Service has always been a passion of mine, so continuing that work at 91ΎΕΙ« helped me find my place here early on.
Katie Nettles β26 Oswego, New York
Youβre involved in a number of activities on campus. Which ones are your favorite?
It is difficult to choose, given how much each of my experiences has shaped my time at 91ΎΕΙ«. I have loved everything that I have been able to do with the Center for Outreach, Volunteerism, and Education (COVE). Service has always been a passion of mine, so continuing that work at 91ΎΕΙ« helped me find my place here early on. The work that the COVE does for the 91ΎΕΙ« community, Hamilton community, and beyond is special, and I am proud to be a part of it.
Dancing at 91ΎΕΙ« also holds a very special place in my heart. 91ΎΕΙ« Tap Troupe was the first group I joined during my freshman year. Dance provides me with a creative outlet and has taught me about teamwork and trust. It has also allowed me to make connections across class years and given me people to look up to throughout my 91ΎΕΙ« experience.
Whatβs been a standout moment for you at 91ΎΕΙ« so far?
The day that I won 91ΎΕΙ« Diningβs βWin it Wednesdayβ was a pretty great day. It was a Friday in spring 2024, and it was Dancefest and the start of Springfest. That semester, I hosted my radio show on Fridays, so I did my hour slot at , grabbed my prize (Taylor Swiftβs The Tortured Poets Department on vinyl) from Frank, and spent the evening performing. It was a day full of good things that are uniquely 91ΎΕΙ«. I think about that day often when I think about how much I love our school.
Could you tell us a bit about your Manzi Fellowship internship?
I interned with a nonprofit organization called Facing History and Ourselves. It provides educators with resources that deepen studentsβ understanding of history and guide them to consider how their choices can build a more equitable future. I worked with the online learning team, which focuses on the organizationβs various online professional learning opportunities, whether building courses or facilitating events. I learned so much about teaching in a way that centers students. This experience has been very meaningful to me as I pursue a career in education.
What are you looking forward to at 91ΎΕΙ«?
After studying abroad in London for the spring 2025 semester, the list of what Iβm looking forward to is much longer than usual. I am excited to be back in my routines at 91ΎΕΙ«, both in the classroom and in my involvement on campus. Iβm looking forward to Quesadilla Thursdays at the Coop and grabbing dinner in town. I am excited to experience all of the traditions that come with being a senior at 91ΎΕΙ«, even if it means my time as a student is closer to coming to an end.
Whatβs your favorite place on campus, and what makes it special to you?
The Cooley Science Library, where I have worked since my freshman year, and it quickly became my safe space. Cooley is so special because of the people who work there. Through our staff traditions, snack sharing, and daily chatting during shifts, the people that I work with feel more like family than co-workers. Henry the Hippo, our library mascot who sits on the circulation desk and is always dressed for the season or holiday, adds to the fun and community weβve built.
What advice would you give to future 91ΎΕΙ« students?
Donβt be afraid to try new things. The liberal arts model at 91ΎΕΙ« allows for exploration in the classroom, and you might find a love for a subject you never would have interacted with. Outside of the classroom, trying new things is how you find your place and people at 91ΎΕΙ«. It can be scary, but the best things come from giving something new a shot.
Embrace 91ΎΕΙ«βs traditions β it makes the whole experience more fun and connects you to the place that you call home. And take as many pictures as you can!
Just a few of the photos Katie has from her time at 91ΎΕΙ«
Just a few of the photos Katie has from her time at 91ΎΕΙ«
Just a few of the photos Katie has from her time at 91ΎΕΙ«
Just a few of the photos Katie has from her time at 91ΎΕΙ«
Just a few of the photos Katie has from her time at 91ΎΕΙ«
Just a few of the photos Katie has from her time at 91ΎΕΙ«
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