Welcome to Dartmouth!
This issue is designed to answer any questions you may have, make you more acquainted with campus life and fill you in on important events in the College's history. After reading it, we hope you have a better understanding of Dartmouth.
This College is special in many ways, particularly in its treatment of freshmen. Rather than emphasizing that you are a lowly newcomer, Dartmouth celebrates you for who you are. The College community actively seeks to incorporate all students right from the start. In fact, your first term will be one in which you will have the most opportunities to participate in this institution's traditions.
Faculty, administrators and your fellow students will go out of their way to make you feel at home. The only stirrings of resentment from upperclassmen will be out of jealously -- you are a freshman, they are not. Indeed, the title " 'shman" is not one of degradation, but rather one that is highly coveted. Enjoy it while it lasts.
The cliche, as you've probably heard a dozen times, is grounded in truth -- your college years will fly by. As we were editing this issue, we couldn't believe two of our most precious college years had passed by so quickly. Not so long ago we had the same pangs of anxiety before going on our DOC trips and meeting our roommates for the first time.
You have four wonderful years ahead of you at Dartmouth. You'll start freshman year with a clean slate, as an equal among your peers. This coming year involves a lot of exploring -- whether it be in academic disciplines, social life or campus organizations. Take advantage of the diverse options Dartmouth has to offer. Approach college with an open mind, and don't hesitate to jump into new activities. Most of all, don't be discouraged by the unfamiliar environment.
We wish you the best of luck for a memorable freshman year and the rest of your Dartmouth career.
