Student Snapshot: Olin Rhoads ’21

Olin Rhoads,

Multifaceted Olin Rhoads ’21 is a math major who enjoys history and poetry; he’s also a JDS scholar, Writing Center tutor, Resident Advisor, Math/CS club member and president of the Ultimate Frisbee club, as well as member of MOB, which brings live acts to campus.

Hometown:

Falmouth, Maine.

Major:

Mathematics, with a creative writing minor.

Clubs and organizations:

Resident Advisor, Writing Center tutor, MOB executive board, Junkyard Turkeys (president), Alpha Lambda Delta and Math/CS club.

Honors/scholarships/awards:

John Dickinson Scholarship and Dean’s List.

Favorite book:

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling.

Favorite movie:

Fantastic Mr. Fox.

Why/how I decided on my major:

I had really great math teachers in high school who inspired me to continue learning more about the many applications of mathematics. I’ve also always enjoyed writing, poetry in particular, and so a creative writing minor seemed like a way for me to nurture those skills.

Favorite place on campus:

Tome is home!

Favorite Dining Hall food:

KOVE salmon and sesame noodles.

Favorite class:

The Civil Rights Movement: North and South with [Assistant Professor of History] Say Burgin. We broke down the many misconceptions about the Civil Rights movement, particularly in the North, that we had been previously taught. Professor Burgin brought a lot of energy to every class and always seriously considered student input and insight.

Little-known hobby:

I have a large hat collection.

Favorite professor:

[Writing Program Director and Associate Provost of Academic Affairs] Noreen Lape has been my favorite professor so far at Dickinson. She challenged me in the classroom and now challenges me in the Writing Center to constantly reflect and improve, and this practice has carried over into all my roles on campus. She takes a lot of pride in the great work she does and isn’t afraid to discuss issues at hand.

As I kid, I wanted to be …

… a train conductor.

If I could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, it would be …

… Didier Drogba.

Biggest influences:

My parents, who gave me space when I wanted it and support when I needed it.

Favorite quote:

“I'm not superstitious, but I am a little ‘stitious.” —Michael Scott (The Office)

Most important thing I’ve learned so far:

Managing health is essential for academic and social success.

Read more Student Snapshots.

TAKE THE NEXT STEPS

Published July 26, 2019