Class of 2018

Summer is here! As I write this column in April, it’s hard to believe that one year ago we were getting ready for Commencement. How did that happen? In this edition of our Class Notes, our class reflected on the advice we would have liked to have heard one year ago and offered advice for the ’19s as they prepare to graduate from Dartmouth and enter the wide, wide world. You all had great tips that I hope the ’19s will take to heart as the newest Dartmouth graduates.

Andrew Sun shared some advice that I certainly wish I’d thought of before graduation: “Wear sunscreen.” I hope the ’19s fared well in the sun or at least that their burns will fade into summery tans!

Danica Rodriguez wrote, “First and foremost, breathe and enjoy your last few weeks. Don’t stress about the future too hard, even though it’s very tempting. If you don’t have it all figured out by graduation day, that’s perfectly fine, life works itself out. Also take as many daytime naps as you can, you will miss them so much.”

Lyam Torrens-Dodaj wanted to remind the ’19s, “Take advantage of every last moment and every last opportunity that Dartmouth offers. You might not think much of it now, but life goes on, and you might never get the chance again to hike that mountain, take a swim in the river, or ask your favorite professor for advice.”

An anonymous classmate shared, “Take a few risks. Now is when you have the least to lose. The older you get, the more commitments and dependents you’re expected to have. Don’t have the regret of not trying, and build your unrealized potential today.” This ’18 is striving to leave a mark in the areas of climate change and education reform and urges our class and others to take charge on the issues that matter most.

Adam Baillie observed, “Dartmouth is a fairly certain place; you typically know what is coming next, when the term ends, and when vacation begins. The real world doesn’t come with such luxuries; prepare to become comfortable with uncertainty.”

Andi Norman shared some very wise advice for all of us, “It’s okay to not know what is next. It is so okay to not know. And it’s okay to feel however you feel about it. But know this: Whatever is next—whenever it comes and wherever it takes you—is just the next stepping stone to your future success. Never be discouraged by not knowing.” Thank you to all who shared advice with the ’19s! I hope we and the ’19s all continue to carry these messages forward in our “real world” lives.

The class of 2018 has had an eventful spring! Danica Rodriguez accepted a position at the Public Theater in its casting department and just finished up assisting on Shakespeare in the Park. She writes, “If you’re in N.Y.C., love theater, and want to experience summer nights in Central Park, check it out!”

After graduation Adam Baillie moved to Orlando, Florida, to work with Disney Parks and Resorts as a quality engineer. He was just recently promoted to a fulltime position with the company. Congratulations, Adam!

Lyam Torrens-Dodaj married her husband, who she met on a Dartmouth advanced language study abroad in Italy. She also finished her first semester of nursing school. Wishing you the best, Lyam!

As always, thanks to everyone who shared stories and advice for this column. I’m looking forward to hearing about your wonderful summers!

—Emily Choate, 172 Commonwealth Ave., Apt. 3, Boston, MA 02116; (603) 305-5346; eschoate@gmail.com