Background

1. Where did you grow up and what was life like there?

I grew up in Barrington, RI. Barrington is a small coastal town, situated about twenty minutes from Providence (as are most of the towns in the littlest state!). Growing up in Rhode Island was wonderful and I am grateful my parents raised me in such a tight knit-community. Living out of state for the first time, I sometimes find myself missing my home state’s quirky (yet endearing) dialect and penchant for coffee milk. My experiences growing up in Little Rhody taught me the value of community, as well as the importance of land conservation, the arts, and a good sense of humor.

2. Describe your parents and/or family members?

My Dad is an engineer for the Naval Undersea Warfare Center and my Mom works for the R.I. Veterans’ Home. I also have a younger brother who is in his freshman year of college, and two alarmingly inactive cats. My parents and my brother are hardworking and compassionate individuals. They each have a wonderful sense of humor and we really enjoy spending time together.

3. What was high school like? What were your favorite activities? Who inspired you?

I have always liked school, but I really loved the time I spent at Barrington High. The educators I encountered in high school were enthusiastic, conscientious and completely committed to teaching in the most engaging way possible. Classes were often demanding, but I always enjoyed my English, History, and Art courses. I had fun running Cross Country and Track, and I also liked working on yearbook and student council. While many of my teachers and coaches inspired me, my principal, John Gray, was the epitome of a strong and dedicated leader. Mr. Gray is perhaps one the most selfless individuals I have met, and it was an honor to watch his devotion to the betterment of the school community.

4. How did you discover Hamilton?

I owe my discovery of Hamilton to one of my high school friends. One afternoon, after attending a Hamilton info session, my friend approached me and announced, “Hamilton College. Small liberal arts school in the middle of nowhere. You will LOVE it. Look it up. Seriously, you’re going to go there.” Well, I did just that and sure enough, she was right! I visited the Hamilton campus, and the moment my family and I turned onto College Hill Road I knew Hamilton was the only college I wanted to attend. In my mind, no other school could compare to Hamilton. I applied Early Decision, and I have happily been here ever since.

5. What were your first impressions of the College? Do you find they’re still true today?

While growing up I always had a vision of what I wanted college to look like, and I remember my vision becoming a reality when my family and I drove up the hill for the first time. As soon as our car passed the homes on College Hill Road I knew Hamilton was the school. Although my initial impression was strictly based on the aesthetic appeal of the college, I attended an information session and felt as though admissions had read my mind, as they described everything I was looking for in a college. Later, while on a guided tour I could not stop smiling, and when it came time to leave I was so ridiculously happy I almost cried. Not only was Hamilton a beautiful, inviting campus, but students also appeared actively engaged and content with life on the hill. Fortunately I do find my initial impressions of the college true today. In fact, I love Hamilton more now than ever.

6. What Hamilton voices (professor(s)/coach(es)/advisor(s)) have inspired you? Why?

I have had the opportunity to take classes with some amazing professors and it is difficult to pick just a few who have inspired me. My professors, especially in the Sociology and History departments, have taught me to think critically and to really delve into my course materials. I continually find myself in awe of their intellect and ability to seamlessly connect with students. More broadly, I have noticed that most people at Hamilton are very passionate about the work they do, and I find such genuine enthusiasm and commitment very inspirational!

7. Have you volunteered as a student? If yes, what did you find most rewarding about the experience?

I have volunteered as a student and have especially enjoyed working for Habitat for Humanity in Utica, NY. Volunteering as a student is a great opportunity to strengthen Hamilton’s community on and beyond the hill. Habitat is particularly rewarding because it allows volunteers to see the positive results of their hard work, as well as the impact just a few individuals can make for a family and a community. Habitat brings together volunteers of all backgrounds, united in an effort to provide affordable housing for families in need, and it is always a pleasure to help the organization meet its goals.

8. What are your plans after Hamilton? Where do you want to live?

Well, to be honest, I am not sure what my plans are after Hamilton. I hope to go to graduate school, or perhaps apply for Teach for America, but I have not yet worked out the specifics. It would not surprise me if I ended up living somewhere on the East Coast, but I really hope to travel and explore different places and cultures before I settle down and live in any one area.