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. Aspiring law student, an early riser, and bubbly personality are all 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!
Academic Program
Government or Native American and Indigenous Studies
This course was one of the reasons I chose to apply early decision to Dartmouth! I know, how could one course even influence such a big decision? Hearing Professor Duthu describe cases regarding the dispossession of Native tribes, the cultural tensions that many Native youth experience because of the effects of the Doctrine of Discovery, and economic development issues amongst many Native reservations made me edge out of my seat with excitement. The description did not disappoint because although it is one of my earliest classes, I always find myself running to class to learn something new. Professor Duthu presents in a way that wakes you up, makes you laugh, and encourages you to ask some pretty tough questions about tribal regulations. It has been extremely interesting how "bullets of the past are hitting present targets", meaning that many federal policies that happened decades ago still have very noticeable impacts in Indian Country (land in which tribal members own or previously occupied). I love being able to schedule office hours for any leftover questions. Would definitely recommend it!!
A common question I asked myself while exploring colleges. It is easy to fall in love with an institution as students and administrators explain why they believe it is so special. However, I wanted to make sure that whichever institution I did end up selecting was not only going to make me feel happy on my best days but also provide resources and communities that would be there to pick me up in those harder times.
It is such a weird moment to feel both such a strong sense of nostalgia and excitement as the class of 2029 appears on campus. I remember how nervous yet bubbly I felt as I walked up the steps of our admissions office, McNutt, for the first time. It is safe to say that seeing the golden bubbly balloons spelling out Dartmouth '28 is a memory that will be imprinted in my mind.
A common question that the new class asks is a perfect one: "why did you choose Dartmouth?"
I try to remember exactly what my year ago self was searching for. It was a mix of academic rigor, strong financial aid, and a balanced study body. However, I now realize that the major sense I was searching for was community.
I know it sounds cliché, but the simple answer is, I chose Dartmouth because it felt like a home away from home. (Spoiler: this is probably one of the most common responses because it's true)
Yes, Dartmouth has its moments. Especially during my first term, I felt overwhelmed and a little out of place. Would I be able to make it through my first term? Opening up to upperclassmen about this feeling helped me see I was not alone. It was a true blessing being able to receive both the academic and social resources that the First-Generation Office offers as those pep talks and hugs are what reminded me that I am capable of not simply surviving Dartmouth but thriving in this little college in the woods.
Another reason why Dartmouth stood out to me was because the professors truly did seem to care about how students felt as they entered their lab, lecture, or group project. I came from a very small school, a graduating class of 43 kids. While Dartmouth is certainly much bigger than that class size. I believe it offers the perfect balance of being able to constantly meet new people and have solid close knit relationships all at once. I think the perfect example of this is whenever you look at the Green. Everyone is so open to saying hi to new faces walking by and you also get to see friend groups meet up together whenever the sun is out. We are super lucky that Collis allows students to pick up any outdoor gear such as volleyballs, spikeballs, and frisbees!
So, I'll be saving a spot for you guys on the Green!!
When I first came to Dartmouth, the last thing I wanted to experience was the infamous, chilling New England winter—but I've discovered that Dartmouth's climate was a blessing in disguise, and even perhaps my favorite thing about campus.
I sat down with Aarushi Jain '25, a coxswain on the women's rowing team, to learn more about the opportunities to study abroad as an athlete at Dartmouth!
Once you are here, Dartmouth ensures that you have the tools you need to thrive, regardless of where you start. Read on to discover some of Dartmouth's lesser-known resources!
