Native American Program at Dartmouth
Dartmouth College is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and diversity. One of the most vibrant and engaging aspects of Dartmouth’s campus life is its Native American Community Program. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at this program and how it enriches the college experience for students while fostering a strong sense of community.
Dartmouth’s Historical Commitment to Native Education
When Dartmouth College was founded in 1769, its charter held a visionary directive: to exist “for the education and instruction of youth of the Indian tribes in this land… English Youth, and any others.” However, in the subsequent two centuries, Dartmouth’s actions did not fully align with this noble founding commitment to Native students.
It wasn’t until the year 1970 that a pivotal moment of change occurred. President Kemeny made an unwavering pledge to rectify the historical lack of opportunities for Native Americans in higher education. This recommitment not only held Dartmouth to a higher moral standard compared to its peers but also set the stage for the establishment of the Native American Program and laid the foundation for the Native American Studies department.
Moreover, this transformative initiative directed the Admissions Office to take an active role in recruiting Native students, thereby diversifying the Dartmouth community. Since 1970, over 1,200 Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians from more than 200 distinct tribal communities have graced the Dartmouth campus, leaving an indelible mark on its history.
The Native American Studies department, an academic program accessible to all Dartmouth students, stands as a testament to Dartmouth’s commitment to Native education. This program offers a profound opportunity to explore the historical experiences, cultural traditions, innovations, and political standing of Native peoples in the United States and Canada. Through interdisciplinary teaching and research, Dartmouth not only acknowledges its historical legacy but also actively engages in the ongoing dialogue of Native American education, empowerment, and understanding.
What is the Native American Community Program at Dartmouth?
The Native American Community Program (NACP) at Dartmouth College is a dedicated initiative aimed at providing support, resources, and a sense of community for Native American students and those interested in Native American culture. It serves as a vital part of Dartmouth’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
The Dartmouth Native American Program is dedicated to empowering Indigenous students by offering guidance, specialized programs, and initiatives focused on four core areas: academic achievement, personal wellness, community involvement, and personal growth and leadership.
One standout program is the Native and Indigenous Pre-Orientation Program (Pre-O), held annually in partnership with the Admissions Office. Pre-O connects first-year Indigenous students with peer mentors, acquaints them with essential campus resources crucial for academic success and well-being, and immerses them in a diverse range of social, cultural, and academic experiences.
Where is the Native American Community Program at Dartmouth?
Dartmouth’s campus stands upon the ancient, unceded lands of the Abenaki people, a powerful reminder of the rich history and enduring presence of Indigenous communities in this region.
This acknowledgment is a call to honor the significance of this land, to recognize the continued existence of Indigenous peoples, and to emphasize Dartmouth’s unwavering commitment to forging respectful relationships with those who call these lands home today.
Dartmouth’s Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program: A Glimpse into College Life
The Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) program is meticulously crafted to provide participants with an immersive, in-person experience of daily college life at Dartmouth. Through this program, participants will not only gain insights into Dartmouth’s vibrant Indigenous community and its myriad resources but also delve into the intricate world of college admissions and financial aid processes.
IFI extends an open invitation to rising seniors who hail from high schools within the United States. Eligible participants include those who identify as Indigenous themselves or have displayed a genuine interest in the Indigenous community or Dartmouth’s Native American and Indigenous Studies Department.
Highlights of the Indigenous Fly-In Program
Having evolved over the span of 30 years, the Indigenous Fly-In Program has welcomed countless prospective students from across the nation to embark on a firsthand exploration of Hanover and Dartmouth College.
This program extends a warm welcome to students of diverse backgrounds who exhibit a genuine interest in Native communities or Native American Studies. The program leverages the insights of admissions staff and current Dartmouth students, many of whom are past participants of Dartmouth Bound, to offer perspectives on Dartmouth and invaluable advice for navigating the labyrinth of college search and admissions procedures.
Engaging Tours
The program encompasses a variety of tours, including an orientation of the Dartmouth campus and its facilities. These tours extend to specific areas of interest and include visits to the athletic facilities, the Hopkins Center for the Arts, and the Thayer School of Engineering.
Native Students’ Experience Forum
Participants are offered an unfiltered view of life at Dartmouth from the standpoint of Native students. A diverse group of students and leaders from the Native community are on hand to answer questions and share their personal experiences at Dartmouth and beyond. This forum is the ideal platform to inquire about academics, social life, extracurricular activities, and cultural involvement.
Native Americans at Dartmouth (NAD) Community Dinner
Hosted at the Native American House, this dinner brings together the entire Native community, including students, faculty, and staff. It’s an opportunity to enjoy a meal, make introductions, extend a warm welcome to prospective students, and engage in casual conversations while sharing their Dartmouth experiences.
Insightful Admissions Workshops
The heart of the program lies in its admissions workshops and case studies. Admissions officers provide a detailed walk-through of Dartmouth’s personalized application review process, offering invaluable tips for completing college applications.
Participants even have the chance to review actual College applications as part of a mock admissions committee exercise. Small group sessions with admissions staff are also available to address individual questions about the college application process.
First-Year Experience
This segment provides a glimpse into the transition to College life and an overview of the various programs and resources accessible to Dartmouth students.
Financial Aid
Financial aid plays a pivotal role in making the Dartmouth experience accessible to students, irrespective of their family’s financial circumstances. Financial aid officers offer an informative overview of how financial aid operates at Dartmouth and answer any questions participants may have.
Closing Dinner
To culminate the program, a closing dinner brings together participants, mentors, admissions staff, and faculty to reflect on the program’s events and discussions. The evening often features a guest speaker who imparts final words of encouragement, leaving participants with a sense of inspiration and camaraderie.
The Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program opens the door to an enriching and enlightening journey. It’s an opportunity to discover Dartmouth College, engage with the Indigenous community, and gain invaluable insights into the college admissions process—all while fostering a sense of belonging and community.
How to apply to the Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program
To be eligible, applicants should have a demonstrated interest in the Native community and/or Native American Studies. To apply, follow these steps:
- Complete the online application, which will request basic demographic and household information.
- Academic details, including standardized test scores.
- Two essay responses focusing on your academic resilience and commitment to the Native community.
Next, email a letter of recommendation and your resume. Then, request that your high school send your transcript directly to Dartmouth.
When does the Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program take place?
The Indigenous Fly-In Program for the year 2023, scheduled to take place from October 8th to October 11th, has concluded its application process as the deadline has passed.
When is the deadline to apply to the Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program?
If you were planning to apply for this program, you will need to wait for the next opportunity, as applications are no longer being accepted for the 2023 session. Stay tuned for the Indigenous Fly-In Program for the year 2024 announcements on the Dartmouth College website!
How hard is getting into the Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program?
Admission into the Native American Community Program (NACP) at Dartmouth College can vary in terms of competitiveness and requirements. The difficulty of getting into the program depends on several factors, including your individual qualifications, the number of applicants, and the specific criteria set by the program.
If you can demonstrate a strong commitment to the Native community and a genuine desire to engage with the program’s resources and opportunities, it may enhance your chances of being admitted.
How long is the Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program?
The duration of the Indigenous Fly-In Program at Dartmouth College may vary from year to year and can depend on the specific schedule and activities planned for each session. Typically, fly-in programs like this one are designed to provide a brief but immersive experience, often lasting anywhere from a few days to a week. The program’s official website or the program coordinators can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on the exact duration and schedule of the Indigenous Fly-In Program for a specific year.
When do I find out about my application to the Dartmouth Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) Program?
If you apply for the fall term, please note that the application deadline should be around July. Candidates who submit their applications by this deadline can expect to receive their application decisions in the month of August.
It’s important to ensure that all required materials are submitted by the specified deadline to facilitate the timely processing of your application and the subsequent notification of your admission status.
Why should you go to the Native American Program at Dartmouth: Your Path to Success
Are you curious how Dartmouth College champions Indigenous students’ success and well-being? Look no further than the Native American Program, a dedicated initiative designed to empower you through academic excellence, personal growth, community engagement, and leadership development. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect, with a special focus on the Native and Indigenous Pre-Orientation Program (Pre-O).
Pre-O is all about setting you up for success, and it’s packed with exciting opportunities:
- Peer Mentorship: You’ll be connected with experienced peers who will guide you through the Dartmouth experience, ensuring you feel right at home.
- Navigating Campus Resources: Discover the secret sauce to academic triumph and well-being by uncovering essential campus resources and meeting the fantastic staff who support you every step of the way.
- Embrace the Native American Program: Dive headfirst into the Native American Program, your key to unlocking a wealth of support, knowledge, and connections.
- Balancing Academics and Wellness: Gain valuable insights on how to excel academically while nurturing your personal well-being, tailored to your unique needs.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Delve into culturally specific concerns, knowing that Dartmouth is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where your heritage is celebrated.
In a nutshell, the Native and Indigenous Pre-Orientation Program is your passport to a thriving academic journey at Dartmouth. Get ready to ignite your potential, make lifelong friends, and embrace the incredible support network that awaits you on campus.
Your Native American Community at Dartmouth
Are you, high school seniors, wrestling with questions about your role and connection within our thriving indigenous community? It’s a ponderance that strikes many, for the journey of affiliation and cultural identity is a deeply personal one, unique to each individual.
The Native American Program at Dartmouth College is an unwavering ally and steadfast companion dedicated to nurturing your academic achievements and holistic well-being throughout your entire college adventure. Here’s why you should wholeheartedly and enthusiastically adopt this community as your own:
A Diverse Tapestry Unites Us
The indigenous community is a splendid tapestry interwoven with diversity. It encompasses students from all walks of life, each with their distinct levels of connection to their heritage and their own cultural identities. This diversity is their greatest strength, rendering the community exceptionally rich and influential.
A Heartwarming Welcome Awaits
Whether you have long been immersed in your cultural identity or are just embarking on the thrilling voyage of self-exploration, understand that you are wholeheartedly embraced there. Your presence acts as a catalyst, infusing the community with a kaleidoscope of experiences and perspectives that enrich and inspire us all.
Lifelong Partners in Your Journey
The Native American Program transcends its role as a mere support system; it becomes your steadfast partner throughout your academic and personal journey. They stand shoulder to shoulder with you, offering unwavering support, guidance, and the invaluable resources required not only to succeed but to flourish.
Your Success, Their Priority
Your academic triumphs and personal well-being are the paramount concerns. The Native American Community at Dartmouth pledges an unwavering commitment to aiding you in excelling in your studies while ensuring that your time at Dartmouth is a holistic, fulfilling, and harmonious experience.
So, as you stand at the precipice of this thrilling new chapter in your life, know this with utmost certainty: Dartmouth’s indigenous community eagerly awaits your arrival. Regardless of where you currently find yourself on your journey of cultural connection and self-identity, comprehend that this is not just a community—it’s YOUR community.
Indigenous Student Peer Advisors (ISPAs): Your Campus Allies
In full support for the Native and Indigenous community at Dartmouth College, Indigenous Student Peer Advisors (ISPAs) shine as your guides and companions. These remarkable individuals, who are current students themselves, play an integral role in bringing the mission of the Native American Program (NAP) to life through their collaboration with various campus resources.
Each ISPA is thoughtfully assigned to a specific student resource center or program, immersing themselves in the intricate web of support structures and processes offered by these centers, all from a student’s perspective. This in-depth knowledge is then generously shared with their peers through advising sessions and enlightening programming, ensuring that every student can tap into the wealth of resources available to them.
ISPAs take the helm in hosting the lively and engaging “Friday Fun & Food” gatherings, an event that serves as both a social hub and a platform for enhancing community engagement and learning. It’s a testament to their dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the Native and Indigenous communities.
When a student asks for help from the NAP Director or Program Coordinator and they think one of the ISPA-assigned resource centers or programs could be useful, they connect you with them. You will match with the right ISPA, who becomes your peer mentor, giving helpful advice, guidance, and a friendly introduction to the resource center or program.
Embracing Your Indigenous Roots: How to get into the Native American Community Program at Dartmouth
We hope that this blog reminded you of the profound significance of connecting with our Indigenous roots. For Native Americans, this connection represents not only a celebration of culture, heritage, and identity but also a powerful source of support and strength.
The Dartmouth Native American Community Program is a vibrant community that understands the importance of cultural identity. It provides academic support, mentorship, and a nurturing environment where Native students can thrive academically and personally.
So, if you are a Native American student looking to strengthen your bond with your Indigenous roots while pursuing a world-class education, Dartmouth College is a place where your aspirations can become a reality. It’s an institution that recognizes the importance of preserving and celebrating Native cultures, and it welcomes you to join a community that shares your values and dreams.
Looking for advice on pre-college program admissions? Think about partnering with experts in college admissions, such as AdmissionSight. With our extensive experience, we’ve guided many students to successful admissions in top universities worldwide. Begin your academic journey today by scheduling a consultation with us!
