Mucho gusto! Let's get to the fun stuff first. I love journaling, dancing in the gym, and being outside in some sunshine. I am from Tucson, Arizona and a '28. I am a proud first generation and low-income student who comes from a loving Mexican and Native American family. An early riser and bubbly personality are some ways to describe me. So before you leave, welcome to Dartmouth! I am Dezstany and I hope you join me on this journey into the woods!
I hope you're doing well and can feel some of my enthusiasm because I am so excited to tell you about all the amazing support systems here at Dartmouth!
This previous weekend there were a lot of welcome back cookouts! It was super exciting to see so many different communities come together and support one another as we all dive into the hustle and bustle of our next ten weeks. I felt super at home as I ate tacos from the Latin and Caribbean Kickoff BBQ.
This event was hosted by the Latin and Caribbean Student Advising within the Office of Pluralism and Leadership. The Office of Pluralism and Leadership,commonly referred to as OPAL, is an amazing department here at Dartmouth that makes an active effort to help students adjust to the Dartmouth lifestyle while providing them with opportunities to celebrate their cultural identities, become leaders, and learn more about involvements outside of the classroom.. I have been in their office and I can guarantee you'll feel their positive energy and joy no matter what time you walk into their doors.
Later that evening, I also went to a welcome back cookout hosted by the Native American Program. What is super special about the Native American community here at Dartmouth is the close connections that we all share with each other. I am currently taking a Native American and Indigenous Studies course called Indian Country Today taught by the honored Professor Duthu. I had office hours with Professor Duthu on Friday to discuss some of the readings of our previous week and to simply get to know each other a little bit better. Then, I was able to catch up with him again at our cookout on Saturday since he is the head of the Native American and Indigenous Studies department here at Dartmouth.
I bet I know what you're thinking. How many cookouts are there? I know I know, there are quite a few. However, I still have one left. I'll give you a hint, checkout the flag in the header photo!
Yup! You guessed it. The Mexican Student Association also hosted a back to school gathering as well. However, I think this one is a little extra special considering the establishment of the Mexican Student Association is relatively new. MexSa for short began just this year! Hearing the old Mexican music and smelling the flautas brought an automatic warm sonrisa (smile in Spanish) to my face.
I know these cookouts may not seem as much, but when you have been about six weeks away from your home and culture, it makes a big difference when you see traditional foods, listen to familiar songs, and make jokes in your native language with other students at Dartmouth. Hopefully, I did not make you too hungry and can't wait to see you again soon. Adíos!
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