Hi! My name is Arianna, and I'm a sophomore ('27) from Georgia. On campus, I am involved with the Cheerleading Team, Dartmouth Caribbean Connections, the First-Gen Office, and the Black Underground Theater Association. My aim is to pursue a degree in History modified with Public Policy and a minor in Psychology ("pre-law"). I love reading, listening to music, and meeting new people. Follow along through this blog as I traverse my wonderful experiences!
Given my intrigue in pursuing a major in Government, I adored my Politics and AI class. I had zero background in computer science, yet Professor Breuer cohesively connected politics with principles of algorithms and artificial intelligence in a way that I could understand. We finalized the course by doing a cool research project of our own liking.
I am interested in pursuing a minor in Public Policy, which was my reason for taking this class initially. As the term progressed, I was able to learn most of the introductory principles of Public Policy and the framework for policymaking in democratic governance. The readings were interesting, and the discussion-based lectures kept me engaged.
Wow...what an amazing class! This has been one of my favorite classes that I have taken the entire year. Professor Chaney encouraged us to expand our writing through a multitude of methods of analysis, allowing students to look beyond the details of a photograph. Our ideas were not discouraged or disproved, leaving room for proper evaluative learning and prompting discussions about interesting moments in black art history.
SummerWoodstock, GA
I spent this summer at home, but I stayed busy through continuing to blog for the Admissions Office, working a part-time restaurant job, and completing a Market Research and Consulting Internship with a women's health care nonprofit organization, HappySneeze.
This class is a gem for those interested in learning more about the development of the healthcare system from the pre-colonial period into its contemporary form. Initially, I took this class because I am interested in becoming a healthcare lawyer and wanted to explore the foundation of one of the biggest systems in America. While the content is still fairly fresh, and it is the beginning of the term, I already know that this will be one of my favorite classes this fall! Despite the vast influx of information that we go over each class, Professor Koop writes all the topics we will discuss that day on the board sequentially. Not only does this keep me engaged and willing to participate, but it also encourages me to stay organized and on track!
Being a first-generation college student means more than just stepping onto a campus for the first time; it's about embracing an entirely new world where you're often the first in your family to navigate the complexities of higher education. The term "first-generation" refers to students who are the first in their immediate families to attend college. For many, this journey is filled with unique challenges and triumphs, from learning academic lingo to building connections that feel more like family than just classmates. It's about resilience, resourcefulness, and the courage to build a new path when there's no clear roadmap. And for me, working as a Digital Media Student Director at Dartmouth's First-Generation Office (FGO) has been an integral part of this journey.
This past year, I've had the wonderful opportunity to work closely with the FGO, curating digital content for our website and social media platforms. This role is not just about promoting events; it's about amplifying the voices and stories of first-generation students, highlighting their achievements, and connecting them with opportunities that support their growth. I create everything from student spotlights and event postings to outreach collaborations with campus and student organizations. It's a role that allows me to explore my passion for graphic design—a love I discovered and nurtured in middle and high school—and bring creativity and purpose into each post and design.
My role involves close collaboration with other student directors and some fantastic faculty members. I work under the guidance of Janice Williams '92, our Associate Director and Prepare to Launch Coordinator, who provides invaluable support in everything from creating event flyers to strategizing effective outreach for our first-generation and low-income students. She, alongside Director Jay Davis '90 and Program Coordinator Diane Cammarata '21, helps me navigate and improve how we reach and engage our community. Updating our alumni directory, planning creative outreach ideas, and even organizing our pantry and snack sign designs are just a few of the many tasks we tackle together.
One of my favorite aspects of the FGO experience has been the community dinners we host throughout the year. This past term, we organized three memorable dinners, each with its unique focus. The first was a gathering for our general community, bringing together first-gen students from all years for a welcoming evening of connection. The second was dedicated to first-year students, helping them find their footing and navigate the challenges of their first term at Dartmouth. The last dinner was a wellness-themed evening, providing a space to discuss mental health and well-being—a particularly important conversation in the demanding college environment. Each dinner was a chance to see familiar faces, meet new students, and celebrate our shared experiences and aspirations.
A student showcased their carving skills with this 'FGO' pumpkin masterpiece at the First-Year Community Dinner.
Working for the First-Generation Office has given me a deeper appreciation for the power of community and the importance of representation and outreach. I understand the value of having a space where you're supported, seen, and celebrated. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of a team that creates that space for others, bringing a little more visibility and warmth to the first-gen experience here at Dartmouth.
A group of students that went on an apple-picking excursion at a nearby farm, an event hosted by the First-Generation Office (FGO)!
Each day in this role, I'm reminded that being a first-gen student isn't just an identity; it's a journey of courage, strength, and possibility. Through my work with the FGO, I'm grateful to have the opportunity to share that journey with so many other inspiring students.
This fall, Dartmouth provided me with incredible opportunities to get involved in politics. I registered as a New Hampshire voter, joined civic organizations, canvassed, and more! Read on to follow my journey leading up to Election Day!
