Dionne's Semester in Amsterdam

Hi everyone! My name is Dionne Hardy and I am a rising senior at Trinity College. I am a first-generation college student majoring in Anthropology, with a focus on ethnographic research. Throughout the school year, I work under the Office of Multicultural Affairs as a P.R.I.D.E. (Promoting, Respect For Inclusive Diversity In Education) leader. I have always loved helping people grow and become the best versions of themselves, which is why I volunteer and mentor students at Trinity College and in the Hartford community. This past school year, my major gave me the opportunity to conduct student research about the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives on Trinity's campus. I also proposed ways to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. Throughout my three years at Trinity, I have found a sense of community among my peers and faculty & staff. I want to continue providing that support and community to others far beyond Trinity's four walls.

 This summer I am conducting research with the Center for Caribbean Studies at Trinity College. I am researching and analyzing the country of Haiti, its history, and other Caribbean islands. After my research and analysis, I will have the unique opportunity to expand on my coursework related to the Caribbean. I will do this by both nuancing my historical understanding of the region through the lens of colonialism and critically engaging with how to construct accessible, inclusive educational digital platforms for wider public audiences beyond my university's classrooms. I will develop a list of best practices for educational lesson planning in Caribbean Studies and design age-appropriate lesson plans for k–12 classroom settings.

 My anthropology major has allowed me to research and study people of various ages and cultures within and outside of the United States. After graduation, I want to further my learning and broaden my perspective on people and cultures all around the world. I hope to do this by going overseas and teaching/mentoring children.

In the fall semester of 2023, I will have the amazing opportunity to continue studying anthropology from various perspectives that Trinity does not offer. I was accepted to study abroad at the University of Amsterdam, which has one of the best social science programs in the world. However, I need assistance paying for housing and traveling abroad. Anything could help! I am grateful if you just share my story. ❤️