Introducing: City Girl Loving a Small Town World

We all have our origin stories, and here is mine: I grew up with a Virginian father and a Chinese immigrant mother just outside of Washington, DC, a vibrant hub of political and cultural life where peaceful protests downtown are as ubiquitous as the good food from places far and wide. Living in a multicultural household and visiting the Smithsonian museums shaped my appreciation for civil rights and global perspectives. Perhaps it's no wonder that I'm participating in the Great Issues Scholars program for first-years or that I'm exploring classes related to international relations through the Government department at Dartmouth!

Since I was little, I've been fascinated with the outdoors and the natural world. Some of my fondest childhood memories include swimming in the ocean, skiing, helping my mom in our backyard garden, and curling up in bed with the latest issue of National Geographic Magazine. Consequently, I consider myself both a city girl and a nature girl at heart. Rural Hanover feels like a peaceful detox from the noise and light pollution I've been used to, and over the course of my first term, I've enjoyed exploring the Organic Farm and gallivanting on Dartmouth Outing Club (DOC) trips.

I'm in the thick of my second term now, and I've felt the welcoming embrace of the Dartmouth community to my core: from "dancing the medley" on First Year Trips (a fun and memorable fall experience), to roasting marshmallows at the Collis Student Center, to receiving professional coaching at the Academic Skills Center.

Dressed in colorful costumes, several students link arms while smiling at the crowd.

First Year Trip leaders traditionally dress in goofy "flair" as they lead everyone in song, dance, and fun at Moosilauke Ravine Lodge. (Photo credit: Ethan F '29)

I'm excited to tell you about late-night chats with my dorm neighbors in North Park House, what I'm learning from experienced entrepreneurs as part of Magnuson First Year Fellows and Energy Ventures, and highlights from my Political Ideas class (who knew Socrates had so much sass?).

Several students smile at the camera while standing on a log bridge over a stream.

Enjoying the scenery on More Strenuous Day Hiking—one of many First Year Trips accommodating all levels of experience! (Photo credit: Ethan F '29)

If there's any overarching truth about Dartmouth that I can immediately impart to you, it's that this college is a magical place. It's magic because you can be anything you want, do anything you find worthwhile, talk to anyone you find interesting. The possibilities are limitless. Every diverging path is an adventure to learn and grow from. And the people here are among the kindest and smartest I've ever met, fun-loving and go-getting at the same time.

Several students wearing hoodies and jackets pose on the summit of a mountain.

The clouds parted for just long enough to take a photo on the day my fellow trippees and I summited Mt. Moosilauke! (Photo credit: Ethan F '29)

You are at the mouth of a river, about to be swept into the ocean. Close your eyes. Take a breath. Let's see where the future takes us, shall we?

I hope you'll follow me on my journey as I explore all the people, places, and pines that make Dartmouth special!

Posted 02/9/2026 at 9:00 AMAll Text Posts

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