gemma.r.stowell.27@dartmouth.edu
Terms available
In-person/virtual: 26S
Virtual only: 25X, 25F, 25F+, 26W
Studying: Government and Sociology
Hi! I'm Gemma, a '27 from Lyndon, Vermont, double majoring in Government and Sociology. On campus, I serve as a Class of 2027 Council Officer and am deeply involved in the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact and the First-Generation Office. I also love supporting my peers through programs like Dartmouth Bound, FYSEP College Knowledge, and First-Year Orientation. As someone who knows how overwhelming it can feel to enter unfamiliar spaces, I became a Study Away Mentor (SAM) to help others approach their experiences with self-assurance, authenticity, and a sense of curiosity.
As a first-generation, low-income student, studying abroad was a milestone in many ways: it was not only my first time leaving the country but also the first time I lived in a city. While Hanover already felt bustling compared to my rural hometown, Rome in the summer was another level entirely, but that's exactly why I chose to go. Ten weeks offered the perfect balance of structure and freedom to immerse myself in a new culture, practice vulnerability, and find belonging. Whether I was navigating the complexities of Italian grammar or sharing homemade meals with friends, I learned to embrace the discomfort of the unfamiliar. I grew more empathetic, independent, and grounded because of it.
The lessons I learned in Rome followed me to Washington, D.C., where I spent my winter off-term and spring term with the Government Dartmouth Domestic Study Program as an intern on Capitol Hill. Arriving in a new city without knowing anyone could have been daunting, but the resilience and openness I gained from study abroad helped me create a new home for myself. By the end of this fall, I will have completed two Government-focused study away programs. This is an incredible way to make meaningful progress toward my major while engaging in immersive learning in new cultural and political environments. I explored the city, built community, and gained clarity about my academic path. This fall, I'm thrilled to continue this journey on the Government FSP in London. I'm especially happy to speak with students navigating financial aid, SAS accommodations, or figuring out how to find routine and community while abroad. I know how transformative, but also intimidating, these experiences can be, and I'd love to help you feel more prepared and excited. Please don't hesitate to reach out!