Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Major/Minor: Political Science and American Studies
Email: Zfisher@middlebury.edu
On-campus Activities: Residential Life, Student Government, Hillel, Sound Investment Jazz Ensemble
Commons: Ross
Why did you choose Middlebury?
New England glows with character, Vermont’s quirkiness excites me, and Middlebury College fosters a sense of authentic community and kindness. Here you can be surrounded by benevolent and intelligent people. Sure, the college has the stunning campus, ample resources, and challenging curriculum expected at a top-tier institution, but the people who live, work, and study here aren’t anywhere else. Why on Earth would I want to be anywhere else?
Favorite study spot on campus?
Seeing as change remains the single constant in academia, my study habits tend to fluctuate given the semester, book, day of the week, etc. The Axinn water feature serves as an excellent backdrop for a calming jaunt through a novel or some poetry. The Bicentennial Hall Green Room’s mustiness and heat fits a heavier read through Nietzsche or Marx.
Favorite class or professor at Middlebury (or both)?
Ancient and Medieval Political Philosophy with Professor Dry changed the course of my education, my life, and my worldview. Close and deep reading of the likes of Aristotle, Plato, Cicero, Al-Farabi, Maimonides and others challenged me in a novel and exciting way. I’ve found every class I’ve had at Middlebury rewarding, but that class meant something really special to me and my six peers. That showed me what this is all about.
Your biggest challenge adjusting to Middlebury?
The Middlebury Curriculum places a heavy emphasis on writing even in classes that wouldn’t traditionally have written work. That was a big change from high school. Even my Physics and Music classes here have had serious written components.
Best Ross Dining Hall creation?
Rice with various spices.
Advice for a prospective student?
Pack as lightly as possible. I’ve donated or given away probably over 70% of what I originally brought here. Think about only what you really need. The rest will come as it will.