Hometown: Austin, Texas
Major/Minor: International and Global Studies with a regional focus on East Asia and a concentration on religion.
Email: Hhummer@middlebury.edu
On-campus Activities: The Gamut Room (student-run cafe and performance space), Crossroads Cafe, Piano, Sound Investment Jazz Ensemble, Southern Society, Old Stone Mill
Commons: Wonnacott
Why did you choose Middlebury?
I applied to a huge variety of colleges- big universities, rural liberal arts colleges, and everything in between. When I visited Middlebury, however, I was struck by how beautiful it was, and how different it felt from all the other schools I had seen. When I pictured myself sitting in beautiful classrooms, wearing flannel and drinking hot apple cider, and talking with professors, I immediately sold myself on the idea of attending Middlebury. While coming here has posed some challenges, I can definitely say that my “vision” has been true.
Did you study abroad? Or are you planning to go abroad?
Yes! I spent the fall of 2014 studying in Tokyo. It was the best decision of my life! Japanese is a hard language to learn, but I felt this experience validated all the hours I had put in studying. I did so many awesome things…went to the world’s largest fish market, saw beautiful temples and shrines in Kyoto, walked down some of the world’s most fashionable districts, sampled amazing sushi and ramen, and even went to a traditional Japanese bathhouse. The memories I made in Tokyo will be memories I will never forget, and I’m strongly considering looking for job opportunities in Japan after I graduate so that I can go back!
Favorite study spot on campus?
I tend to be pretty productive while studying in my room. I like that I can maintain my own levels of music and not be distracted by others. However, I also like the library and will be getting my own senior thesis carrel this fall, which I’m pretty excited about.
Favorite class or professor at Middlebury (or both)?
Persecution and Revival of Religion in Modern China, with professor Elizabeth Morrison. I took this seminar as a sophomore, and it confirmed that I love learning about religion and its place in East Asia. The class only had about 8 students, and we spent each day discussing different religious movements and their trajectories within the tumultuous decades of Modern China. We even went to the Stone Leaf Teahouse to present our final papers, which was a fun and relaxing way to end the class. I would highly recommend this class, or any other by professor Morrison!
Your biggest challenge adjusting to Middlebury?
I’m from Texas, and I definitely wasn’t prepared for the huge atmospheric change. The winter here kind of shocked me; I was so surprised by how dark and cold it got in January and February. This is still a struggle for me, but I’ve learned how to adapt to it. I also did an independent study at home in Texas during J-term of my sophomore year, which was a great personal decision. I love that Middlebury gives students the flexibility to pursue alternative academic opportunities during J-term, and I was able to enjoy the 60 degree Texas winter that January.
Best Proctor Dining Hall creation?
I like making parfaits by combining yogurt, granola, apples, bananas, and chocolate chips. A great snack!
Advice for a prospective student?
Make your college experience what you always wanted it to be. Sure, Middlebury (as well as other schools!) provide ample resources, activities, and opportunities, but it is up to YOU to make the most of them. It’s so easy to get trapped in a repetitive lifestyle at college, with all the studying and classes you have to keep up with. However, make sure that you reach out and find the things that you want to do…nobody will hand you the ideal college experience!