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Life on the Hill

Life on the Hill

By LifeOnTheHill

This interview based podcast will keep Hamilton College students and our community in tune with the happenings of the moment. Things to be aware of and consider and the people on campus here to help along the way!
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What Do You Want to Create Here?

Life on the HillSep 02, 2019

00:00
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There Is No Growth in Comfort

There Is No Growth in Comfort

In this episode we hear from Dr. Omobonike Odegbami (Dr. Bonike), Director of International Student Services. Some of the topics discussed include what brought her to Hamilton, her time serving as a campus president, the role of food in facilitating belonging, and her "Yes Philosophy."

Released on March 12, 2024


Mar 12, 202436:00
More Helpers, More Help

More Helpers, More Help

In this episode we hear from Dr. Jeffrey S. Bailey, Nurse Practitioner. Some of the topics discussed include Dr. Bailey's journey to his field of expertise and College Hill, the importance of inclusive care practices, tips for getting healthy and staying healthy, as well as why we should prioritize sleep.


Released on January 22, 2024

Jan 22, 202458:05
Find Your Person

Find Your Person

In this episode we hear from Ariel Adams, Director of Student Activities. Some of the topics discussed include Ariel's experience transitioning to a small town from a major city, ways to engage this semester, the many new faces in Student Activities, and tips to make the most of the college experience.

Released on January 8, 2024

Jan 08, 202424:28
So Different, but Connected

So Different, but Connected

In this episode we hear from a number of our newest community members and some special guests talking about transition and the start of an academic year.  Some topics include orientation trips, making new friends, being nervous, the importance of a routine, and the want for connection and support from one another.

Released on August 29, 2022

Aug 29, 202220:41
A Tight Community

A Tight Community

In this episode we hear from Ruthie Schmidt and Julian Perricone, members of the Class of 2020.  Some of the topics discussed include how they chose Hamilton, reflections on their study abroad experiences, an acknowledgement that they are still figuring things out, and much more.  This episode was recorded on February 28, 2020, but not launched until much later out of consideration for how Ruthie, Julian, and the other members of the Class of 2020's experiences changed just weeks after it was recorded.  It is now being launched in honor of the Class of 2020's in person Commencement this weekend.  Welcome back, Hamilton College Class of 2020.

Released on June 2, 2022

Jun 03, 202238:35
Opportunity to Grow

Opportunity to Grow

In this episode we hear from Peaches Valdes, Dean of Admission, Stephanie Andrade '26, Joe Buttarazzi '26, and Quentin Messer '26. Some of the topics discussed include how they approached their college search process, why they chose Hamilton, what they are looking forward to and nervous about coming to the Hill, and the importance of being authentic and trusting yourself when looking for a college.

Released on April 22, 2022

Apr 22, 202244:48
Look Up

Look Up

In this episode we hear Dayna Campbell, Assistant Director for Community Standards, Rebecca Ingber '22, Diego Inzunza '25, and Daniel Lipson '25. Some of the topics what brought each of them to the Hill, how they are changing Hamilton's approach to bystander intervention, the idea of good people vs. bad people, and the importance of self-reflection.

Released on March 28, 2022

Mar 28, 202242:26
Little Acts of Kindness

Little Acts of Kindness

In this episode we will hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include what to expect at the start of the semester, the importance of looking out for one another, navigating winter, and welcoming our January Admits.

Released on January 27, 2022

Jan 27, 202220:50
Finding Your Jacket (Things Just Work Out Here)

Finding Your Jacket (Things Just Work Out Here)

In this episode we hear from Dave Bolger, member of the Class of 1999 and creator and host of the Had I Known podcast (https://hadiknown.buzzsprout.com/).  Some of the topics discussed include what brought him to Hamilton, his experience being on campus just after the 1995 decision to close down fraternity houses, why he created the Had I Known podcast, imposter syndrome, and the value of reconnecting with Hamilton as an alum.

Released on December 10, 2021

Dec 10, 202149:36
First Up.

First Up.

In this special episode as part of our celebration of National First Generation Week we hear from Maria Genao-Homs, Associate Dean of Diversity and Inclusion, as well as other members of the Hamilton community who identify as first generation.  Some topics discussed include how the College defines first generation college students and other definitions, what the experiences of first gen students sometimes looks like, and the strengths first gen students tend to bring to their college experience.

Released on November 12, 2021

Nov 12, 202137:60
Recognize the Moment

Recognize the Moment

In this episode we hear from Hannah Stubley '12 and Kevin Alexander '13, two of our three ALEX Advisors.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought each of them to Hamilton, what brought them back to Hamilton, the role of an ALEX Advisor, Imposter Syndrome, and the importance of getting off the Hill.

Released on October 18, 2021

Oct 18, 202135:40
Recruit for Character, Teach the Skill

Recruit for Character, Teach the Skill

In this episode we hear from Jon Hind '80, Athletic Director and Professor of Physical Education.  Jon shares the three different circumstances that brought him to Hamilton starting as an undergraduate, being a student when Hamilton and Kirkland Colleges combined, and the roles and responsibilities of varsity athletes.  He also discusses the wide range of programs and services athletics offers, shares his appreciation for Dave Thompson, and stresses the importance of "mastering the P's."

Released on September 14, 2021

Sep 14, 202145:60
Trust Your Gut

Trust Your Gut

In this episode we hear from Terry Martinez, Vice President and Dean of Students and Emma Moteyunas, Student Support Services Case Manager.  Dean Martinez reflects on last year and looks ahead to the start of a new year, discusses the importance of giving grace to others, and invites the community to come together.  Emma shares the story of what brought her to Hamilton, reflects on her own college experience as an undecided student, explains what case management is and when students might come in contact with student support services, and that it is okay to not be okay.

Released on August 22, 2021

Aug 22, 202151:41
Plant the Seeds Early

Plant the Seeds Early

In this episode we hear from Aaron Ray, the Director of Opportunity Programs.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought him here, following the legacy of Phyllis Breland, what is opportunity programs at Hamilton and beyond, his plans and hopes for OP, and the importance of staying open to opportunities and experiences.

Released on April 18, 2021

Apr 19, 202142:41
Do What Makes You Happy

Do What Makes You Happy

In this episode we hear from Savannah Kelly '21 and Gianni Hill '21.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought each of them to Hamilton, the Posse Foundation, a COVID senior year, they reflect on their experiences while at Hamilton, and some pro tips as seniors.

Released on March 22, 2021

Mar 23, 202143:44
Connecting Dots, Not Just Collecting Them

Connecting Dots, Not Just Collecting Them

In this episode we hear from Dean of Engaged Education, Kathy Wolfe.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought her to Hamilton, she outlines what the ALEX initiative is, discusses the importance of reflection, and shares how equity and access are at the center of ALEX. 

Released on March 2, 2021

Mar 02, 202132:21
Take Small Steps

Take Small Steps

In this episode we hear from Assistant Director of Student Activities, Kaity Stewart.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought her to Hamilton, how she decided to go into the field of Student Affairs, the benefits of getting involved, ways to keep balance, and some of the fun opportunities ahead including highlights of Feb Fest events.

Released on January 24, 2021

Feb 12, 202123:38
Bring Some Vulnerability

Bring Some Vulnerability

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

Jan 25, 202145:01
Practicing Gratitude

Practicing Gratitude

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

Nov 25, 202024:57
One Evolution at a Time

One Evolution at a Time

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

Nov 12, 202039:10
Everybody Gets a Nap

Everybody Gets a Nap

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

Oct 29, 202045:57
Stay the Course

Stay the Course

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

Oct 12, 202039:60
Rise to the Occasion With Joy

Rise to the Occasion With Joy

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

Sep 07, 202029:50
We Are All in This Together

We Are All in This Together

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

Aug 20, 202038:23
Embrace the Quirkiness

Embrace the Quirkiness

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

May 21, 202025:52
Find a Little Bit of Light

Find a Little Bit of Light

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

Apr 30, 202029:08
It's Always the Students

It's Always the Students

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

Apr 14, 202025:15
One Good Place

One Good Place

In this episode we will hear from Dan Chambliss, Eugene M. Tobin Distinguished Professor of Sociology .  Some of the topics discussed include his path to Hamilton, moving to online learning for faculty and students, what makes Hamilton special, the relationship between failure and excellence, and the value of a liberal arts education done right.

Released on March 29, 2020

Mar 29, 202028:56
Learn From Each Other

Learn From Each Other

In this episode we will hear from Tommy Keith '22 and Bryce Febres '22, President and Vice President of Student Assembly .  Some of the topics discussed include their paths to Hamilton, the transition to Hamilton coming from very different backgrounds, their goals for Student Assembly, the importance of sharing stories and listening, and getting out of your comfort zone.

Released on March 6, 2020

Mar 06, 202025:41
Suspend Disbelief

Suspend Disbelief

In this episode we will hear from Karen Leach, Vice President for Administration and Finance.  Some of the topics discussed include her path to Hamilton College, the benefits of a liberal arts education, the budget process, how we manage the endowment, the importance of persistence in relationship building, especially for an introvert, and her approach to problem solving.

Released on February 25, 2020

Feb 25, 202030:51
Exploring Is Better Than Deciding

Exploring Is Better Than Deciding

In this episode we will hear from Janine Oliver, Associate Director of Career Development.  Some of the topics discussed include her path to Hamilton College, career development and exploration, the challenge of sitting with discomfort, planned happenstance, and the importance of exploration.

Released on February 13, 2020

Feb 14, 202035:07
We Tell Our Story

We Tell Our Story

In this episode we will hear from Eric Stenzel, Class of 2023.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought him to Hamilton, starting an initiative on campus, the importance of inclusion to climate justice, Sunrise Hamilton's efforts, and the power of youth in leading change. 

Released on January 30, 2020

Jan 31, 202029:35
Extend Welcome, Presume Welcome

Extend Welcome, Presume Welcome

In this episode we will hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include welcoming the newest members of our community, pressing reset in a new year and new semester, how to make friends, changes in the counseling and health centers, and embracing winter.

Released on January 16, 2020

Jan 16, 202023:44
Look for All That's Good

Look for All That's Good

In this special winter break episode we hear original music (and one beloved Hamilton College song) performed by Hamilton College students.

Released January 3, 2020

Jan 03, 202036:33
Take Care of Each Other

Take Care of Each Other

In this episode we hear from President of Hamilton College, David Wippman.  Some of the topics discussed include what brought him to Hamilton and his path to becoming a college president, falling in love with Hamilton College, reflections on 2019, a look ahead to 2020 including navigating the election year as a community, and his advice to our students.

Released on December 18, 2019

Dec 19, 201935:60
Thanks

Thanks

In this special November break episode we hear various members of the Hamilton College community answer the question, "What are you most thankful for about Hamilton College?"

Released on November 28, 2019

Nov 28, 201911:55
We Are Better Because of You

We Are Better Because of You

In this episode we will hear from Vice President for Enrollment Management, Monica Inzer.  Some of the topics discussed include the evolution of her work at Hamilton, the process of shaping the College, the importance of being a College of opportunity, gratitude and joy, being a parent of a first year college student, college rankings, and her feelings about this generation of Hamilton College students.

Released on November 23, 2019

Nov 24, 201921:31
Stay Well and Focused

Stay Well and Focused

In this episode we will hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include the push leading to break, revisiting the Town Hall, her role as Chief Diversity Officer, how students can give her feedback, what she is grateful for and how she shows gratitude, making healthy choices when stressed, and she shares her campus pet peeve.

Released on November 18, 2019

Nov 19, 201922:28
Take a Breath

Take a Breath

In this episode we will hear from Jessica Moulite, member of the Class of 2014. Some of the topics discussed include her transition to Hamilton from Miami as a Posse Scholar, her path to her career in media, the process of truly becoming an adult, moving through adjustment issues post-College, how her intersectionality played out a Hamilton and continues to in her work and life today, and colorism.

Released on November 13, 2019

Nov 14, 201926:06
Be Open and Loving

Be Open and Loving

In this episode we will hear from Honor Allen, member of the Class of 2021.  Some of the topics discussed include how she has navigated her time on the Hill, following your interests, the importance of sleep, the urgency for us to build community across difference, and self care as a means to be a better community member.

Released on November 6, 2019

Nov 07, 201921:49
Winter: A Season of Opportunity

Winter: A Season of Opportunity

In this episode we will hear from Director of Outdoor Leadership, Andrew Jillings.  Some of the topics discussed include his relationship with winter, what to wear, where to find it, and ways to afford it, fun things to do outside in the winter, and strategies for learning to drive in the snow.

Released on October 28, 2019

Oct 29, 201921:29
Don't Take Someone's Candy

Don't Take Someone's Candy

In this special October break episode we will hear from my kids, Bennett (4 1/2) and Wesley (2 1/2).  Some of the topics discussed include sandwiches and dinosaurs, relaxation strategies, the importance of stretching, being thankful for toys and family, driving rocket ships, and ways to have fun in the winter.

Released on October 20, 2019


Oct 21, 201907:53
Make Life Feel Like an Adventure

Make Life Feel Like an Adventure

In this episode we will hear from Assistant Director of Outdoor Leadership, Sarah Jillings.  Some of the topics discussed include her masters thesis on highly satisfied Hamilton students, A, B, and C friends, putting yourself in front of caring adults on campus, aligning your time with your values, and the importance of movement in a group setting.

Released on October 20, 2019

Oct 21, 201921:58
Share Your Humanity

Share Your Humanity

In this episode we will hear from Vice President and Dean of Students, Terry Martinez.  Some of the topics discussed include reevaluating your commitments and routines, moving through home sickness, taking advantage of break, the pressure we put on ourselves, embracing the awkwardness, and strategies to maximize your relationships with faculty members.

Released on October 13, 2019

Oct 14, 201917:28
Ask the Question
Oct 07, 201920:45
Develop Deep Connections with Advisors

Develop Deep Connections with Advisors

In this episode we will hear from Kureem Nugent, member of the Hamilton College Class of 2018 and Watson Fellow.  Some of the topics discussed include Kureem's experience has a Hamilton student, applying for a fellowship, navigating life post-college, traveling the world independently, approaches to education around the world, the importance of in and out of class advisors, and Ginny Dosch, Hamilton's Student Fellowships Coordinator.

Released on September 27, 2019

Sep 28, 201922:38
Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength

Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength

In this episode we will hear from Research and Outreach Librarian, Kristin Strohmeyer. Some of the topics discussed include her college and graduate school experience, how to make the most of the library, study tips, research and citation strategies, and students' role in building scholarship.
Released on September 27, 2019
Sep 28, 201911:38
Focus on Learning, the Grades Will Follow

Focus on Learning, the Grades Will Follow

In this episode we will hear from the Director of the Quantitative and Symbolic Reasoning (QSR) Center, Ben Smith.  Some of the topics discussed include how we think about our learning, what the QSR Center is and how to use it, the purpose of tutoring, strategies to connect with other students and faculty, study skills and time mapping, and failure.

Released on September 18, 2019

Sep 18, 201920:30
Some Risk Required

Some Risk Required

In this episode we will hear from Director of Orientation and First Year Programs, Tessa Chefalo.  Some of the topics discussed include her experience transitioning to college, making connections, the benefits of getting involved, but not too involved.

Released on September 8, 2019.  This interview was originally published on August 13, 2019 as part of the episode Welcome (Back) Part 1

Sep 09, 201912:52
Cut Yourself Some Slack

Cut Yourself Some Slack

In this episode we hear from Amanda Kim '21, president of Student Assembly and Jiin Jeong '21, vice president of Student Assembly.  Some topics discussed include goal setting, the importance of a positive mindset, how to get involved with Student Assembly and beyond, learning from failure, politics, and how to support international students.

Released on September 8, 2019

Sep 08, 201920:42