'Dickinson Has Met and Exceeded These Expectations'
Student Snapshot: Dalton Surico ’27
Dalton Surico ’27 has embraced Dickinson’s close-knit community through student leadership, study abroad and hands-on professional experiences. A double major in political science and philosophy, Dalton spent his junior year studying in Bologna, Italy, where he volunteered at a food bank, and later gained campaign-finance experience during an internship in Washington, D.C.
Hometown:
Wilmette, Ill.
High school:
New Trier Township High School.
Majors:
Political science and philosophy.
On my Dickinson experience:
I chose Dickinson because of the community. My visit to campus showed me that Dickinson has a community that cares for one another and everyone seemed to be invested in each other’s success, not only their own. Dickinson has met and exceeded these expectations.
Best thing about my major:
Both of my departments have amazing professors who are driven and dedicated to student success. I have had professors teach me concepts for hours until I felt that I understood the material. Student success and understanding of the material are their top priorities, and I am so thankful for all my professors.
On studying abroad:
I studied in Bologna, Italy, and the highlight of my experience was working at a food bank serving people in need. It was a life-changing experience that taught me many valuable lessons about who I am and my place in the world.
Favorite professor:
Professor Niebler has been an amazing professor to learn from and has an incredible dedication to students. She is always willing to meet to discuss not only classes, but also my well-being and ways she can help me. She even traveled to Washington, D.C., to talk about my internship and catch up after I returned from a year abroad.
About my internship:
I interned with a Dickinson alumnus in Washington, D.C., where I gained hands-on experience in campaign finance for several senatorial candidates during the 2026 election.
Most important thing I’ve learned so far:
An important lesson I have learned at Dickinson is to be a self-advocate as well as an advocate for others who need one. I entered college very shy and scared to advocate for myself, but Dickinson has taught me the skills I need to succeed.
Clubs and organizations:
Dickinson College Social Media Influencer, Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, Student Senate, Club Badminton, Philosophy Collective, Center for Civic Learning & Action and New Student Guide.
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Dean’s List, Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society and Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society.
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Published September 28, 2026