Student Snapshot: Caitlin Blackman '25
Caitlin Blackman ’25 is a law & policy major with a minor in Arabic who’s set her sights on a career in the federal government. She’s also a varsity basketball player who chose Dickinson in part because of the opportunities it offers to compete as part of a D-III team. Below, Caitlin discusses the importance of trying new things in college, the professor who's given her courage to tackle an unfamiliar language and more.
Hometown:
Gainesville, Virginia.
Major:
Law & policy, with minor in Arabic.
Clubs/organizations:
Women's basketball, Pi Beta Phi and Arabic Club.
Honors/awards:
Dean's List.
Favorite book:
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
Favorite movie:
Suits.
On choosing Dickinson:
I wanted to play collegiate basketball, and, coming from a large high school, I knew I wanted a smaller college that would allow me to build close relationships with my professors and classmates while challenging me to become a more well-rounded, educated individual. I also wanted the opportunity to study abroad, and Dickinson provides students with amazing study-abroad opportunities in a variety of countries.
Favorite spot on campus:
The Tome balcony or the library.
Favorite off-campus spot:
Playa Bowls.
Favorite professor:
Senior Lecturer in Middle East Studies Magda Siekert. When I first enrolled in Arabic at Dickinson, I had doubts that I would be successful in the language. However, Professor Siekert has been very uplifting and supportive since day one. She consistently reassures her students and makes a daily effort to encourage or help us with any challenges. Aside from being a great professor, Professor Siekert makes an effort to be involved in the lives of her students, from checking in on how they are doing personally to seeking out internship and job opportunities that may be of interest. She also helps to answer any questions or concerns and provides additional resources for further exploration.
Favorite Dining Hall food:
Shrimp Caesar wrap and tater tots.
Post-Dickinson plans:
Pursue a career in law enforcement with the federal government.
Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:
The interactions and eye-opening experiences that Dickinson provides. From interacting with professors and classmates, inside and outside the classroom, I’ve been able to expand my knowledge on a variety of topics and build meaningful relationships that challenge me to grow as an individual. Additionally, through extracurricular opportunities such as The Clarke Forum events, clubs, organizations and occasional social gatherings on Britton Plaza, I've been able to become involved and engaged while learning new concepts and expanding friendships.
Advice to younger students:
Don’t be afraid to blaze your own path and venture outside of your comfort zone.
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Published July 20, 2022