Stepping Up
Carolyn Goode ’18
Carolyn Goode ’18 is focused on making a difference, whether volunteering at a food bank in Detroit, spending a service weekend in Washington, D.C., or educating peers about the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. Here, she talks about what she learned from her twin brother, the value of helping others, the importance of close listening and the class that inspired her to declare her major.
Major:
Women’s, gender & sexuality studies.
Clubs and organizations:
Alpha Phi Omega, Service Trip (leader), Hillel, J street U and College Choir.
Favorite book:
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Favorite movie:
The Sound of Music or Les Mis.
On choosing Dickinson:
I wanted a small liberal-arts college. My mom went here (class of ’83), so when I saw Dickinson on the list my high school college guidance counselor made for me, my immediate reaction was, “What? No, that probably won’t happen!” We ended up visiting, and of course, I fell in love with Dickinson immediately. I thought the campus was stunning, the academics sounded wonderful and there was so much to do on campus. Every time I visited Dickinson after that, I kept feeling happier and happier about it, so I decided to apply Early Decision. The rest is history!
Favorite place on campus:
Red leather chair area in the bookstore. I like sitting there in between classes, reading or doing work.
Favorite Dining Hall food:
Crab cakes, for sure. I always get so excited when they serve them.
On choosing a major:
Women’s and gender studies had always been in the back of my mind, because I identify as a feminist, and I love the idea of empowering women. But I was undecided until I took the Intro to Women’s & Gender Studies class with [Visiting] Professor [of Women's & Gender Studies] Katherine Schweighofer (affectingly called Dr. S.) last semester. I absolutely fell in love with the topic and the way Dr. S. presented our readings and discussions. It was fascinating. I declared halfway through the semester and have been so happy with my decision.
As a kid, I wanted to be …
… a teacher.
Most important thing I’ve learned so far:
I’ve learned so much already at Dickinson, but I guess what stands out is that I should listen to my peers, and I should step up to help when I can. Though they sound simple, these lessons have opened so many doors for me, whether it’s meeting new people or doing community service. I have become so much more aware of social justice issues, both on our campus community and in the world. My passion for social justice also has pushed me to become a leader, as I co-led a spring break service trip to Detroit and a weekend Washington, D.C., service trip. Both were challenging but rewarding, and I learned so much.
Biggest influence:
Aside from my mom and dad, my twin brother, Jeremy, has definitely had the biggest influence on my life. He’s taught me so much, from simple things like sharing to navigating friendships and life in general. Being separated from him in college has made his influence on me seem even more apparent.
Post-Dickinson plans:
There are so many amazing and different directions I could go in, but I do know that I ultimately want to help people. I am so excited about the possibilities!
Learn more
- “Digging In”
- Department of Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies
- Civic Engagement
- More Student Snapshots
- Latest News
Published November 22, 2016