Life on the Hill

In this episode we hear from Director of Orientation and First Year Programs, Tessa Chefalo.  Some of the topics discussed include her tips for approaching a transition, how she and her student leaders have prepared to welcome the newest students to campus this semester, how returning students still in search of their people can make new friends, and the importance of vulnerability.

Released on January 24, 2021

In this episode we hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include her experience as one of the faces of the College's COVID response, what have been priorities when making decisions as a College, a look ahead at changes for the Spring semester, and some things she for which she is grateful.

Released on November 24, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Sandro Mariani, member of the Class of 2021, American Studies major, and a Captain of the men's swimming and diving team.  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton as a transfer, advice for the new students joining us in January, his take on how the fall semester has gone, his community agreement violation, and some opportunities for students to make Hamilton better as we look ahead to the spring.

Released on November 11, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Dr. David Walden, Director of the Counseling Center and Lecturer in Psychology.  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton, recent history and future goals for the Counseling Center, coping strategies and things to consider around anxiety and stress management, and the importance of being kind to yourself.

Released on October 28, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Lizabeth Doherty, Coordinator of Career Services at Mohawk Valley Community College and, for the context of this conversation, the partner of the host, Travis Hill.  Liz and Travis discuss Travis being the first person to test positive for COVID 19 at Hamilton in the fall of 2020 and their experiences as a family as a result.  Topics discussed include their symptoms, contact tracing, the experience of going through isolation while sick, and challenging decisions they had to make, especially in regards to their children.

Released on October 11, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Usman Hamid, Instructor in Asian Studies.  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton, harm reduction, consent, the importance of not stigmatizing COVID 19, and the need to still seek fulfillment and joy.

Released on September 6, 2020

In this episode we will hear from  Barb Fluty, Director of the Health Center.  Some of the topics discussed include her path to Hamilton, what to expect around isolation, quarantine, and contact tracing procedures, how our behavior impacts the entire community, and having a personal health plan.

Released on August 20, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Ashley Place, Director of Residential Life.  Some of the topics discussed include her path to Hamilton, putting a pause on upper-class housing selection, advice for new students as they prepare to fill out their housing questionnaire, the process of pairing first year students, and ways to set yourself up for success living on campus.

Released on May 20, 2020

In this episode we will hear from Maria Genao-Homs, Associate Dean of Students for Diversity and Inclusion .  Some of the topics discussed include her path to Hamilton, how she approaches the work of equity, inclusion, and community building even when online learning, availing resources, and the importance of empathy and respect especially now.

Released on April 29, 2020

This episode was recorded on March 6, 2020 where we hear from Jack Withiam member of the Class of 1971, Life Trustee, and parent of members of the Classes of 2016 and 2020 .  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton as a first generation college student, becoming a Hamilton parent, the role of our Trustees, the climate change rally, the importance of academic exploration, and his life-long Hamilton friendships.

Released on April 13, 2020