Alan Jacks ’17
For some, the decision to attend a certain on a college or university is created by an instant “aha” moment upon the first visit. For me, although I was instantly stuck by Dickinson, I was still hesitant to give the complete decision at that instant. I came to learn and continue to learn, however, that my deliberation was very natural and helpful, and that the decision to come to Dickinson was perhaps the best decisions I’ll ever make.
As a neuroscience major, I have been able to work with amazing faculty to learn about and help contribute to one of the most innovative and growing fields in science. The world class laboratories, including cutting edge equipment and live animal labs, coupled with knowledgeable and passionate staff have given me a learning experience second to none. In addition to this, with the push for global engagement, I was able to study abroad for a semester in Norwich, England to help broaden my academic knowledge past where students in other institutions are normally given the opportunity. Aside from my exceptional academic experience, I have been able to drastically broaden and strengthen myself through the extracurricular opportunities available. With so many organized clubs with passionate and dedicated leaders, it is very easy to find a place where I was able to not only continue in areas I previously participated, but I was able to try new things, meet new people, and take different perspectives all in a fun environment, as well as develop leadership roles. I was able to quickly find a home at Dickinson.
With all the opportunities available at Dickinson, I have been able to receive an internship notation with the help of a Dickinson Grant between semesters. Also, I have been able to develop an independent study alongside a Dickinson professor which allows me to get out in the community and create my own curriculum, focusing directly on my passions and interests.
Looking back now on the difficult decision of where I wanted to spend the next four years of my life, I am very confident I made the right decision by choosing Dickinson, and I am now even more confident in my future ahead of me thanks to Dickinson. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email me at jacksa@dickinson.edu with anything and everything, I would be more than happy to help. Go Red Devils!