The main reason I chose to stay in Missoula and attend the University of Montana was because of the DHC and the distinctive opportunities it offers its students. Within the program, you will take some general education requirements, like “Ways of Knowing.” This course is genuinely one of my favorite courses I have ever taken because of how many forms of knowledge we were able to explore. The general requirements are fascinating and are required for a reason.
One of my absolute favorite aspects of the program has been the Special Topics courses. Some of the Special Topics courses I’ve taken include “Music and Social Justice,” “Art and Activism,” “Eco-Poetry,” and “Petromodernity” (culture in the age of fossil fuels). These courses have enabled me to explore topics I’m passionate about that I never would have had the chance to take otherwise, such as musicology.
The academic part of the Honors College is obviously so important. But I think that one of the greatest parts of the DHC is who you meet. The C might as well stand for community because that is exactly what it is. Every month we have a calendar of events to participate in, like weekly Friday morning hikes, Open Mic nights, Tea Time with Tim, and more!
Tim is the Dean of the DHC and he is one of the kindest humans to ever walk the planet. Dr. Nichols makes a point of learning every student’s name as fast as he can (usually within the first week or two of Intro to Honors). He is one of the most compassionate and engaging people I have ever met. His kind demeanor embodies the spirit of the DHC.
The DHC Lounge is one of the best parts of being on campus. It has the comfiest couches with outlets everywhere for students! We also have a kitchen with a full fridge if you want to store your lunch in there. It is usually pretty quiet because most students are also doing homework, talking with their friends, or even napping.
I mentioned how impactful the scholarships have been for me. The Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships hosts workshops and scholarship opportunities. But you can also schedule a meeting with the office and work individually. I would have never learned about postgraduate scholarship opportunities without the DHC’s help.
The postdoctoral program offers DHC students the opportunity to work closely with young professors who bring unique and specialized perspectives to their fields. The program lasts for two years, and new professors join the DHC every two years, bringing fresh ideas and approaches. This aspect of the program gives students the chance to engage with cutting-edge research and gain insights from scholars who are at the forefront of their fields.
The DHC has truly been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey. The DHC has created an environment where community, education, and civic engagement thrive. If you are wondering if the DHC is right for you, know that it is! The DHC is for everyone who wants to grow academically, have access to smaller classes, work with brilliant professors, befriend the kindest students, and engage with the global community.
"If you want to shine as an individual and glow as a community, the DHC is right for you."
In every way, the Davidson Honors College has exceeded my expectations and provided me with countless opportunities to grow, both academically and personally. I am so grateful to be part of such a dynamic and inspiring program, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to make the most of their university experience.
Olivia Vesovich is a student at the Davidson Honors College currently pursuing a degree in English Literature with a minor in Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies. In her free time she loves to make art and hike with her dogs.