Hi everyone! Consider this one of my final blogs for 2024—though who knows, maybe there’s more to come! Today, I wanted to share a perspective that might differ from what you typically hear from students at Amherst.
I won’t dive too deeply into personal details, but I do want to take a moment to highlight one of the many incredible resources that Amherst College offers. Unlike many colleges and universities that close their doors between the first and second semesters and require students to leave campus, Amherst takes a more thoughtful and supportive approach. While the college does officially close during this period, it offers something called hardship housing, which allows students to apply for accommodations if they need to remain on campus.
For me, and likely for others, this resource has been invaluable. I found myself in a situation where I needed to apply for hardship housing, and while I won’t get into the specifics, I can say that having this option lifted a significant burden. Knowing that Amherst understands the diverse needs of its students and actively works to support them during what could otherwise be a challenging time speaks volumes about the college’s commitment to its community.
An added aspect of this support is how Amherst ensures students in hardship housing still have access to meals, even when the college’s dining hall, Val, is closed. Dining services provide a $45 daily voucher, which can be used at any restaurant within a 25-mile radius. This flexibility allows students to choose meals that suit their needs while staying within the budget Amherst generously provides.
This level of care is just one example of how Amherst goes above and beyond for its students, recognizing that support means more than providing academic resources—it’s about creating a safety net that ensures everyone feels cared for, no matter the circumstances. For those of you considering Amherst, it’s reassuring to know that this is a place where your well-being truly matters and if you perhaps have circumstances that don’t allow you to go back home, it is extremely helpful to have these resources.
While this support is incredibly helpful, staying on campus during the break can feel isolating, with only a handful of students around. In my next blog, I’ll share some ideas on how to stay busy and make the most of your time during this quiet period. I’ll also give you a glimpse into what I did during the first week of the break to keep myself occupied and connected. Stay tuned!