Andrea Agola
You are here
A Space For Community
This term I'm taking an introductory anthropology course about Language and Culture, a calculus math class, and an accelerated (levels 1 & 2) French class. With the 4th week of the term underway, as I think about some of the spaces on campus that I frequent a lot outside of my classrooms, the Shabazz Center for Intellectual Inquiry–the African & African American Living Learning Community, is among the top of the list.
The center's mission is "to enhance the intellectual and cultural milieu of the Dartmouth College campus with particular regard to those issues which pertain to the historical and contemporary experiences of people of African descent." True enough, I have spent time in Shabazz both studying and having fun with friends. Some of my freshman friends live there along with other sophomores and upperclassmen.

Many African & African American campus groups/organizations hold meetings and events in Shabazz throughout the week and over the weekend. It's been great to find out that there are so many organizations that aim to support African & African American students like DASA (Dartmouth African Student Association), Black Praxis (an undergraduate digital arts magazine), NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers), Morning Glory Community Fellowship (a student-led, interdenominational Christian group) and much more.
Over the last few weekends, I've gone to a 90's themed dance party, a DASA event, and many spontaneous gatherings. After busy weeks, it's been nice to unwind to great music (like Afrobeats!) and food while mingling with students of similar identities and backgrounds. I've especially found a large Kenyan community who I can relate to and many upperclassmen who have openly shared their experiences and given advice on everything from class selection to study spots to the best clubs to join.

Having these communities of people and the Shabazz space has really helped me feel seen, supported, and empowered on campus.
Posts You Might Like
Let's Get Lost in the Library! A deep dive into the known, unusual, and hidden study spots all around Dartmouth's campus! Up next, Baker Library!
Come with me on a normal day of classes and extracurriculars!
Dartmouth's Chinese New Year celebrations brought a sense of home through themed dining, student-led events, and cultural gatherings, fostering community and appreciation for the holiday.
Nestled on campus, the Hood Museum of Art is a space for learning, insightful reflections, and more!
In this post, I write about student-professor relationships and the undergraduate focus at Dartmouth.
So it's like Pitch Perfect? Join Jay '27 and I as we discuss the Aires, Dartmouth's oldest acapella group!
Join me as I debunk the myths, ease your worries, and prove why living in the basement is actually a hidden gem!
Valentine's Day at Dartmouth is an exciting day to spread love and appreciation for the people around you! On campus, a myriad of programs are hosted for all students to enjoy.
The stakes are high… come see what it takes to win an investment competition