Rediscovering America

Julia Ormond '19

Julia Ormond ’19

As an American-studies major, and as a study-abroad student in Italy, California native Julia Ormond ’19 deepened her understanding of what it means to be an American and a global citizen. Below, she discusses the class that spurred her to declare her major, the people who inspire her most and the extracurricular activity that’s given her practical experience in learning to motivate and lead others.

Hometown:

Piedmont, California

Major:

American studies.

Clubs and organizations:  

Station manager of WDCV-FM.

Honors/scholarships/awards:

John Montgomery Scholarship, Women’s Leadership Program and Dean’s List.

Favorite book: 

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt.

Favorite movie:

Easy A.

On choosing a major:

I chose American studies because it is an amalgamation of many different humanities departments, and it allows students to explore multiple disciplines through an American studies lens. This major and its department have challenged and expanded my definition of America and what it means to be American. This education is applicable to every American citizen and is thus vitally important to me.

Favorite place on campus:

WDCV lounge.

Favorite Dining Hall food:

Chili from the KOVE.

Favorite class/learning experience:

My favorite class so far is Introduction to American Studies with [Associate] Professor [of American Studies] Cotten Seiler, because I learned a lot of American history and theories of structure and representation that I had not previously known.

On studying abroad:

I studied abroad in Bologna, Italy, in the spring of 2018. The highlight of that experience, besides eating delicious food every day, was meeting Italian families, such as my host family, and other study abroad students from across the world who were experiencing Bologna for their first time as well.

In a perfect world … 

… everyone would have the ability to empathize with others and recognize the institutionalized inequalities that form the structures of America.

Biggest influence:

My brothers are the largest influence in my life because they are very strong and loving people. My older brother inspires me with how he has so confidently become a functioning adult, and my younger brother always reminds me to stay true to myself!

Most important thing I’ve learned so far:

I’ve learned a lot of important skills and lessons from being the co-station manager of WDCV-FM, such as how to manage people, communicate with others who work differently than me and motivate people to do and love their work and contributions. It’s been a great learning experience that will most definitely benefit me when I leave Dickinson

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Published February 22, 2019