Who is C.J. Blair?</h1> <article> <h1>Who is C.J. Blair?</h1> <p>ygay — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 20:17:55 +0000</p> <span>Who is C.J. Blair?</span> <span><span>ygay</span></span> <span><time datetime="2022-03-25T16:17:55-04:00" title="Friday, March 25, 2022 - 16:17">Fri, 03/25/2022 - 16:17</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p> </p> <hr> <p><strong>Full Name:</strong> <a href="/cj-blair" target="_blank">Craig Joaquin Blair Jr.</a> </p> <p><strong>Department and location on campus:</strong> The <a href="/admissions-and-aid/arts-and-sciences" target="_blank">College of Arts and Sciences Admissions</a> in the Hotel at 91ֱ��</p> <p><strong>Job title:</strong> Admissions Counselor</p> <p><strong>What does your job entail?</strong> Visiting high schools, reading applications, and convincing students to come to 91ֱ�� College.</p> <p><strong>How long have you been at 91ֱ��?</strong> Nine months this time around.</p> <p><strong>Why did you decide to join the Office of Admissions?</strong> I owe so much to 91ֱ��. It opened so many doors for me and helped me come into my own. This job gives me the opportunity to pay it forward while I figure out where to go next.</p> <p><strong>What do you enjoy most about your work?</strong> Interviewing prospective students. Virtual interviews allow me to speak with students from around the world, and I’m routinely floored by their stories and intelligence. Some of my interviewees have already committed to 91ֱ��, so I know we’re in good hands.</p> <p><strong>As a recent graduate, how do you find yourself relating to prospective Obies?</strong> I think we’re at oddly similar points in our lives. They’re transitioning into college, and I’m slowly transitioning out of it. I remember feeling both nervous and excited about the future at their age, so I always make sure to tell them how much they have to look forward to.</p> <p><strong>What questions do you find prospective students ask the most?</strong> Prospies often ask what a typical day at 91ֱ�� is like. I respond by describing my Fridays as a student, when I would play frisbee in the afternoon, then eat my bodyweight in co-op pizza, go to five hours of concerts, and swing dance until 1 a.m. </p> <p><strong>Are you still connected with the student community on campus?</strong> Yes! I’m seeing more live music than ever, and I sometimes sit in on ToadsCo, the amphibian-themed ExCo I started as a student. </p> <p><strong>What do you encourage students to do when they arrive on campus as new Obies? </strong>Dabble away! Nobody cares what your major is, and now’s not the time to specialize. If a class or club sounds remotely interesting to you, just sign up for it. It’s entirely possible you haven’t discovered your favorite subject or hobby yet. </p> <p><strong>Any recent personal achievements you would like to tell us about?</strong> I wouldn’t call it an achievement yet, but I’m currently making a documentary short film about a chronic health issue I’ve been dealing with. Hopefully I’ll actually finish it. Email me if you wanna help!</p> <p><strong>Do you have any hidden talents?</strong> I can identify several species of frog by their calls. Boo-beep!</p> <p><strong>What’s your favorite childhood memory?</strong> My parents are veterinarians, and I vividly remember growing up in a house full of outpatients including possums, boa constrictors, ducklings, and fawns. </p> <p><strong>Best vacation ever?</strong> I was lucky enough to receive a <a href="/news/cj-blair-wins-2018-watson-fellowship" target="_blank">Watson Fellowship</a> after I graduated, which allowed me to spend one year living in Greenland, Wales, Puerto Rico, Nepal, and Japan. I still can’t believe it happened.</p> <p><strong>Hobbies?</strong> Taking long, <em>long</em> walks, watching obscure art house movies, eating adventurously, and trying to play the saxophone/piano/guitar.</p> <p><strong>Favorite food?</strong> Great sushi and great curry. Also narwhal (thank you, Greenland). </p> <p><strong>Favorite quote or personal philosophy?</strong> “How vain it is to sit down to write when you have not stood up to live,” by Henry David Thoreau.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2022-03-25T12:00:00Z">Fri, 03/25/2022 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yvonne Gay</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Ever wonder what species of frog is bellowing in your backyard on late summer nights? Invite C.J. Blair ’18 over. He has a talent for identifying several species of frog by their calls. He’s also responsible for ToadsCo, the amphibian-themed ExCo at 91ֱ�� College. Learn more about Blair—including why his favorite childhood memories involve possums, boa constrictors, and fawns—in this installment of Who Am I? </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2580">Experimental College (ExCo)</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2583">College of Arts and Sciences</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">C.J. Blair '18, admissions counselor for the College of Arts and Sciences.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of Blair</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>This Week in Photos: The Big Send-Off</h1> <p>ygay — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 14:37:09 +0000</p> <span>This Week in Photos: The Big Send-Off</span> <span><span>ygay</span></span> <span><time datetime="2021-03-26T10:37:09-04:00" title="Friday, March 26, 2021 - 10:37">Fri, 03/26/2021 - 10:37</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>United States Postal Service bins line the floor and are stacked on mobile shelves in the Office of Admissions. This annual display serves as inspiration for this week’s photo series.</p> <p>After weeks spent pouring over applications, <a href="/college-admissions" target="_blank">College of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office</a> staff members load acceptance letters into postal bins, and the excitement builds. As 91ֱ�� College vehicles arrive and bins are placed onto trucks staff members begin to trickle outside. Throughout the years send-off day has been celebrated with cake and ice cream or a visit by Yeobie, the college mascot. But the day always ends with team members waving goodbye to the letters and trucks.</p> <hr> <p> </p> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Yeobie helps with taking bins to the trucks. Photo credit: Brittnei Sherrod ’11</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Photo credit: Brittnei Sherrod ’11</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Photo credit: Brittnei Sherrod ’11</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Photo credit: Brittnei Sherrod ’11</figcaption> </figure> </div> <p style="text-align: center;"><br> <em>This Week in Photos is a selection of images and is not meant to represent a weekly timeline. Images highlight campus, community, people, and events related to 91ֱ�� College.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2021-03-26T12:00:00Z">Fri, 03/26/2021 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yvonne Gay</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2354">Campus Life</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Julian Irland</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>This Week in Photos: Changes on Campus</h1> <p>ygay — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 20:08:38 +0000</p> <span>This Week in Photos: Changes on Campus</span> <span><span>ygay</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-08-18T16:08:38-04:00" title="Tuesday, August 18, 2020 - 16:08">Tue, 08/18/2020 - 16:08</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>This week we visit some of the changes on campus, join a summer campus tour, read motivational messages, and end with views of familiar places.</p> <hr> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Tents around campus will be used for classes. Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>An Admissions campus tour. Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Williams Field House is converted into a COVID testing site for faculty, staff, and students. Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>A walk though Tappan Square. Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Professor of Biology Mary Garvin prepares the pollinator garden for classes. Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>Motivational messages in Peters Hall remind passers-by to “keep on keepin’ on.” Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>The Allen Memorial Art Museum still illuminates at night. Photo credit: Yvonne Gay</figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="obj-center"> <figure class="captioned-image"> <figcaption>This week’s series ends with a relaxing visit to 91ֱ��’s Arboretum, a preserve with trails, creeks, bridges, and, of course, trees. Along with the wooded section, the Arb also has a reservoir, split into two lakes. Photo credit: Arisa Williams ’06</figcaption> </figure> </div> <p> </p> <p><em>This Week in Photos is a selection of images and are not meant to represent a weekly timeline. Images highlight campus, community, and other events, people, etc. related to 91ֱ�� College.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-08-18T12:00:00Z">Tue, 08/18/2020 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yvonne Gay</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Adjustments to a new kind of normal have led many to wonder what to expect when they come to campus. Maybe this will help: Although the changes are apparent—with many spaces receiving safety measure makeovers—they cannot overshadow the beauty of the campus and community.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2378">Allen Memorial Art Museum</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25251">Biology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/biology" hreflang="und">Biology</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Desks are socially distanced in a classroom in King.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Yvonne Gay</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>91ֱ�� Connects with Accepted Students in New Ways</h1> <p>hhempste — Sun, 12 Apr 2020 21:53:25 +0000</p> <span>91ֱ�� Connects with Accepted Students in New Ways</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2020-04-12T17:53:25-04:00" title="Sunday, April 12, 2020 - 17:53">Sun, 04/12/2020 - 17:53</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Learn about the online events and resources available for those students in this Q&A with Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid <a href="/manuel-carballo">Manuel Carballo</a>, Associate Dean of the College of the Arts and Sciences <a href="/laura-baudot">Laura Baudot</a>, Vice President for Communications <a href="/ben-jones">Ben Jones</a>, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs <a href="/peter-swendsen">Peter Swendsen</a>, and Conservatory Admissions Counselor Ryan Dearon.</p> <p><strong>In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, All Roads Lead to 91ֱ�� efforts have moved completely online. What’s been the administration’s strategy to successfully execute this program virtually?</strong></p> <p><strong>Manuel Carballo</strong>: Our strategy has been much more involved than simply translating the traditional All Roads Lead to 91ֱ�� programming to a virtual space. Programming has evolved way beyond the three planned on-campus sessions, with various new entry points for students and their families. The focus has been threefold: to offer lots of great content that reveals different aspects of the 91ֱ�� community; to provide opportunities for engagement with our students, faculty, and staff through interactive sessions; and to allow spaces for admitted students to engage with each another. Having these opportunities available right when decisions were released was important. </p> <p><strong>Laura Baudot</strong>: Right away, we developed an even greater level of strategic collaboration among Admissions, Communications, and the Deans' Offices in order to mobilize the entire campus for our yield efforts. The faculty in particular have been incredibly responsive and helpful. As Manuel mentioned, it was important to not confine outreach and programming to the previously-scheduled All Roads dates, but instead to begin well-orchestrated and varied programming and outreach immediately following the release of decisions. We will continue these efforts up until the enrollment deadline. Connecting with admitted students “live” as often as possible also has been a critical piece. The <a href="/admissions-and-aid/for-accepted-students/virtual-visits/covid-19-course">Uncovering COVID-19</a> course was designed to help them connect to the institution, specifically to 91ֱ�� students and faculty. We were thrilled when more than 500 admitted students enrolled in the course!</p> <p><strong>Ryan Dearon</strong>: For the Conservatory Admissions Office, we have been trying our best to offer similar experiences for our admitted students to experience 91ֱ��. Our strategy is focused on addressing the questions of admitted students and their families, and providing opportunities for the admitted students to connect with our current student body. To implement this, we have organized various virtual options throughout this month.</p> <p><strong>Ben Jones</strong>: Video has played a critical role in helping admitted students learn about 91ֱ��’s special culture and community. Last week we invited all students to submit short videos about any aspect of their 91ֱ�� lives and experiences — a favorite place, class, professor, club, memory, or even just what they’re missing most. The videos have started to roll in and they are wonderful! We are currently working on a similar initiative for faculty. In addition to the DIY videos, our media producer, Mathias Reed, has been working around the clock to produce original video features such as the <a href="https://vimeo.com/399336316">virtual campus tour</a> and <a href="https://vimeo.com/400754894">virtual conservatory tour</a>, in addition to archiving all of the live webinars for on-demand viewing, such as the <a href="https://vimeo.com/401453020/c3bbb9cded">Deans’ welcome</a>, the <a href="https://vimeo.com/404735794/1e9a05c0dc">Music Opportunities for A&S Students</a> panel, and the <a href="https://vimeo.com/405160783/6adf13bce1">Housing and Dining</a> panel.</p> <p><strong>Can you describe the kinds of virtual events that have taken place so far?</strong></p> <p><strong>Manuel Carballo</strong>: From virtual Q&A sessions, virtual hangouts, daily opportunities to sit in on live classes via Zoom, and themed panels, there have been a lot to choose from. One of the most exciting events was our Virtual Academic Fair, which included representation from all College departments and allowed admitted students to attend departmental open houses via Zoom to have their questions answered and meet the faculty in their departments of interest.</p> <p><strong>Ryan Dearon</strong>: Thus far, the Conservatory Admissions Office has offered "Con Chats" to meet current students and learn about student culture, Q&A sessions for admitted conservatory and double degree students, a Facebook Live event, a welcome from our deans in the Conservatory, and we have also recorded our tour and information session for those who haven't been to campus to see and learn a bit about the Conservatory. There is still so much more to come!</p> <p><strong>Ben Jones</strong>: The Conservatory just announced <a href="/conservatory/stage-left">91ֱ�� Stage Left</a> — as in, the only stage left! — a series of live performances, lectures, and related programming that will feature Conservatory faculty and students as well as some special guests.</p> <p><strong>How has the college been publicizing these programs?</strong></p> <p><strong>Manuel Carballo</strong>: A series of regular email communications is the primary driver, including a weekly digest that promotes the most important events. All of the programming also resides on the virtual visit programs page, and reminder texts have gone out to students for some of the larger events.</p> <p><strong>Ryan Dearon</strong>: Most of our events have been communicated via email, on <a href="/admissions-and-aid/for-accepted-students/conservatory-virtual-experience">our new Conservatory virtual experience website</a>, the new events calendar for admissions, and through various social media channels.</p> <p><strong>How have the virtual sessions been received by prospective students and families?</strong></p> <p><strong>Laura Baudot</strong>: We’re hearing from many admitted students and families that we’re offering a lot more than the other schools to which they’ve been admitted, and it has been very well received.</p> <p><strong>Manuel Carballo</strong>: So far it's been great! The academic fair saw students hanging out at the virtual tables much longer than they would have in the traditional on-campus format. We've heard that students are excited to learn more about 91ֱ�� and get their questions answered. </p> <p><strong>Peter Swendsen</strong>: The best-attended webinar I’ve been a part of thus far— and I’ve done at least a half dozen—was the one for A&S students with an interest in music. For that one, and for College- and Con-specific events, it’s been wonderful to talk about all the new cross-divisional opportunities that exist on campus: students being able to minor in the “other” division, all the <a href="/interdivisional-programs">new cross-divisional, thematic programs</a>, etc. It was so important to have those designed, approved, and on the books by this time of year, and I find myself feeling grateful to all of the many people who helped those come to fruition whenever we have the chance to talk about them with admitted students.</p> <p><strong>Ben Jones:</strong> I managed the Q&A for the Deans’ Welcome webinar. We received well over 100 questions, and all of them were great! I think the Deans managed to answer 60 questions, which was heroic but still only about half. I hear that it’s been that way for almost all of the webinars. I had high hopes for the level of engagement we’d see, but this has surpassed all of my expectations.</p> <p><strong>What programs are slated to take place in the near future?</strong></p> <p><strong>Manuel Carballo</strong>: Themed panels will continue, as well as more opportunities for parents to engage with us. Aside from these virtual events, the admissions staff has reached out individually to all regular decision admits to make a personal connection and have the opportunity to answer questions. This week, current students will also reach out to the admits.</p> <p><strong>Ryan Dearon</strong>: For the Conservatory Admissions Office, we are preparing some exciting ways for students to visit classes virtually, see performances, and learn more about performance opportunities in the Con.</p> <p><strong>Ben Jones</strong>: We’re continuing to promote the DIY student video project and hoping the momentum will continue. Faculty also have reached out with some creative ideas around virtual lectures, and we’re exploring how we might create a series there.</p> <p><strong>Why are these methods an effective way of connecting with prospective students?</strong></p> <p><strong>Laura Baudot</strong>: The fact that there are so many different ways for prospective students to connect live with 91ֱ�� faculty, students, and staff —and each other— means that they can get a good feel for the community despite not being able to visit campus. The fact that we got started right away and that the offerings have been rich, consistent, and organized also demonstrates a real commitment to helping students really get to know 91ֱ�� despite the physical distance. </p> <p><strong>Manuel Carballo</strong>: These events have offered an opportunity for more admitted students to connect with 91ֱ�� in a way that goes beyond the on-campus offerings that would only have been experienced by the smaller subset of admitted students that are able to attend All Roads in person each year.</p> <p><strong>Peter Swendsen</strong>: The same thing is true online as is true in person: current students are our best storytellers and recruiters. They are such incredible people and so generous in welcoming new students to our community. It’s always a pleasure to be on panels with them and see them in action.</p> <p><strong>Ben Jones</strong>: Despite the extraordinary challenge of COVID-19, I think this has been an opportunity for us to really learn and grow, relative to our annual yield efforts. Even when we return to the normal on-campus All Roads programming, I am hopeful that we’ll continue many of the new virtual efforts too. In particular— and I hope Dean Kamitsuka and the faculty won’t be mad at me for saying this—I’d love to see 91ֱ�� offer a second-module course for admitted students every year, given the obvious popularity of this year’s offering. Hopefully not all of them will be on current pandemics, however!</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-04-12T12:00:00Z">Sun, 04/12/2020 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, accepted students are being offered new ways to experience 91ֱ��—without actually coming to campus.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2359">Administration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2410">Students</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2354">Campus Life</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">An aerial view of Wilder Bowl.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Matthew Lester</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Q&A with Ana Richardson ’18</h1> <p>hhempste — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 19:52:50 +0000</p> <span>Q&A with Ana Richardson ’18</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2019-09-20T15:52:50-04:00" title="Friday, September 20, 2019 - 15:52">Fri, 09/20/2019 - 15:52</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/ana-richardson">Ana Richardson</a> ’18, admissions counselor, works in the College of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office and is part of the multicultural recruitment team. While at 91ֱ��, Richardson studied neuroscience and psychology and was on the track and field team. She began her role in admissions in July 2019.</p> <p>Get to know more about Richardson in this Q&A.</p> <p><strong>Describe your role in six words.</strong></p> <p>I love 91ֱ��, so should you!</p> <p><strong>What’s the best advice someone gave you?</strong></p> <p>You can't please everyone. If you try to, you will always be working to please other people instead of yourself.</p> <p><strong>Most regrettable fashion choice?</strong></p> <p>I use to rock Peppermint Patty (from the Peanuts comic) bangs in middle school.</p> <p><strong>Do you have a favorite concert?</strong></p> <p>No Name Gypsy at the ‘Sco.</p> <p><strong>What was your favorite class in college? </strong></p> <p>Professor Cal Biruk’s Medical Anthropology class was my favorite. In it, we considered how the history of medicine is deeply entangled with cultural bias, and we examined the way in which scientific language has the ability to be dangerous. We also thought about the importance and influence of people’s beliefs about diseases and how we attach social meaning to these diseases. As a science major, it was very eye-opening and important to think of how medicine is related to individuals and the impact that diagnosis has on people’s lives.</p> <p><strong>Who are the most important people in your life?</strong> </p> <p>My little brothers are the most important people in my life. I love seeing Jahi, Eric, Charlie, and Aidan become positive, hardworking, compassionate, and free-thinking individuals. When I am with my brothers, I am in my happy place! </p> <p> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2019-09-20T12:00:00Z">Fri, 09/20/2019 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>“Q&A with…” is a series dedicated to introducing staff members to the 91ֱ�� community. Is there someone you’d like to nominate? <a href="mailto:communic@oberlin.edu">Please get in touch</a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Admissions Counselor Ana Richardson ’18.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Q&A with Cora Hasegawa ’19</h1> <p>hhempste — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 16:14:48 +0000</p> <span>Q&A with Cora Hasegawa ’19</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2019-08-27T12:14:48-04:00" title="Tuesday, August 27, 2019 - 12:14">Tue, 08/27/2019 - 12:14</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Recent graduate Cora Hasegawa, admissions counselor, works for the College of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office. She describes her role as helping students find the right college. “Hopefully that college is 91ֱ��, but I also know that 91ֱ�� isn't for everyone,” says Hasegawa. “My goal is to give students and their parents all the information they need to make the right decision for them.” Prior to this position, Hasegawa worked in admissions while she was a student, first as a tour guide and then as a senior fellow. </p> <p>Get to know more about Hasegawa in this Q&A.</p> <p><strong>Describe your role in six words.</strong></p> <p>Talk 91ֱ��, email 91ֱ��, travel 91ֱ��.</p> <p><strong>Favorite spot on campus?</strong></p> <p>My favorite place is near the First United Methodist Church and the conservatory, where OCTaiko practices at least three times a week. Being a part of OCT was one of the most meaningful parts of my time at 91ֱ��, and it is one of the most fulfilling things I have done with my life. I loved being a part of a group that combined my love for music and movement with my need to connect to a part of Japanese-American culture. As a group, we spent many late night practices in the church, bonding and growing as people. I have so many memories of the church and the people that I've met there that I can't help but feel a little more complete in that space.</p> <p><strong>What's your passion?</strong></p> <p>I've always loved all forms of visual art. When I was a kid I was crazy for ballet and desperately wanted to be a dancer; a large part of me still loves dance. My parents also encouraged me to explore my interests in art by taking me to museums and encouraging me to create my own artwork. When I was a sophomore in high school, I decided I wanted to be a filmmaker; I still do to this day. I was a cinema studies major at 91ֱ��, and I love watching movies—not just for the visuals but also for the stories. I love to analyze films and talk about them. To me, the ability to build a connection between people is the true power and beauty of art.</p> <p><strong>What’s the best advice someone has given you?</strong></p> <p>My mom has told me since I was a kid, “If you don't ask, the answer is already ‘no.’” That advice has really shaped who I am. It has given me the courage to strive for things that may seem out of reach and to believe that I am worthy.</p> <p><strong>What’s your favorite movie of all time? </strong></p> <p><em>Divine Intervention</em> by Elia Suleiman. I remember the first time I saw it was for my film class "Documenting the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict." Both the movie and the class blew my mind. The film is sort of like a Palestinian version of Wes Anderson, except with less plot and more explosions.</p> <p><strong>What's the most memorable concert you've seen?</strong></p> <p>My first concert ever was Johnny Hallyday. He's a French rock legend and the only non-politician to have his funeral procession go down the Champs-Élysées. I didn't know any of his music, but my French family took me to see him. I still can't believe I got to see him live.</p> <p><strong>What’s your favorite item of clothing? </strong></p> <p>My 1980's green French army jacket. I found in the Keep Cottage free box, and it has been my favorite thing ever since. I am always cold, so it's nice to have a light layer to throw on. I also have an enamel pin of a cat sumo wrestler and a pin of a blue chu-daiko (taiko drum) on the collar—they make me smile. </p> <p> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2019-08-28T12:00:00Z">Wed, 08/28/2019 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>“Q&A with…” is a series dedicated to introducing staff members to the 91ֱ�� community. Is there someone you’d like to nominate? <a href="mailto:communic@oberlin.edu?subject=Q%26A%20suggestion">Please get in touch</a>. <br> </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2551">Staff</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Admissions Counselor Cora Hasegawa ’19.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Office of Admissions Now Located in Gateway Center</h1> <p>hhempste — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 19:48:29 +0000</p> <span>Office of Admissions Now Located in Gateway Center</span> <span><span>hhempste</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-06-06T15:48:29-04:00" title="Tuesday, June 6, 2017 - 15:48">Tue, 06/06/2017 - 15:48</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Office of Admissions has moved from the Carnegie Building to its new home in the Peter B. Lewis Gateway Center on <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/dhqWqb2h42z">North Main Street and East College Street</a>. Visiting families were welcomed to the new space on Friday, May 5, 2017.</p> <p>Built to LEED Platinum standards, the <a href="http://new.oberlin.edu/gateway/photo.dot">Gateway Center</a> opened in 2016 as the cornerstone of 91ֱ��'s Green Arts District and is part of President Marvin Krislov’s visionary plan to create an environmentally sustainable center for community and a gateway to the downtown and college. The Gateway Center is also home to the Hotel at 91ֱ��, 1833 Restaurant, the Birenbaum Innovation and Performance Space, Lemle Center for Teaching Innovation and Excellence, and StudiOC (opening fall 2017).</p> <p>More than 12,000 individuals pass through the admissions office for a campus tour each year. With its move to the Gateway Center, the office will now function as a working visitor center with greater capacity to welcome families, ample seating and workspace, storage for luggage, and a technology bar. The space also adds offices dedicated to interviews, flex space for financial aid discussions, and a private conference room. The new location provides visiting families a convenient link to Gateway Center lodging and dining, along with proximity to performance space and glimpses of innovative classroom technology.</p> <p>Debra Chermonte, Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, stewarded the relocation of the Office of Admissions to this hub of activity and energy. The new office realizes Chermonte’s vision of a more collaborative office environment, as for the first time all admissions staff are together on a single floor. To recognize Chermonte’s years of dedication to 91ֱ��, the conference room is named in her honor.</p> <p>Along with its new location, the admissions office also received a new name. In honor of the outgoing chair of the Board of Trustees, the office is now called the Clyde S. McGregor ’74 Office of Admissions.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-05-11T12:00:00Z">Thu, 05/11/2017 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2561">Buildings</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-title field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">New Admissions Office</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> <div class="photo-gallery__slides"> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__wrapper"> <figure class="photo-gallery__slide"> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__image"> </div> <figcaption> <span class="figure__caption">The first visiting families were welcomed into the new Clyde S. McGregor ’74 Office of Admissions on Friday, May 5, 2017. Students were presented certificates honoring them as the first official visitors to the space.<br> </span> <span class="figure__credit">Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</span> </figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__wrapper"> <figure class="photo-gallery__slide"> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__image"> </div> <figcaption> <span class="figure__caption">The the new office functions as a working visitor center with plenty of seating and greater capacity to welcome families.<br> </span> <span class="figure__credit">Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</span> </figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__wrapper"> <figure class="photo-gallery__slide"> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__image"> </div> <figcaption> <span class="figure__caption">To recognize Vice President and Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid Debra Chermonte’s years of dedication to 91ֱ��, this conference room is named in her honor.<br> </span> <span class="figure__credit">Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</span> </figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__wrapper"> <figure class="photo-gallery__slide"> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__image"> </div> <figcaption> <span class="figure__caption">The new space includes a large reception area adjacent to a technology bar.<br> </span> <span class="figure__credit">Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</span> </figcaption> </figure> </div> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__wrapper"> <figure class="photo-gallery__slide"> <div class="photo-gallery__slide__image"> </div> <figcaption> <span class="figure__caption">To celebrate the first visiting families to the new office space, admissions staff surprised the high school students with cupcakes, cookies, and pennants.<br> </span> <span class="figure__credit">Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</span> </figcaption> </figure> </div> </div> <div class="photo-gallery__navbar"> <figure class="photo-gallery__navbar__item"> </figure> <figure class="photo-gallery__navbar__item"> </figure> <figure class="photo-gallery__navbar__item"> </figure> <figure class="photo-gallery__navbar__item"> </figure> <figure class="photo-gallery__navbar__item"> </figure> </div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Extra Visitors on Campus During All Roads Lead to 91ֱ��</h1> <p>Anonymous — Mon, 01 May 2017 14:53:18 +0000</p> <span>Extra Visitors on Campus During All Roads Lead to 91ֱ��</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2017-05-01T10:53:18-04:00" title="Monday, May 1, 2017 - 10:53">Mon, 05/01/2017 - 10:53</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Office of Admissions is hosting All Roads Lead to 91ֱ�� – the program where admitted students and their families visit campus and experience a condensed version of 91ֱ��, from residential life to academics and everything in between.<br> </p> <p>We typically get many compliments from our visitors on how friendly, warm, and open 91ֱ��’s students, faculty, and staff are. We are proud that our community welcomes admitted students and their families as if the were already members of our family. That’s a huge factor in helping students trying to decide if 91ֱ�� is the place where they will live, study, work, play, and thrive starting this fall.</p> <p>We expect almost 500 guests on April 14 alone! You will also see extra visitors on campus April 17 and 21.<br> </p> <p>Thank you in advance from the admissions staff for welcoming our guests – who we hope will be your future classmates and students.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-04-11T12:00:00Z">Tue, 04/11/2017 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2390">Events</a></div> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Admissions Sends Class of 2019 Decision Letters</h1> <p>Anonymous — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 18:20:09 +0000</p> <span>Admissions Sends Class of 2019 Decision Letters</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2016-11-07T13:20:09-05:00" title="Monday, November 7, 2016 - 13:20">Mon, 11/07/2016 - 13:20</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><em>Office of Admissions staff braved below-freezing temperatures on Friday, March 27, to celebrate as Class of 2019 decision letters were loaded into a mail truck. Accepted applicants have until May 1 to secure their place in the incoming class.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2015-03-30T12:00:00Z">Mon, 03/30/2015 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2546">Photo Feature</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Ma'Ayan Plaut ’10</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Admissions Policy for Undocumented Students Approved</h1> <p>Anonymous — Mon, 07 Nov 2016 18:20:42 +0000</p> <span>Admissions Policy for Undocumented Students Approved</span> <span><span>Anonymous (not verified)</span></span> <span><time datetime="2016-11-07T13:20:42-05:00" title="Monday, November 7, 2016 - 13:20">Mon, 11/07/2016 - 13:20</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>91ֱ�� College has approved a policy that allows admissions officers in the College of Arts and Sciences and Conservatory of Music to consider applications for admission from undocumented prospective students to be part of the domestic pool of applications. The policy reads:<br> </p> <blockquote> <p>91ֱ�� College considers undocumented students as domestic candidates for admission. Students who qualify for “deferred action,” and have achieved DACA status (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), are particularly encouraged to apply.</p> </blockquote> <p>“We have always welcomed applications from undocumented students,” says Debra Chermonte, vice president and dean of admissions and financial aid. “But because they are not U.S. citizens, we had, like most colleges, required them to apply as international students. In practice, though, admissions officers considered such applicants holistically within the scope of the domestic pool. This policy aligns our current practices with the public language we use to describe 91ֱ��’s policy with respect to undocumented students.”</p> <p>The federal government’s definition of an undocumented person is a foreign national who either entered the United States without proper authorization and documents, or who entered legally as a nonimmigrant and has since violated the terms of the status upon entering the U.S. or has overstayed the time limits of the original status.</p> <p>Yet most college-bound undocumented students have lived in the United States most of their lives, having been brought to the country at a young age by their parents. They are fluent in English, have attended elementary, middle, and high school in the United States, and have excelled academically. “They are much the same in preparation and intention as any other college-bound student in the United States,” says mathematics professor Susan Colley, chair of the General Faculty Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid. “An undocumented student applying as an international student feels like a miscategorization to admissions officers,” says Chermonte.</p> <p>While the <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2010/12/01/get-facts-dream-act">DREAM Act</a> (Development, Relief, Education for Alien Minors) would provide some means for certain undocumented students to attend college (or enlist in the military) and a path to citizenship, the proposed legislation has not yet been passed. As a temporary measure, President Obama signed a memo in 2012 allowing for “deferred action for childhood arrivals” (DACA) for certain undocumented young people who came to the United States as children and who have pursued education or military service here. <a href="https://www.dhs.gov/deferred-action-childhood-arrivals">Read the eligibility requirements for DACA status</a>.</p> <p>The significance of DACA status—and the reasons 91ֱ��’s new policy particularly encourages those who have DACA status to apply for admission—is that it allows undocumented students to enjoy a more typical college experience, including safe travel within and beyond the United States and eligibility for employment; however DACA status is not required for admission to 91ֱ��, says Chermonte.</p> <p>Growing interest within the 91ֱ�� community about educational opportunities for undocumented students, coupled with support from the senior staff and the Board of Trustees, led members of the admissions staff and the General Faculty Committee on Admissions and Financial Aid to begin working to codify 91ֱ��’s policy, says Chermonte. The policy statement was unanimously approved by the full committee on February 19, 2014, and was presented to the General Faculty Council on February 26, 2014.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">Campus News</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2014-02-26T12:00:00Z">Wed, 02/26/2014 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2556">Admissions</a></div> </div> </article> </main></body></html>