Student Interviewers

Molly Anderson ’14

Hometown: Kirkland, Wash.
Academic Interest: English
Activities: Jive Turkeys Ultimate Frisbee, WDCV FM, Delta Nu, English Department Student Advisory Committee

As a West Coast Native, my time so far at Dickinson has been full of new experiences, people and ideas. Coming from relatively far away was a big leap, so I knew that I wanted a school with a strong, engaged community. Dickinson has provided just that. It didn’t take long for me to get plugged in to a diverse set of groups on campus, from the Ultimate Frisbee team to the student-run radio station to the English department.

Whether the mealtime discussion is about Paradise Lost, applying for study-abroad programs, global environmental issues or just an upcoming Ultimate Frisbee tournament, I feel fortunate to live and study on a campus of such engaged, diverse people. I love Dickinson, and could probably talk your ear off about it, but I’m excited to work with the admissions department to hear from you about what you’re passionate about, and what you would bring to the proverbial table.

Faith Andrews ’13

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Academic Interests: economics and German
Activities: College Farm volunteer, Track and Field, German Club

After participating in a two-week high school exchange program in Germany, I was bitten by the travel bug. My goal was to see the world and to fully immerse myself in the German language and culture. Dickinson helped me achieve that goal, and my experience abroad surpassed all expectations I had going into my junior year. While I was in Germany, I took intensive language classes in Heidelberg, spent a semester taking courses in German at the University of Bremen, had a two-month internship at an international bank in Frankfurt, and concluded my time abroad with a trip through five European countries. Throughout all of these experiences, I was constantly drawing on the skills I had learned at Dickinson: self-reliance and open-mindedness to different people, perspectives and experiences.

From working at the Dickinson College Farm to my involvement in the German department as a peer tutor and German Club officer to participating on the track and field team, my Dickinson experience has been one of many colors. The experiences I have had so far and the different people I met and befriended along the way have challenged my traditional way of thinking, which has made me an even stronger thinker, worker, leader and global citizen. I have Dickinson, my professors, and peers to thank for all of the opportunities I have had and the ones that continue to open up to me, which most recently includes a summer internship with JP Morgan Chase in New York City. Despite Dickinson’s small size, it has an immense wealth of resources, opportunities, perspectives, and people that contribute to it providing a superior education that I can apply to all aspects of my post-Dickinson life.

Andrew Bell ’14

Hometown: Latrobe, Pa.
Academic Interest: biochemistry & molecular biology
Activities: Liberty Cap Society Tour Guide, Liberty Cap Society Executive Board, Intramural Soccer/Basketball, Pre-Health Society, Lifeguard

Coming from a small, all-male boarding school that I loved, I was wary of how my time at Dickinson would compare. Despite my initial doubts, my time here has been unbelievable. Dickinson had me at “hello,” or more appropriately, at the Orientation—I began to love the school more than I knew was possible.

I have chosen to major in biochemistry & molecular biology and I am a part of the pre-health program as I hope to pursue a career in medicine. The reason I have chosen this path is because I feel a personal connection to the impact medicine can have on a person’s life.

This past summer I lived in New York City doing research at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine. The research I was involved in focused on HIV disease host-pathogen interactions and APOBEC3 enzymatic activity. I can say confidently that the knowledge I harnessed in the classroom at Dickinson allowed me to succeed in a practical setting at my internship—I am already looking forward to my next summer research experience.

If you have any questions or concerns about Dickinson or the “college process” please feel free to e-mail me at bella@dickinson.edu.

Travis Brown ’13

Hometown: Plano, Texas
Academic Interest: mathematics
Activities: Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Pi Mu Epsilon Honor Society, Russian Club, LeaderShape, Student Director of Orientation, Web Advisory Committee, Math and Computer Science Major’s Committee, Computer Science Help Room, Mathematics Teaching Assistant

When I sat down to write my bio, I had a very hard time thinking of a way to make it fun, and not just another list of things I am interested in. So, I decided to have the people I work with help me out. All summer I was working full time in the Campus Life Office. I asked the people I work with to each write one short sentence about me, and I included them here:

“Travis reminds me of Harry Potter both in look and personality. If sorted correctly he would most definitely be put into Gryffindor for his bravery and courage.”

“Travis Brown’s smile gives you a feeling that rivals the feeling you get when you see a small puppy.”

“Travis is like a run on sentence because tennis balls bounce off him well, he enjoys blogging, Texas, Orientation (of course), and he often rides unicorns; he is that magical [editor’s note: Unicorns do not exist].”

“I trust Travis Brown to watch my kids, and my dog, which is more important.”

“His quick wit makes even the most routine tasks fun.”

“Travis is, like, totes cool and hot, and rocks it at Skyrim. You definitely want to sit down to a bowl of pineapple chunks with him. I think he gets pretty good grades too, which is awesome. [editor’s note: we have no idea what pineapple chunks is]”

“Travis is from Texas and drives a Mustang, yet he’s a math major and speaks Russian.”

“Travis does an impeccable job dealing with the many facets of his job as the Student Director of Orientation.”

“Stylish and debonair, Travis, who spent the summer working with the Orientation program the Office of Campus Life, is an enthusiast of deadpan comedy, military history, and all things Carlisle. Looking for a restaurant suggestion downtown? Travis is your man.”

There it is, me according to Campus Life. I would now like to take some time to thank our contributing authors, Annie Kondas, Michael Blair, Pavan Purswani, Laurie Henry, Amy Fynes, Tim Poirier, Dan Confer, Tricia Contino, and Rob Richardson. Thanks everyone, you’re all fantastic!

Ryan Buck ’13

Hometown: Kansas City, Mo.
Academic Interests: French and music
Activities: Greek life, a cappella, club sports

Born and raised in Kansas City, I have Midwestern roots well in me; but English was the only language by far. I loved studying abroad and finally putting my French to good use. Making friends, riding the metro, going to class was entirely in French which at first was a huge chore. It felt like class was happening 24 hours a day. Then as time went on, French became enjoyable to speak and be understood.

Andrew Chesley ’13

Hometown: Winnetka, Ill.
Academic Interests: mathematics and economics
Activities: Student Senate, Mock Trial, Orientation

I'm the President of Student Senate, which occupies most of my time outside of the classroom. I'm involved in many levels of college governance, and in addition, I'm currently serving on the Presidential Search Committee. I'm something of a nerd, so don't be alarmed if I get overly interested in your academic work during an interview.  

Emily David ’13

Hometown: Wilmington, Del.
Academic Interests: English and creative writing
Activities: Vice President of Delta Nu, Men's Lacrosse Statistician

I've tried to immerse myself in many parts of campus over my four years here: I have been a part of the Microcosm, our yearbook, and The Dickinsonian staff. Also, I am involved in Greek life and work for a sports team as the men's lacrosse statistician. Most importantly, however, I have learned so much through my English major, creative writing minor, various political internships and studying abroad first semester of my junior year in Norwich, England.

If you have any questions about student life, academics, or internships and the career center, I'm here to answer them! Look forward to chatting with you!

Alex Egner ’13

Hometown: Willow Street, Pa. (the town is called Willow Street, I swear!)
Academic Interests: political science, American history, Middle East studies, security studies
Activities: College Republicans, Boy Scouts of America, ROTC, Dickinson Christian Fellowship

I was born and raised in Lancaster County, Pa., and attended high school at Lampeter-Strasburg. At Dickinson I have had the opportunity to study various subjects taking courses ranging from military science to dance. Dickinson and the Carlisle area have allowed me to pursue many of my interests. Political science is my first major and the exciting in-classroom portion has led me to become actively involved in the local politics of Central Pa, become the president of the Dickinson College Republicans, and co-chair the Political Science Majors Committee. My conservative values had an opportunity to both grow and be challenged when I had the opportunity to work on several activities with my democratic counterpart Jake Sternberger ’13, whose liberal views would have made us naturally opposed if it wouldn’t have been for Dickinson’s open and respectful community. My emphasis in security studies has blossomed because of the great opportunities I have had through the Army War College and the professors we share.

Secondly, my love of history has bloomed because of Dickinson. The rich history in the area combined with the expertise of the professors has led me to be actively involved with the history of Dickinson and the Central PA area. I have learned so much from studying about the old court house and the exciting area that was Carlisle during the civil war.

My third and final major, Middle East studies truly grows purely from Dickinson. I knew almost nothing about the Middle East until coming to Dickinson where I was confronted with the idea of studying Arabic. This interest developed into a full blown passion as I began to study the cultures and history of the people in the Arab world. I look forward to traveling to Morocco in January as part of a mosaic program run through Dickinson.

Dickinson has allowed me to study three distinct subject matters, the variation among them is great and my ability to learn about them and the different aspects comes purely from the liberal arts education and the global view that Dickinson focuses on. In each class and area I learn about not only the individual subject but I am given the opportunity to truly engage in the subject whether it be helping in a local election or traveling to Morocco, these types of experiences are distinctively Dickinson.

Matt Halvorson ’13

Hometown: Bethlehem, Pa.
Academic Interests: psychology, sociology
Activities: Soccer, Infernos, Fellowship of Christian Athletes

While at Dickinson, I have had the opportunity to study abroad in Australia at the University of Queensland. One thing I have learned from Dickinson is the importance of individual initiative. Growing up, I have avoided decision making and deferred leadership to others who were more confident or outgoing. Dickinson has a way of giving its students opportunities to lead in ways that they hadn't thought of before. Whether it is playing an active role in determining your own major with the help of your adviser or talking to student senate about creating a new club on campus, there are so many different avenues through which you can expand your mind and abilities during your time at Dickinson.

Looking back, I am extremely happy that I got involved on campus and had friends who encouraged me to do so when I was hesitant. Without that initiative, I would have missed many great experiences and friendships. With that initiative, I have found Dickinson to be a great place to foster my growth academically and personally.

If you want to hear more about my experiences at Dickinson or have any other questions about finding your niche at college, please feel free to e-mail me at halvorsm@dickinson.edu.

Andrew Hill ’13

Hometown: Los Angeles, Calif.
Academic Interests: Africana studies, American studies

I am actively involved in the African American Society as club liaison; MANdatory as a student-leader; M.O.R.E. (Men Overcoming Restrictive Expectations) leadership team; Sustained Dialogue as a moderator; and was selected as a member of Dickinson's service-based honor society, Scroll & Key.

One of my most impactful experiences through Dickinson was my service trip to the Dominican Republic last winter. Working and living with other Dickinsonians that, although I had seen in passing, I had never known. It was experience that fostered an appreciation for the greatness and potential in others, and an impetus to make more friends in more places on campus.

On campus, my experience in African American Society has gone full circle. I've been in the organization since the early weeks of my freshman year. That year the upperclassmen introduced me to the discussions that would frame my involvement in Posse and my other organizations, as well as my choice of majors. It gave me a friend-base and support system. Since then I have met students been fortunate to mentor new leadership, coordinate events with Gettysburg, F&M and Susquehanna Black Student Organizations. I've have grown in it and grown with it. 

Leah McNamara ’13

Hometown: Littleton, Colo.
Academic Interests: international business & management and economics
Activities: Student Senate Treasurer, Writing Center Consultant and First Year Seminar Writing Associate, Global Gastronomy Group, Russian Club, Kosher Cooking Club

After spending part of my childhood in Indonesia I have had a passion for all things foreign. I am studying Russian at Dickinson and I participate in several international culture and cooking clubs. I recently returned from a semester abroad in Norwich, England, and I spent my summer at Wells Fargo interning in international banking.

In the coming year I look forward to swapping abroad stories with fellow Dickinsonians and hearing about the passions of prospective students!

Mike Meyers ’14

Hometown: Warren, N.J.
Academic Interest: political science
Activities: Liberty Cap Society, Treasurer of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, President of Class of 2014, Finance Committee.

As a political-science major I am extremely interested in politics. This past summer I interned at Congressman Leonard Lance's district office in Westfield, N.J., and for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. In the spring I plan to spend the semester in Washington D.C., where I hope to enroll in the Washington Center through American University.

During my time spent at Dickinson I have tried my hardest to experience as much as I can. Dickinson has inspired me to be an engaged member of not only the college community, but the global community as well. I would welcome the opportunity to share my story with you, and how I have benefited from a distinctively Dickinson education.

Kristina Niedermayer ’13

Hometown: Philadelphia, Pa.
Academic Interest: history
Activities: Center for Global Study and Engagement Ambassador, Center for Global Study and Engagement Student Assistant, Liberty Cap, Elderly Bingo Volunteer

Though I attended high school in the suburbs of Philadelphia, I was born and raised in center city. When I began the college process, I considered many small liberal-arts colleges in the Northeast, but I decided that Dickinson was the place for me. I applied Early Decision and the rest is history.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Dickinson, something I attest to the influential professors I have had the pleasure to get to know, and the lifelong friends I have made. I spent my junior year off campus. In the fall, I studied in Toulouse, France. In the spring, I participated in the The Washington Center, an academic internship program. There, I completed a full-time internship at a public relations company. This past summer, I worked as a marketing intern for a D.C.-based start-up company called HelloWallet. I am thrilled to work in admissions, as I love getting to meet know people and share my love for the school with others.

Melissa Reif ’13

Hometown: McLean, Va.
Academic Interest: international studies
Activities: Hillel, Kappa Alpha Theta, Anwar Bellydance, Kosher Cooking Club, Middle Eastern Club, Model UN

I am majoring in international studies with a concentration in Latin America and will also graduate with a minor in Latin American, Latino & Caribbean studies. I spent my junior year studying abroad in São Paulo, Brazil, and Malaga, Spain. Although I’ve traveled outside of the country before, studying and living abroad for an extended period of time is an experience that I will never forget.

By the end of both semesters abroad, I felt acclimated to the new culture and didn’t feel like a foreigner or tourist and I’m so glad that my academic experience at Dickinson gave me the opportunity to spend my year abroad in two different countries!

Claire Tighe ’13

Hometown: Park Ridge and Wilmette, Ill.
Academic Interest: women's & gender studies
Activities: Liberty Cap Tour Guide, Mermaid Players, The Infernos

A big hello from the apartments of High Street! I'm proud share that my experience as a Red (Green?) Devil have led me to deeply explore my interconnecting passions of feminism, environmental studies and the performing arts. As a "pinned" Mermaid Player, I have been in three main-stage productions, including Noises Off!, Caucasian Chalk Circle, Finding Don Quixote. I have also been singing with Dickinson's co-ed a cappella group, The Infernos.

Last year I participated in a research project through the Center for Sustainability Education regarding the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change meeting in Durban, South Africa. During the spring semester, I studied in Monteverde, Costa Rica, where I researched the gender politics of work in my farming community. ¡Qué rico! This year you can find me giving admissions tours to prospective students, as well as doing endless amounts of social science research in Denny Hall. I'm also proudly finishing my senior thesis in women's & gender studies while figuring out my life "beyond the limestone."

Alex Toole ’14

Hometown: Brunswick, Maine
Academic Interests: political science, French
Activities: The Octals, Student Senate, The Clarke Forum for Contemporary Issues, Liberty Cap Society

Coming to Dickinson, I had wanted to study journalism or media communications. After taking a few classes and meeting the department professors, I switched my interest to political science and have since loved every minute of my studies. My work at The Clarke Forum and the U.S. Army War College has supplemented my Dickinson education in numerous ways, and I look forward to studying abroad in Toulouse, France, where I plan to continue my studies in political science.

This summer I interned for my U.S. Senator, which even further augmented my Dickinson experience. In terms of extracurricular activities, I have really enjoyed singing in Dickinson's only all-male a cappella group, The Octals. It is in these types of groups that you will make some of your best friends, like I have.