Hi! I'm Tacko Diop from Harlem, NYC. My Senegalese background has shaped my passion for social justice, which led me to double major in Government and African and American Studies. I speak English, Wolof, French, Arabic, and a bit of Korean. Outside of academics, I enjoy watching period dramas, reading, and spending time with family and friends. I'm drawn to Dartmouth's close-knit community and excited for the journey ahead!
Academic Program
Major: Government and African and American Studies
Before applying to Dartmouth, I had never visited the campus, nor did I know anyone personally who attended the school. Yet, through my research and conversations with current students, I felt confident enough to apply early. I read blogs like these, attended information sessions, and spoke with Dartmouth students who shared their experiences with me. Looking back, there were two things that truly stood out about Dartmouth and solidified my decision.
1. The Community
When I asked students what they loved most about Dartmouth, one word consistently came up: community. Whether through blogs, conversations, or sessions, the overwhelming sentiment was that Dartmouth's tight-knit community sets it apart.
Coming from a Senegalese and Harlem background, I've always valued the sense of community and belonging. In both of those places, we were raised to embrace and build a strong sense of togetherness. I knew that when choosing a college, I needed a school that would not only support me academically but also make me feel at home. While many schools boast about having a welcoming environment, Dartmouth's community feels unique in its intimacy and commitment. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, it was clear that this bond is embedded in daily life. Whether it's supporting each other's goals or sharing in each other's experiences, students here are genuinely connected and invested in one another's success.
2. First-Generation, Low-Income (FGLI) Support
While community was crucial in my decision, the support for first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students was equally important. As a first-gen, low-income student myself, I wanted to attend a school that truly understood the challenges I would face and offered the necessary resources to help me succeed.
Dartmouth's commitment to FGLI students became immediately apparent during my application process, particularly through the First-Year Student Enrichment Program (FYSEP). This program stood out as an incredible resource for first-gen students, offering mentorship, guidance, and a deeper sense of belonging. And honestly, FYSEP exceeded my expectations. It wasn't just a one-time program—it was the beginning of a long-term support system that would follow me throughout my time here. From academic resources to financial aid support, I've never felt alone or unsupported in my journey.
These two elements, the community and FGLI support, were more than just factors in my decision to apply. They were the foundation of why I feel that Dartmouth is the place where I truly belong.
This winter, I'm studying abroad in Toulouse, immersing myself in French language, literature, art, and culture through place-based classes, city explorations, and firsthand experiences across southern France.
This past summer, I was a Dartmouth Bound Leader with Admissions and a leader for Strengthening Educational Access with Dartmouth (SEAD) with the Center for Social Impact. With my rural, low-income background, I found it fulfilling to be a mentor.
Welcome back to Open Doors—your inside look at life in the Woods! This week, Gabe Brigham '26, a psychology and sociology double major, showed me around his dorm room, where we discussed Dartmouth residence halls, classes, and campus life.
