Lip Sync 2025: Pitch Perfect Performances Compete for Housing

This past Wednesday, students competed in Lip Sync 2025 to win the first pick in the Herd Housing selection process. Assistant Features Editor Mira Wilde ’28 highlights the fun performances and perspectives of the winning team.

Amherst Adventures Abroad: Madison Rabb ’26

In this new edition of Amherst Adventures Abroad, Managing Features Editor Nife Joshua ’26 spoke with Madison Rabb ’26 to learn about her semester in Madrid, highlighting her immersion in the Spanish language, travels around Europe, and newfound love for Spanish cuisine.

Amherst Reflects on Trump’s Transgender Athlete Policy

On Feb. 5, Trump signed an executive order banning transgender women and girls from competing in women’s sports, Staff Writer Lily Earnest ’28 spoke to Amherst community members about the ban’s dangerous implications for transgender individuals as well as our campus culture.

Student Squared: Richard Noh

In this edition of Student Squared, Assistant Features Editor Mira Wilde ’28 talked to Richard Noh ’27 about majoring in biochemistry, singing in DQ, and working in Kirby Theater.

Amherst College Conservatives: Altering Campus Discourse?

Last semester, Amherst students established an official conservative political presence on campus: Amherst College Conservatives. Managing Features Editor Lauren Siegel ’27 explored the impacts of this new club on the Amherst community and its implications for our national political culture.

Staff Spotlight: Martin Garnar

Staff Writer Luchik Belau-Lorberg ’28 sat down with Martin Garnar, the director of the library at Amherst, to find out more about Frost Library — the building where we spend our Sunday nights — and the man behind it all.

Introductory Science Courses Challenge Class Capacity

Introductory science courses saw particularly high enrollment in both semesters of the 2024-25 academic year. Staff Writers Evie Brimberg ’28 and Kaitlyn Cappillo ’28 spoke with department chairs and students to discuss the implications of large classes on the quality of student learning.

Quick Questions: “Snow Day” or a Snowy Day?

Wondering if another snow day is on the horizon? Managing Features Editor Nife Joshua ’26 delves into the mystery of the necessary criteria for classes to be canceled.

Dr. Anthony Fauci Sits Down With Amherst Students

Dr. Anthony Fauci, one of this year’s esteemed LitFest guests, spoke with four Amherst students about the necessity of science in times of uncertainty, the American medical system, and the implications of Covid.

10 Highlights From 10 Years of LitFest: A Retrospective with Jennifer Acker ’00

2025 marks 10 years since the start of LitFest, inviting over 100 guest speakers over the years. Managing Features Editor Olivia Law ’27 and Assistant Features Editor Mira Wilde ’28 spotlight the most memorable moments from each year.

Storytelling and Screenwriting: Jefferson’s “Craft Talk”

Students had the opportunity to meet writer-director Cord Jefferson at the college’s LitFest this past weekend. Staff Writer Belaine Mamo ’27 gives an inside look into his journey.

Thoughts on Theses: Elias Villanueva Gomez

Elias Villanueva Gomez ’25 is a senior double majoring in Sexuality, Women’s, and Gender Studies and an interdisciplinary major, which focuses on translation and bilingualism studies. His thesis explores philosophies of translation, sociolinguistics, and translanguaging.

Fizz at Amherst: Antagonism or Anonymity

In light of Friday’s email from the President’s Office to the student body concerning anonymous posts on the platform Fizz, Staff Writer Jackson Hersom ’27 explored the psychological implications of anonymity and the app’s impacts on the Amherst community.

Amherst Adventures Abroad: Naomi Habtu ’26E

For many students, going abroad is one of the highlights of the Amherst experience, but it’s not often that students get the inside scoop. Managing Features Editor Nife Joshua ’26 spoke with Naomi Habtu ’26E to learn about her semester in Chile.

Looking Ahead to LitFest: Illuminating our Guest Speakers

In anticipation of Amherst’s 10th annual LitFest this weekend, Staff Writer Belaine Mamo ’27 highlighted the lives and careers of this year’s guest speakers.

Student Squared: Necati Akinci ’25

In this edition of Student Squared, Assistant Features Editor Mira Wilde ’28 talked to Necati Akinci ’25 about his passion for physics, his experience as an international student, and his goal of pursuing educational equity.

Staff Spotlight: Kris Dufour

Life-long sports competitor, writer, and enthusiast Kris Dufour, Amherst’s director of athletics communications, spoke with Daphne Witherell ’27 about his passion for building community through sports.

Hearts of the Herd: Valentine’s Day Edition

In this extra-special Valentine’s Day edition of Hearts of the Heard, resident love expert Daisy Valentine comes to the rescue with relationship advice for students battling love dilemmas.

Exploring the Swoon-Worthy Love Story Behind Reneé Alvarez and Ryan Alvarado’s 13-Year Marriage

Staff writer Ava Nair ’28 interviewed Valentine Dining Hall Meal Checker Reneé Alvarez about her 13-year marriage with Assistant Professor of Mathematics Ryan Alvarado, tracing their love from Missouri to Massachusetts.

True Love or True Disappointment? Students Reflect on the 2024 Marriage Pact

Five months after the announcement of Amherst’s 2024 Marriage Pact, Staff Writers Erin Sullivan ’28 and Savita Jani ’28 follow up with Amherst students on their stories, opinions, and dilemmas surrounding their “perfect” matches.

Amherst Community Reflects on Israel-Hamas Ceasefire

Over the past few weeks, the multi-phase ceasefire deal agreed to by Israel and Hamas has seemed to unravel. Managing Features Editor Lauren Siegel ’27 spoke to Amherst community members about the agreement, highlighting their perspectives on the deal’s implications for the Amherst campus.

Thoughts on Theses: Alma Clark

Alma Clark ’25 is a senior double majoring in computer science and music. Clark’s thesis is a full-length studio concept album, infusing modern electronic and indie pop to transport listeners 100 years into the future.

Beaming with Pride: Amherst Students Leave their Mark on Future Dining Commons

On Wednesday, students wrote themselves into Amherst history by leaving their permanent mark on the new Student Center and Dining Commons coming Fall 2026. Staff Writer Amaya Ranatunge ’28 spoke to students about the significance of this experience.

LA to Amherst: Students Reflect on January Fires

Since Jan. 7, relentless fires have ravaged the Los Angeles community, forcing many to evacuate to safety. Assistant Features Editors Mira Wilde ’28 and Talia Ehrenberg ’28 highlighted the experiences of two students from LA and their transitions back to Amherst.

Portrait of an Amherst Poet: Eliot Cardinaux and The Bodily Press

Eliot Cardinaux is an Amherst-based poet, jazz pianist, publisher, and composer. Staff writer Luchik Belau-Lorberg ’28 spoke with him to learn more about his life and the art that informs it.

Staff Spotlight: Stella Santos

Staff Writer Kaitlyn Cappillo ’28 spoke with associate director of New Student & Family Programs Stella Santos. In her interview, Santos discusses her journey to Amherst and her goal of creating connections among first-years, orientation leaders, and staff.

Amherst Debate Society Makes College Proud in Panama

Over winter break, the Amherst Debate Society rang in the new year with success at the 2025 World Universities Debating Championships in Panama City, Panama. Managing Features Editor Lauren Siegel ’27 spoke to the team about their preparation, accomplishments, and adventures.

Skijoring: Where the Wild West Meets the Slopes

At the peak of winter in Colorado, the unlikely combination of two sports, horseback riding and skiing, creates what is known as skijoring. Assistant Opinion Editor Olivia Tennant ’27 explores the world of this unique extreme sport, which she encountered during her winter break.

Graduating Transfer Students Reflect on Amherst Experiences

This week, a number of transfer students will graduate from Amherst as members of the class of 2025E. The Student interviewed five of them to celebrate their accomplishments and hear about their experiences.

Fake Abortion Clinics Shape Massachusetts Reproductive Health Landscape

Though Massachusetts has some of the strongest abortion rights in the country, 33 unlicensed fake clinics, or “crisis pregnancy centers,” seek to convince — or even deceive — people out of having an abortion. Staff Writer Adela Thompson Page ’26 explores these fake clinics and their impact.

An End to the Doom Scroll: How Students Stay Productive on Devices

Students’ devices offer both essential learning tools and endless opportunities for distraction. Staff Writer Mira Wilde ’28 highlights creative solutions to combat distraction in an effort to maintain their focus and reclaim time from their screens — whether through apps or physical distance.

How Interdisciplinary Majors Forge Their Own Paths

Having the opportunity to major in something that you’re passionate about is special. But what if that major doesn’t exist? Staff Writer Belaine Mamo ’27 addresses this question by sharing the experiences of four students who became interdisciplinary majors.

Thoughts on Theses: Maristhela Alvarez

Maristhela Alvarez ’25 is a senior majoring in biochemistry. Her thesis explores the potential impact of the NCAM2 protein on cadherin localization in the embryos of Nematostella, a species of starlet sea anemones.

Food for Thought: Classes Face the Power of What’s on Our Plates

Food is an essential part of our daily lives. But rarely do we consider food’s broader context or impacts. Staff Writer Olivia Tennant ’27 spoke to three professors teaching classes that dive deeper into our relationship with food.

Hearts of the Herd: Relationship Advice Column

In the inaugural edition of Hearts of the Heard, resident love-expert Daisy Valentine comes to the rescue with sage relationship advice for students battling love conundrums.

Staff Spotlight: Megan Scutti

Staff Writer Litzy Castañeda ’28 spoke with Megan Scutti, Amherst’s nutritionist, about her commitment to helping community members foster healthy habits and a balanced lifestyle amidst the demands of college life.

President Elliott Looks Ahead to the College in the Trump Era

The results of the 2024 election are predicted to have a substantial impact on college campuses. The Student spoke with President Michael Elliott about the possible consequences of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term and how the college is preparing to respond.

Political Action Clubs Regroup Post-Election

Managing Design Editor Anna Wang ’28 spoke with the campus political groups about their efforts leading up to the election and their plans moving forward, highlighting the work of Amherst College Democrats, Amherst College Conservatives, and Reproductive Justice Alliance.

Memories of Merrill: Science Center of the Past

While many current Amherst students may not remember the old Merrill Science Center, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who learned, worked, and forged bonds, on a personal and molecular level, inside. Staff Writer Sam Fetters ’26 reflects on the history of this significant building.

Quick Questions: What Happened to TYPO?

Student Affairs provides the opportunity for students to dine with a faculty or staff member in town through the TYPO/TYSO program. Staff writer Neil Kapur ’25 explains how students can request this subsidized meal and the recent changes made to the program.

Sis’s Place: Student Founds Housing Nonprofit

Aletheia Woodford ’26E is a full-time student and the founder and executive director of Sis’s Place Inc., a nonprofit which will provide immediate housing to domestic violence survivors in the Pioneer Valley.

Student Squared: Charlie Barker ’27

In a new edition of Student Squared, Managing Features Editor Emma Burd ’26 interviews Charlie Barker ’27 on competitive rock climbing, physics, and living in the Zü.

Old News: Five Historic Election Days on Campus

From widespread protests in 1968 to raucous celebrations in 2008, this Election Day edition of Old News explores how The Student reported on five different elections across three centuries.

Does Rate My Professor Deserve a Perfect Rating?

Managing Design Editor Anna Wang ’28 analyzes the reliability of Amherst professors’ Rate My Professor reviews — the few that exist.

Professors Plan Syllabi, Class Discussions Around Election

In light of Tuesday’s election, some professors have altered their syllabi. Staff Writer Talia Ehrenberg ’28 and Assistant Features Editor Nife Joshua ’26 spoke with two Amherst professors about how they plan to approach the election in their classes.

Fresh Faculty: Nathaniel Brennan

Nathaniel Brennan is a visiting professor in Amherst’s film and media studies and English departments. Staff Writer Olivia Tennant ’27 spoke with him about his childhood love for film, his educational trajectory, and his approach to teaching.

Swing State Students Navigate Deep Blue Mass. Election

Voters from swing states are often caught in the middle of intense political difference and discourse. Staff Writer Mira Wilde ’28 interviews Amherst students from these states about their experiences with election season in the more politically homogeneous Massachusetts.

Ghosts of Valentine: Paranormal Activity on Campus

Valentine Dining Hall is haunted. With Halloween around the corner, Staff Writers Fedora Liu ’28 and Jenny Chan ’28 explore the untold stories of the spirits who inhabit Val.

Thoughts on Theses: Tim Carroll ’25

Tim Carroll ’25 is a senior majoring in Law, Jurisprudence, and Social Thought. His thesis explores the intersection of philosophy, law, and politics as it relates to animal rights.

“Don’t Give Up on Anthropology” — Alumni Profile, Chuck Smythe ’70

Throughout his career, Chuck Smythe ’70 has worked with Native tribes to preserve their cultural knowledge and objects, often resisting institutional pressures.

The Up-And-Coming Bug-Crazy Explorer — Alumni Profile, James Colwell ’20

With an acute curiosity for nature and a love for insects, James Colwell ’20 has already found his place among scientists, just four years after his graduation.

Centering Place in Writing and Publishing — Alumni Profile, Jennifer Acker ’00

At Amherst, Jennifer Acker ’00 was an anthropology major. Now, she considers questions about place and culture in her work as an editor and writer.

A Life Unscripted, On and Off the Stage — Alumni Profile, Tom McKitterick ’70

Tom McKitterick ’70 has been an actor, photojournalist, and theater producer — dedicating his life to intellectual curiosity.

The Story Behind Modern Art’s Storyteller — Alumni Profile, Erica Gangsei

As the director of Interpretive Media at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Erica Gangsei helps uncover the narratives of artworks.

Influencing Global Dialogue — Alumni Profile, Amanda J. Bradley ’90

Amanda J. Bradley ’90 now combines her passion for world languages and the environment, alongside a commitment to empowering vulnerable communities, on the international stage.

Finding Where She’s Meant to Be — Alumni Profile, Heather Lynn Grotzinger ’20

From Colorado College to Memphis, Tennessee, Heather Grotzinger ’20 has been following an instinct to work with people — which is now leading her back to school.

From Klingon to E-Commerce — Alumni Profile, Artie Moffa ’00

Artie Moffa ’00 has always been into wordplay. He crafted extravagant fictions for his Amherst application and remains engaged in the poetic arts.

Operating with Openness and Spirit — Alumni Profile, Shazi Lyle ’15

A verve for learning and people has guided Shazi Lyle ’15 in her journey at Amherst, as a camp counselor, and throughout her career, where she’s followed a passion for operations and sexual health.

Reflecting on 30 Years in the Newsroom — Alumni Profile, Wendy Fisher ’85

After graduating from Amherst and returning from Paris, Wendy Fisher ’85 rose in the ranks in her various journalistic jobs in New York City.

Trees, People, and the Pioneer Valley — Alumni Profile, Bob Saul ’80

Bob Saul ’80 wears many hats as a businessman, farmer, and writer. But saturating all of theses trades is a love for trees.

From Memorial Field to the MLB — Alumni Profile, Dave Jauss ’80

After starting his career as an assistant coach at Amherst, Dave Jauss ’80 spent over two decades coaching Major League Baseball.

From Private Practice to Federal Judgeship — Alumni Profile, Samuel Hardwicke Mays Jr. ’70

Although Judge Samuel Hardwicke Mays Jr. ’70 initially wanted to avoid the limelight, his work as a judge has shown him to be a dedicated public servant.

Forging Harmony Through International Diversity — Alumni Profile, Hajime Hayashi ’85

As the Japanese Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Hajime Hayashi ’85 still carries Amherst’s commitment to diversity, empathy, and tolerance with him in all aspects of his daily life.

A Community Staple: Running Joe’s Cafe — Alumni Profile, Meaghan Sullivan ’05

Born and raised in Northampton, Meaghan Sullivan ’05 returned home to take over the family business: Joe’s Cafe.

Serving the Community, Amherst and Beyond — Alumni Profile, Deborah Cook Kaliel ’00

Working for USAID, Deborah Cook Kaliel ’00 is building sustainable HIV programs across the world.

At Cider Run and Beyond: Amherst A Better Chance Engages Town Community

Assistant Features Editor Lauren Siegel ’27 highlights Amherst A Better Chance, a residential high school program where students of color from educationally underserved districts live together in town and attend Amherst-Pelham Regional High School.

Staff Spotlight: Jorge Gonzalez

Jorge Gonzalez is Charles Pratt’s beloved first floor custodian. Luchik Belau-Lorberg ’28 spoke with him about his passions for bounty hunting, country music, and inspiring his residents.

Local Lookout: Royal Chicken & Kebab

Staff Writers Erin Sullivan ’28 and Ava Nair ’28 investigate Royal Chicken & Kebab, a popular weekend spot for Amherst students.

State Voting Laws Vary Greatly — So Do Student Voters’ Experiences

With just 20 days until the 2024 presidential election, differences in state voting laws have led to widely varying experiences for student voters on campus — most of whom vote by mail. Some states’ laws enable smooth, straightforward processes, while others’ present major roadblocks.

Amherst Houselessness: Resources On and Off Campus

Hampshire County, like many places around the country, is facing a rise in homelessness. Staff Writer Matthew Fisher ’26 explores the impact on unhoused individuals, the college, and the larger local community.

Old News: This Week in 2002

In this week’s Old News, Managing Features Editor Sonia Chajet Wides ’25 explores the Oct. 9, 2002 edition of The Student, which covered a statement on antisemitism, a lack of gender diversity in AAS, and custodial cleanup post-dorm parties. Sound familiar?

Rejection Therapy: Auditioning For All Six of Amherst’s A Cappella Groups

In order to overcome her fear of rejection, Staff Writer Adela Thompson Page ’26 auditioned for all six of Amherst’s a cappella groups on the same day. She recounts her unique experience and what she learned from it all.

Fresh Faculty: Youssef Ben Ismail

Youssef Ben Ismail is an Assistant Professor of Law, Jurisprudence, and Social Thought (LJST). Managing Arts and Living Editor Sophie Durbin ’25 spoke with him about teaching, Middle Eastern studies, and his love for Amherst Cinema.

Thoughts on Theses: Oren Tirschwell ’25

Oren Tirschwell ’25 is a senior double majoring in statistics and an interdisciplinary major, which focuses on applications of data science to public policy. His thesis studies gun violence and how it is linked to access to firearms in the home.

Pawan Dhingra On Stepping In As Interim CEIO

Professor Pawan Dhingra has taken on the role of Interim Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for the Office of Diversity. Staff Writer Anna Wang ’28 talks with him about his background in Asian American studies, tensions on campus, and his vision moving forward.

Taking a Stroll Through The Amherst Farmers’ Market

Senior Managing Editor June Dorsch ’27 takes a trip to Amherst’s Farmers’ Market to learn more about its vendors, customers, and the community they have created.

Amherst Block Party in Photos

Aaron Williams ’26 captures the Amherst Block Party, held on Sept. 19, on camera.

Confusion, Anxiety: Students React to 2028 Demographics

Assistant Features Editor Nife Joshua ’26 gathered student reactions to demographic shifts in the class of 2028. Many were concerned about the decrease in diversity and its threat to communities of color.

Fresh Faculty: Gilles Verniers

Gilles Verniers is a Karl Loewenstein Fellow and Visiting Assistant Professor of Political Science. Staff Writer and student of Verniers, Erin Sullivan ’28, spoke with him about Indian politics, exploring the Pioneer Valley, and teaching at Amherst.

Not Bread Alone Serves Up Food and Community

Not Bread Alone is an Amherst program that provides meals and community to those who need it most, often with student volunteers. Managing Features Editor Emma Burd ’26 and Assistant Features Editor Olivia Law ’27 highlight the organization and its commitment to building bonds through food.

College Reviewed Protest Policy Over the Summer, Amid National Reckoning on Campus Speech

After a spring defined by political action, many campuses tightened protest restrictions over the summer. Amherst's administration also updated their protest policies, though changes were more minimal. The process still offers insight into complex campus dynamics.

New Year, New Val: Dining Director Brings about Change

The beginning of the semester has served up various new stations, choices, and seating in Val — largely thanks to new Director of Dining Bill Connor. Assistant Features Editor Olivia Law ’27 explores these changes and its impacts on the Amherst community.

Fresh Faculty: George Abraham

George Abraham is the English department’s 2024 Writer-in-Residence. They spoke to The Student about their poetic craft, passion for political activism, and commitment to building strong community during their time at Amherst.

Student Squared: Ayushi Panchal ’28

In a return to her series Student Squared, Managing Features Editor Eleanor Walsh ’25 talked to first-year Ayushi Panchal ’28 about Miami, neuroscience, and how she’s finding Amherst thus far.

Chantal Kordula ’94 Begins Term as Chair of the Board of Trustees

Kordula, who has been a member of the board for five years, aims to support the mission of the college and engage in open communication with students, faculty and staff during her six-year term as chair.

Liam Archacki: Still Looking For Answers

Despite his passion for telling others’ stories, editor-in-chief emeritus Liam Archacki ’24 is still searching for his own.

Mikayah Parsons: A Mentor For the FLI Community

What can Mikayah Parsons ’24 not do? From her four majors to her numerous positions on and off campus, Parsons takes care of her community — providing resources, care, or even a bright smile at the Frost Cafe.

Frances Lin: Telling the Human Story Through Science

A Neuroscience and Classical Civilizations double major and aspiring neurosurgeon, Frances Lin is a dedicated student of human behavior — in ancient history and in medical practice.

Grace Nyanchoka: Classes in an International Context

Be it through her studies in neuroscience, work with the Center for Teaching and Learning and the Office of Sustainability, or dance with the African and Caribbean Student Union, Grace Nyanchoka ’24 has found ways to keep her home country close.

Coming Full Circle: Sitting Down with Luke Herzog

Luke Herzog is an English major, director of Mr. Gad’s House of Improv, and award-winning playwright. His interest in writing was encouraged early on by members of his family, leading him to create and produce dozens of original plays.

Cindy Rosario: Creating Community Through Deep Engagement

Cindy Rosario’s time at Amherst has been shaped by a deep commitment to fostering community and interpersonal growth. While she has a remarkable work ethic, her true power stems from enriching the lives of others.

Ari Dengler: Exuberance In and Out of Amherst

Dengler has kept her exuberant laugh throughout her college experience as she “intellectually, academically, and ethically engaged” with her academics.

Theo Dassin: Racing to Save Democracy

Universally regarded as an infectious optimist, Theo Dassin has never seen a challenge too big for him to face.

Julia Woodward: Strengthening Physics’ Pedagogical Community

While a student, Julia Woodward ’24 has been a teaching assistant and a Math Fellow for most of the time she has spent at Amherst — but teaching is only a fraction of her work in STEM at the college.

Diego Duckenfield Lopez: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Identity and Academics

Film and media studies and Black studies major Diego Duckenfield-López ’24 used an interdisciplinary approach to shape how they think about their identity and develop their thesis.

Isaac Bindman: A Quirky Academic and Biddy Martin’s Doppelganger

From his tea drinking habits to his academic interests, Isaac Bindman draws a lot from his heritage as a German, British Jew. But he owes his intelligent sense of humor, meticulousness, and genuine care for others to none other than himself.

Yasmin Hamilton: Climate Justice, Lentil Stew, and a Nugget of Serpentinite

Yasmin Hamilton ’24 has found themself drawn to water during their time at Amherst, though they only recently learned to swim. A passion for environmental care and a pull towards work that is “tactile” led them to geology.

Lori Alarcon: The Search for “Busyness”

As the AAS president, Lori Alarcon helped the AAS move past an era of controversy and rebuild its community. In student government and all her other endeavors, the biology major and aspiring doctor is driven by a deep concern for others.

Dory Farlessyost: “I Am Going to Remember All the Times I Said Yes”

Whether through backpacking in Appalachia or Spain, cooking for the community at the Zü, or making art as an act of giving, Dory Farlessyost ’24 has sustained community everywhere she has been.

Zaki Alaoui: Neuroscience Research Grounded in Growth

Dedicated to his cognitive neuroscience research, Zaki Alaoui’s commitment to self-reflection and exploration has earned him a reputation as a positive force outside the classroom.