before the domestic students, which gave us extra time to settle in and adjust. But it wasn't just about logistics — it was about connection. From fun activities like bingo nights and karaoke sessions to cozy s'mores by the Collis fireplace, ISPOP created a space where it was easy to meet people who were in the same boat as me.
Phones, Banks, and All the Basics
Adjusting to life in a new country involves a lot of little tasks — getting a phone plan, opening a bank account, and just figuring out how things work in the U.S. Thankfully, ISPOP made all of this so much easier. There's even a fair where different phone service providers set up booths, so you can compare plans and get a U.S. number without any hassle.
As for personal finances, Bank of America is just a short walk from campus down Main Street. The people there were incredibly helpful, walking me step-by-step through the process of opening an account. These small but essential tasks felt far less overwhelming with the support of ISPOP.
I made new friends during ISPOP through playing Mahjong!
Adjusting to a New Culture
Jetlagged and craving familiar food? Don't worry—Han Fusion, Sushiya, and Tuk Tuk are just a few of the great restaurants near campus offering Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Thai cuisines. For me, food was such an important way to stay connected to home, and it made a world of difference during my adjustment period.
Beyond food, Dartmouth has a vibrant network of culture-based student organizations. Whether it's the Dartmouth Chinese Student Association, Korean Student Association, or countless others, you'll find spaces where you can celebrate your culture, share traditions, and meet people who understand your experience. (Check out this blog for more about cultural connections at Dartmouth!)
A Home Away From Home
Starting a new chapter in an unfamiliar place will always come with challenges, but Dartmouth truly makes an effort to help every student — international or not — find their place here. From the warm welcome of ISPOP to the countless cultural resources and friendly faces on campus, Dartmouth becomes not just a school, but a home in the woods.
If you're nervous about making the leap, know this: you're not alone, and Dartmouth is ready to welcome you with open arms.
The sorority rush process is a flexible, three-round experience each fall and winter where potential new members gradually narrow down their choices and receive an invitation to join their matched sorority.
As I reflect on my first semester at Dartmouth, I can't help but think about how one year ago, I wrote my "Why Dartmouth" supplemental essay. Let's see what has changed since then!
Exploring the Southern Part of Sri Lanka during our six weeks of winter break! A much-needed exposure to the sun and sand before I return for the Winter Term at Dartmouth.
As wintertime rolls around and applications begin to be read, applicants may be offered the opportunity to interview with a Dartmouth alumni. Read on to learn more about the ins and outs of the process!
