Hey there! My name is Pau and I am a '25 from Nicaragua! At Dartmouth, I am a Government major modified with Economics and I also plan to minor in International Studies. A little more about me is that I have an undying passion for eating fruit, watching sunrises/sunsets, petting dogs, and finding myself in warm, cozy places. Feel free to ask me any questions on anything and everything that piques your interest about Dartmouth! I love to share :) Go Big Green!
In this class we pondered essential questions centered around human existence. To tackle "What Matters" we took a quest throughout time exploring different events throughout our collective history that have de-centered us in space and time and made us question how we derive meaning and purpose in our lives.
This class was led by Lisa Adams, MD, and Dr. John Butterly, MD, who are both AMAZING. This class discussed several health issues such as diseases, malnourishment, and improper sanitation that still plagues the world today and various solutions that can be undertaken to increase the overall health and wellbeing of the world's population.
A hallmark of the Dartmouth education, ECON 1 "The Price System" is offered during every term at Dartmouth except the summer. Whether or not students want to major in economics, many decide to make the first plunge into the world of supply and demand through this introductory course. ECON 1 was a memorable part of my Freshman Spring as I became engrossed into the economics department through the teachings of Professor Diego Ramos-Toro. This class helped me and other students alike gain an understanding of economic policy and concepts that I continue to be useful today. ECON 1 is a profoundly helpful course that would be beneficial to all students regardless of their academic interests.
Development Economics is a course that focuses on using statistical methodologies to understand a fundamental question what makes some countries rich and others poor? And what can we do about it?
Violence and Security is a class offered through the International Studies Department that seeks to understand the underlying causes of human conflict. To answer this question, the class takes on a multidisciplinary approach and draws from the fields of biology, anthropology, economics, and political science. I loved the way in which the class sought to “illuminate the news” through our discussions and also created a vivid space for us to actively question human behavior and the implications of governmental policy towards security.
Government 5 is one of Dartmouth’s most popular courses. In it, students get a taste for subjects in the international realm by thinking critically about the multiple facets of international politics including questions of conflict and security, global economics and trade, climate change, as well as allegiances and cooperation. I loved the way in which Professor Daryl Press was able to expertly weave current events into the class in order to make students gain a deeper understanding of the topics at hand.
Homecoming at Dartmouth is incredibly special, and unlike anything you would see at other schools. Homecoming marks a milestone in the life of many first-year Dartmouth students. Often, it is the first time first years see hundreds of alumni flocking back to campus to commemorate a quintessential Dartmouth tradition. The homecoming bonfire is the highlight of Dartmouth Night, which dates back to 1888, and is just one of the many traditions that Dartmouth has to offer.
While in 1888 students built the bonfire from anything they could find, even propping up old mattresses to set aflame, today the bonfire is built in a specific structure in order to ensure safety. For the entire week before Homecoming, the college begins preparing for the event setting high wood pillars on the center of The Green. It is a tradition that freshmen help build the bonfire and write their names on wooden boards that will also be engulfed in flames.
Last year, as I walked around the bonfire surrounded by what would become my closest friends, I remember feeling complete and unadulterated joy. I was finally at Dartmouth, living what I had only ever imagined in my wildest dreams. I had already spent a couple of weeks at Dartmouth and could find my way around here. As I walked around the bonfire, I thought about how I was part of such a large and loving community. Walking around the bonfire, I felt how this would just be one of many Dartmouth Nights that will come in the future. I truly felt like Dartmouth was home, and it always would be. Dartmouth would always continue to be a part of me.
This past weekend, as I experienced homecoming for the second time, I felt a renewed sense of belonging. As I watched the freshmen walking around the blazing bonfire I felt so happy to be able to welcome new students to Dartmouth. Every year onwards, I could go back to Dartmouth and participate in a tradition that has taken place for more than 134 years and will continue to exist for many more. And every time, I will be so glad to be coming home.
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.
