What I Wish I Knew Before Starting Amherst: Advice for High School Seniors

As a current first-year student at Amherst College, I’ve experienced the excitement, challenges, and growth that come with transitioning to college life. Reflecting on my journey so far, there are a few things I wish I had known before starting at Amherst. I hope this advice helps high school seniors who are about to embark…Continue Reading What I Wish I Knew Before Starting Amherst: Advice for High School Seniors

Litzy Castañeda ’28–Introduction

Hello everyone! My name is Litzy Castañeda, and I’m a first-year student (Class of 2028) from Bridgeport, California. I am currently pursuing a major in Psychology. In addition to my academic pursuits at Amherst, I contribute to The Amherst Student as a features writer. Outside of school, I enjoy volunteering with leadership and journalism-focused non-profits,…Continue Reading Litzy Castañeda ’28–Introduction

Packing Guide for International Students

Family members and administrators help Amherst students move into their dorms.

Hello! Welcome to my blog. First of all, congratulations on your admission to Amherst College! Now it’s time for the most exciting but sometimes overwhelming activity: deciding what to bring from your home country to your school in the US. There are so many things I wish I brought with me my first year, and…Continue Reading Packing Guide for International Students

Life As a First-Year in Charles Pratt Dormitory

Exterior view of Charles Pratt Dormitory

When I received my housing assignment and roommate the summer before my freshman year, I called my best friend jumping for joy. I was lucky enough to be assigned to the “hotel dorm,” the most hyped dorm amongst first-year students: Charles Pratt. Three weeks went by, and before I knew it, it was move-in day!…Continue Reading Life As a First-Year in Charles Pratt Dormitory

Podette and Shelloise: A Lovely Dinner at Val

Hey everyone! I’m Podette, a snail who attends Amherst College. Over the summer, I am living on campus and working as an admissions intern. Today, I got dinner at Valentine Dining Hall (“Val”) with my best friend Shelloise and our roommate Finley.  Shelloise and I both have dietary restrictions (we are both vegan and prefer…Continue Reading Podette and Shelloise: A Lovely Dinner at Val