Telling Our Stories
Voices of Action celebrates the diversity of students, staff, and faculty at Bard College and across Bard's international partnerships and the greater Open Society University Network. We hope this community-centered project sparks conversation and highlights how we are connected by common interests, especially around civic and community engagement. Voices of Action showcases two platforms: Being(s) at Bard on Instagram (@beingsatbard) and the What Is Your Why? podcast series.
We would love to hear your story!
To be interviewed or to nominate a friend for either Being(s) at Bard or What Is Your Why?, please reach out to [email protected].
Being(s) at Bard
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Sharing the stories, opinions, and interests of Bard Community members in collaboration with the Bard Center for Civic Engagement and the Open Society University Network's Civic Engagement Initiative. Complete the Google form to suggest a profile.
Being(s) at Bard uses visual storytelling to share personal experiences around culture, history, values, interests, and civic/community engagement of campus community members. These interviews aim to give readers an opportunity to learn from others while also shaping, strengthening, and challenging their own opinions and values. Each post contains a narrative and two accompanying photographs; a portrait of the subject and an image of their living space. To create authentic content, the interviews are conversation based rather than a firm question and answer session.
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Farman H. Sayem"I come from Comilla, Bangladesh and students in
Farman H. Sayem
"I come from Comilla, Bangladesh and students in
small cities like mine don't always pay attention to extracurriculars or interests, sadly. While we use online videos to learn to code, city dwellers in big metropolitans receive individual tutors and tons of books & resources. From individual passion, I had found many answers in my adventures, but somehow it was always the new challenges that would excite me the most."
"When I was 7, I'd never play with my model ice-cream vans, sports cars, or brightly fashioned toy guns. Instead, I observed the same monotonous music & movements before they'd all face the wrath of my screwdriver, as I salvaged all their inner parts with surgical precision. As I grew older, green circuit boards & loudspeaker magnets in my balcony substituted my toys. I felt like a "scientist" in my "laboratory"
"When I founded a science club to help students like me to compete in International Olympiads, especially girls who came forward in STEM, I realized the importance of hands-on experiences. I was offered the Distinguished Scientist Scholarship at Bard. For my undergraduate studies, I decided to apply in the US primarily due to the fluidity of the academic space. The dynamic back home is different from the one here - there's a sense of hierarchy - students don't always find the means to develop close relationships with professors. The connections here act as motivation & open doors for you. We often lack funds & resources for large scale research programs that students like me find access to here. My experience at Bard Student Research Institute, collaborating with Brookhaven National Laboratory, Columbia University has been invaluable.”
"As a tech-enthusiast, I feel incredibly proud to witness all the developments in Bangladesh's Tech Industry. We have seen a rise in start-ups recently, with the popularity of '10-Min-School', & bike-taxi service 'Pathao' that's currently operating in Nepal too. Young people are coming forward & revolutionizing both the education & digital sectors -can't wait to see what's next!"
Farman H. Sayem '25 - Comilla
Article - Ariha Shahed '26
Photo - Sameem Sarabi '24 (@sameem.sarabi ) -
Arielle Orem Gowe“My name is Arielle and I'm from Baltimore City Maryland. I think Bard is definitely the best fit for me, I
Arielle Orem Gowe
“My name is Arielle and I'm from Baltimore City Maryland. I think Bard is definitely the best fit for me, I
honestly found out about Bard by accident when I was looking for different schools that were not going to be in my hometown. Looking at the different photographs of the school really got me interested in applying to Bard. I like that at Bard we are a little isolated because that kind of forces you to focus more on your academics and work. I'm really happy that I came to Bard and I think especially with the staff and students here, I really made some pretty awesome friends and had a lot of more opportunities for open discussion which I think we aren't always allowed, especially in different settings.”
“I'm currently a sophomore and I'm majoring in sociology. My main interest in sociology is the function of capitalism and how that intersects with different forms of oppression. My first priority is getting into a Law school and after hopefully graduating from Law School, I am hoping to do work surrounding prison abolition, and if possible I'd like to continue researching sociology."
“I enjoy going to the gym and I really like going on hikes. I’m also really into doing collage art whenever I can and I love all kinds of music. My favorite colors are pink and green and I'm a Taurus. I try to keep myself relatively busy and there's certainly no end to the things that either need to be done or can be done. I am allergic to bananas and I found out about it here, so Bard has kind of helped me in more ways than one. All in all, I’m so happy to be at Bard, I think it has helped me grow as a human and motivates me to help make a change in the world.”
Arielle Orem Gowe - Maryland
Article: Sameem Sarabi ‘24
Photo: Sameem Sarabi ‘24 -
Ebelyn Velasco“I first came to Bard in the summer, with the Office of Equity and Inclusion program, part of a network
Ebelyn Velasco
“I first came to Bard in the summer, with the Office of Equity and Inclusion program, part of a network
that supports students; often with identities historically underrepresented in higher education, seek access to a liberal arts education. It was a great experience, and we had the campus all to ourselves. Once the semester started, there was a slight shift, as it became harder to get accustomed to the student-body, often feeling the pressure to cult-switch: put up an act around others to feel accepted. It is alright not feel comfortable around everyone, it's something that should come naturally. I believe that Bard does not define me, if anything, I have the opportunity to define Bard.”
“I am a club-head for the Latin American Students Organization. We are focused on promoting and educating others on our culture, in a campus where it is not often represented, through dance nights, music or food. I also work for Gilson place; a safe place for people of colour, a place that is meant just for us. People are constantly cooking or playing games, it really feels like walking into a real home. Building a strong community is something that is always in the works - we are constantly preparing for events or brainstorming ways to develop. It can get time-consuming and stressful, but I love providing for my community and sharing my culture, it is something that truly warms my heart. Experiencing the results and seeing the smiles on people's faces is very gratifying”
“I think Bard does an amazing job with facilitating a variety of organizations. Cultural clubs are places where students find second homes at college. Getting involved is so important, but also a great way to socialize and meet people. I feel like a part of a mural of voices; what keeps me motivated is being able to hear the experiences and aspirations of others; letting people know that they are taken care of, and that everyone can feel at home. Bard has pushed me to take up space for myself, be comfortable with who I am and take pride in my achievements.”
Ebelyn Velasco ‘26 - Brooklyn, NY
Article: Robin Kaiküll ‘26
Photo: Sameem Sarabi ‘24 -
Yadier Peréz“I’ve grown so much here at Bard as a theatre & performance major. I act, sing, perform and also
Yadier Peréz
“I’ve grown so much here at Bard as a theatre & performance major. I act, sing, perform and also
write plays & poetry. I’ve connected with like-minded individuals who come from backgrounds different to my own, with their individual struggles & ambitions. I am a POSSE Puerto Rico Arts Scholar at BARD OEI. There are 9 of us this year — and in them, I've found a sense of community. The OEI Office has been extremely supportive & has given a space for the scholars & individuals of color.”
“I was born & raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a tiny piece of land in the Caribbean. Most of my family is from the beautiful mountains, so I consider myself a Campo boy. For a long time my siblings and I had lived in the Barrio. We had gotten used to taking multiple transports every morning to school & our mother worked really hard to move us out into a safer neighborhood. Living amidst the chaos of the city my whole life, I’ve found myself in love with the scenic & beautiful atmosphere at Bard that reminds me of the mountains where the rest of my family resides.”
“I’ve been lucky & grateful to get an opportunity to pursue my dreams but many Puerto Ricans have to pursue opportunities to live. There’s no denying that the U.S & Puerto Rico have complicated relations; Puerto Rico is a “free associated state” of the USA. I’ve always wondered ‘how can one be free of something but simultaneously associated with it?’. It makes me question the serious impacts of US Imperialism in Latin America. The government back home does make matters complex but laws made by the U.S. benefit themselves more than the locals.”
“My POSSE & I are committed to the Bard community as a whole — but in particular, to advocate for the artists on campus: musicians, dancers, visual artists & theater artists, to bring forth artists of color and from marginalized contexts by using our voices to empower, connect & create together. A long-term ally of Bard College, The Posse Foundation, for the first time is in collaboration with renowned theater personality Lin Manuel Miranda!”
Yadier Peréz ‘26 - San Juan
Article: Ariha Shahed ‘26
Photo: Sameem Sarabi ‘24 -
Nathan Cho“I come from South Korea’s capital, Seoul, a great place to live & a neater version of NYC I would say. I was
Nathan Cho
“I come from South Korea’s capital, Seoul, a great place to live & a neater version of NYC I would say. I was
born & raised there till I turned 19. I am a Computer Science major & my passion for the subject evolved as I learned coding in middle school”
“After 3 semesters at home & a study abroad program at Stony Brook University, Long Island, NY, my desire to transfer to the US was cemented. However, COVID-19 had other plans. My semester was cut short & we had to leave the campus within 24 hours. Unable to fly immediately, some students, including me, were all allocated into the same dorm — it was then when I developed the closest relationships with my peers. With nothing much to do, I decided to join the 2 year military training, mandatory for all South Korean men”
“College is standardized in the way that everyone joins with the purpose to learn. In the military, however, there are people from all across the country from varying socio-economic backgrounds. One is randomly assigned anywhere & I ended up in the northern region— with no access to phones & option to leave the base once in 2 months, life was intriguing & different. It taught me the virtues of patience & resilience. After my service ended in summer 2022, I transferred as a junior. The multiplicity & zeal of the East Coast, topped with Bard’s small classes & close relations one develops with professors — Bard was an easy choice. Students bring in their creativity and artistic skills rather than a STEM-heavy culture”
“Computer science is one of the smaller departments here which led me to start a computer science club. The theory-based program motivated me to form an outlet for students to get more hands-on experience. We’re working on an app catered to an improved dining hall experience & a redesigned course list website — along with other fun projects committed to enhancing life at Bard. I do wish the department had more students, but this has also given me the scope to venture out & meet friends in other fields.”
“Other than that, I’m interested in photography, of mainly utilitarian subjects. It’s fascinating!”
Nathan Cho ‘24 - Seoul
Article - Ariha Shahed ‘26
Photo - Sameem Sarabi ‘24 -
Tatiana Blackhorse“I study sociology and psychology, mostly, to be able to help others, focusing on mental health. The general system can be quite backward; Individuals with
Tatiana Blackhorse
“I study sociology and psychology, mostly, to be able to help others, focusing on mental health. The general system can be quite backward; Individuals with
mental health issues who are experiencing homelessness for example, instead of getting help, are stigmatized and at risk of being arrested, especially in the city, where authorities and police continue to dismantle encampments. I think the normalized negligence of mental health is an issue that should be talked about more.”
“My family, especially my parents, are a major part of my life. Besides offering me a memorable childhood, they shaped me in a lot of ways, not only culturally, but also in terms of my character. They mean a lot to me, and I appreciate their constant support. I am Hungarian from my mom's side and Navajo from my dad's. I was able to grow up close to my Hungarian family during the summers, where I also learned the language. I am grateful to be so in touch with my culture and traditions from my dad's side, growing up with tipi ceremonies, or learning how to pray with cedar or sage. I founded the Indigenous Students Association, as I noticed the lack of such, and saw an opportunity to start something. I want to show people the beauty of Indigenous culture, not only from a Native American standpoint, but from all indigenous people's, and to create an inclusive community. Anyone is welcome to join, I don't think you have to be Indigenous to represent the culture or educate others on their history. I wish to do fun activities like dreamcatcher workshops, and am planning a powwow; a big celebratory gathering with singers or dancers, as a way to celebrate our heritage.”
“I lived in the Bronx for half of my life, until moving near Poughkeepsie. My education in the city was not the greatest, so I faced hardships in my studies after the transition and took AIS classes. I was very hardworking throughout high school until I went to Bard Early College, where I was able to meet amazing people, including my current roommate. I remember always wanting to pursue a better education, which is something I can now do at Bard.”
Tatiana Blackhorse ('26) - NY
Article - Robin Kaiküll
Photo - Sameem Sarabi -
Aleksey Pak“I’m a junior sociology student from the American University of Central Asia, here for a semester within the OSUN Mobility Program. Although a singular building, AUCA is home to a diverse group of students,
Aleksey Pak
“I’m a junior sociology student from the American University of Central Asia, here for a semester within the OSUN Mobility Program. Although a singular building, AUCA is home to a diverse group of students,
and in a way, a hub for promoting different social movements in Kyrgyzstan. My home country, in the heart of Central Asia, is distinguished by majestic mountains and beautiful nature. Despite the cultural differences, life at Bard is very calm and reminds me of back home. It has been an amazing opportunity to meet new people from Bard, as well as other institutions.”
“Although raised and born in Bishkek, I am ethnically Korean, and the same applies to around 20 thousand people in Kyrgyzstan. The Koryo-Saram, ethnic Koreans in the post-Soviet countries, were forcefully relocated during the early 20th century, a time when Korea was yet undivided. Being an ethnic minority is a big part of my life, but also the reason I chose to study sociology, as I am able to explore crucial aspects of my own identity. As much as I enjoy sociology, it can be overwhelming to constantly think about the imperfections of our world. Dancing, on the other hand, offers me a safe space and a method of stress relief.”
“I mainly chose Bard for the dance program, to be able to experience it in my curriculum, rather than just as a hobby. I was never very enthusiastic about dancing up until 2014 when I took it upon myself to join different courses. I eventually fell in love with waacking, a style that emerged in LA during the 70s disco era as a way of empowerment for the queer community. I founded my own dance group, actively performing in events organized by the Korean Embassy, and constantly winning in a variety of dance festivals. Here at Bard, I study modern dance and dance composition, dance forms very different from what I am used to. It is rewarding, as I get to know myself as a dancer from a completely different perspective, in addition to having good practice for physical strength. Other than the good memories, dancing is something I wish to continue in the future, and perhaps make a career out of”
Aleksey ('24) - Bishkek
Article - Robin Kaiküll ‘26
Photo - Sameem Sarabi '24 -
Tahia Prachyo“I grew up in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Although the city is generally very noisy & polluted, it is, however, filled with plenty of opportunities. People from all across the country move to Dhaka with big ambitions.
Tahia Prachyo
“I grew up in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Although the city is generally very noisy & polluted, it is, however, filled with plenty of opportunities. People from all across the country move to Dhaka with big ambitions.
While I've always preferred the beautiful country-side, particularly my father's hometown, Rajshahi, the best education & jobs are available in Dhaka. Regardless, the opportunities back home are not a lot compared to the endless resources available in the US. In 2018 I moved to New York, as my father found a new job, & was looking for a lifestyle change. He wanted my brother & I to get a better education. In the US, I had to complete 4 years of high school education in 3 years as the credit transfer process is complicated for students hailing from developing nations. Changes are pretty drastic & one has to make quick adiustments"
"I spent some of my childhood in Malaysia. I was happy there. When I moved back to Bangladesh, I felt that the education system was somewhat gut-wrenching due to heavy work-load, & the affect it had on my mental health. On the other hand, it trained me to work under pressure, & grow as a disciplined student."
"I fell in love with the Bard campus & immediately thought, hey, I guess I belong here. Something I really appreciate about Bard is free speech. Bangladesh isn't as democratic as it used to be 20 years ago. Freedom of speech is constantly compromised. It felt like we were living in a constituted, voiceless place where we were unable to express our opinions & experiences freely. I want to emphasize that it is essential for everyone to have an outlet where they can express themselves & feel comfortable. In my freetime, I love to paint. It brings me peace & helps mitigate stress.”
“I'm interested in a career in academia, specifically as a professor, as educators strengthen the backbone of a civilized society. I hope to see Bangladesh become a democracy not by name but by its actions & justice system
- free speech & peaceful coexistence regardless of one's gender, religion, ethnicity & socioeconomic status."
Tahia Prachyo ('26) - Dhaka
Article - Ariha Shahed '26 & Robin Kaiküll '26
Photo - Sameem Sarabi' 24 -
Masha Krichevsky“Art is a strong passion of mine. There are never-ending options to create something meaningful. I have always been inspired by films and the way they make us feel, whether it is horror or joy. There is something incredibly rewarding in the process of movie-making, being able to control the images
Masha Krichevsky
“Art is a strong passion of mine. There are never-ending options to create something meaningful. I have always been inspired by films and the way they make us feel, whether it is horror or joy. There is something incredibly rewarding in the process of movie-making, being able to control the images
and narratives I put forward.” “Growing up in Los Angeles, I was always surrounded by people related to the film industry. Various stereotypes surround the city, and people expect a certain magic from it. At the end of the day, it is an enormous city with diverse communities, where one can find so much love, culture, and heritage to appreciate. To me, it is home, a place of comfort and family.”
“My parents emigrated from Ukraine to LA in the 90s, so I grew up speaking Russian, and only learned English in pre-school. There is also a lot of stigma around Russian speakers in the US, and at times it felt hard to fit in. As I grew older, I started to distance myself from Russian without even realizing it. Now in college, I have been trying harder to connect to my roots, and often try to represent my community and heritage, for example integrating Ukrainian folktales into my work, both in art and film.”
“I had visited my father in Ukraine just 2 days before the war started. People often viewed me as the spokesperson and expected me to have answers to their questions. Although it comes from good intention, I would encourage people to do their own research. It is unfortunate that war is the reason for which many people know about certain cultures, as this can be very diminishing to one's identity.”
“Bard was an easy choice for me, as I wanted to experience living on the East Coast, on a campus with plenty of nature and a creative community. It is definitely a place of opportunity and supply. I also wanted to study abroad for a long time, and Bard Berlin made the most sense to me. The process was simple, and I experienced a smooth transition. It pushed me to grow in different ways, from dealing with the culture shock to being able to meet people from all over the world.”
Masha Krichevsky ('23) - LA
Article created and photos taken by Robin Kaiküll (‘26) -
Murwarid Babai“After graduating from the Afghan-Turk high school, I started my bachelors degree in Kabul, at the American University of Afghanistan, a school that hosts dedicated students and amazing faculty members. Simultaneously, in the fall of 2021, I partook in an OSUN class and it was wonderful to learn together with students from all around the world.
Murwarid Babai
“After graduating from the Afghan-Turk high school, I started my bachelors degree in Kabul, at the American University of Afghanistan, a school that hosts dedicated students and amazing faculty members. Simultaneously, in the fall of 2021, I partook in an OSUN class and it was wonderful to learn together with students from all around the world.
Now at Bard, I also work as an intern for OSUN Civic Engagement, and love the community that surrounds it. There are so many resources to learn something new, and their global impact is incredible.” “Our homeland will always be dear to us. Regardless, I have grown to appreciate the American culture and the freedom within it. I have faced a lot of welcoming people, but do not expect everyone to view Afghanistan in a positive manner due to the media that surrounds us. Taliban and the war are very unfortunate for the country and all of its people, but there is so much more to Afghanistan. We have an amazing culture and beautiful individuals that are often undermined and left without representation. So much of our true beauty is ignored.”
“I do miss home in a variety of ways. I would love to go back one day, but it might be impossible to ever return to the life we once had. However, I am happy to get to represent my country along with other Afghan students here at Bard. I am fortunate enough to continue my education and be the voice for the girls back home that are not allowed to do so.”
Murwarid Babai ('22) - Kabul
Article created and photos taken by Robin Kaiküll (‘26) -
Evguenia Alechine“I am a science communicator, but wear many different hats in my career. I do a lot of teaching but also work as a freelancer, both in Argentina and internationally. Since starting in this field 8 years ago, I've transitioned from working with scientific papers to delivering information to the general public. I also switched from editing to writing my own papers, project management, and creating content.”
Evguenia Alechine
“I am a science communicator, but wear many different hats in my career. I do a lot of teaching but also work as a freelancer, both in Argentina and internationally. Since starting in this field 8 years ago, I've transitioned from working with scientific papers to delivering information to the general public. I also switched from editing to writing my own papers, project management, and creating content.”
“Regardless, I mostly focus on teaching, as scientists are not always taught to communicate the science they do.”
“I am also a facilitator at a leadership program for women in science, creating awareness and public action in regard to climate change. My role is to help the women with their visibility as female scientists, as it can get challenging to speak up and own the place you deserve.”
“Here at Bard, I am a visiting faculty member, and a lead for the science communication strand. This is my second Citizen Science, they initially reached out to me after my article published in Nature, about my transition from academica to science communication. The people here are very out-spoken and motivated, and I can see the strong passion not to settle for anything.”
“Science literacy is very important. We often doubtlessly trust the information we come across, or distrust it without a real foundation. People don't always feel as if they have the tools or power to find those answers themselves. It's necessity was very evident during the pandemic, when people started making informed decisions, in regards to masks or vaccines. Since then, the need for better science communicators has increased.”
“After mastering in biomedical sciences, I completed my PHD in biochemistry, in the field of human genetics. I did not want to be an academic scientist, and soon realized that the thing I enjoy the most about science is communicating it. Over time came experience, but networking: being active in my community, is what pushed my career forward. I might not be doing what I thought I would, but I am happy because it led me to my career today.”
Evguenia Alechine - Argentina
Article created and photos taken by Robin Kaiküll ’26 -
Greta Varga ’26“Hungary has a complicated relationship with the global world, sailing between the East and West. Our long serving PM Viktor Orbán and his party have veered far from the formative liberal views that got him elected in 2010 to authoritarian and right-wing principles that now divide the country. For example, they have passed laws making it impossible for transgender people to change their gender, or banned LGBT content in schools or kids' TV.”
Greta Varga ’26
“Hungary has a complicated relationship with the global world, sailing between the East and West. Our long serving PM Viktor Orbán and his party have veered far from the formative liberal views that got him elected in 2010 to authoritarian and right-wing principles that now divide the country. For example, they have passed laws making it impossible for transgender people to change their gender, or banned LGBT content in schools or kids' TV.”
“The Government has also cracked down on "western” education and closed institutions such as the CEU, an affiliate of Bard, forcing them to move to Vienna. When people hear where I am from, they either immediately point out the problems Hungary is facing, or are unaware of them completely. It can be tiresome to face generalisations made about Hungarians, and I do wish there were more opportunities and spaces for informative and purposeful conversation.”
“After the Revolution of 1956, an uprising started by students against the communist Government that left thousand killed and wounded, nearly a quarter-million Hungarians fled the country. Subsequently, Bard welcomed around 300 students who had become refugees. Additionally, it is George Soros, a Hungarian-American philanthropist, who funds the OSUN network, which aims to reach the students who need it the most, promoting the values of free expression and diversity of beliefs. Bard's connection to Hungary was part of the reason for which I and a few others chose this Liberal Education. What I like about Bard is how students are constantly pushed out of their comfort zones to try new things. Regardless, I wish more students took advantage of their opportunities here, as Bard is exceptionally resourceful.”
“I've been dancing since I was little, as it has always been a source of peace and comfort. Last term I took the African contemporary dance course. Although quite challenging, it was much fun, and the professor did a fantastic job integrating his Burkinabe roots into the class. Because of all the joy dancing offers me, I never took it professionally but rather as something I do for myself.”
Greta Varga ’26 - Hungary
Article created and photos taken by Robin Kaiküll ’26 -
Thanasis Kostikas ’26“I'd say that living in Athens is never chaotic, but rather safe, easy to navigate and compact. This however, renders a rather homogenous population. A big problem that Greece is facing is the ageing population, as the youth tend to leave due to the lack of opportunities. Transitioning from a private to a public school, I noticed how financial inequality affected students. Those, who could afford going abroad for conferences or clubs, were led to a more global mindset, with a likelihood of university abroad.”
Thanasis Kostikas ’26
“I'd say that living in Athens is never chaotic, but rather safe, easy to navigate and compact. This however, renders a rather homogenous population. A big problem that Greece is facing is the ageing population, as the youth tend to leave due to the lack of opportunities. Transitioning from a private to a public school, I noticed how financial inequality affected students. Those, who could afford going abroad for conferences or clubs, were led to a more global mindset, with a likelihood of university abroad.”
“Studying the International Baccalaureate, I knew I would go abroad for university, as Greek schools do not accept the diploma. I'd always dreamed of working in the financial sector, so Bard, with it's strong economics department stood out to me, and I wanted to seize the opportunity. I was welcomed by the creativity and great opportunities, that not only allow students to grow as people, but enter their careers with an advantage. People are unsurprisingly very respectful and open to learning more about Greece. There is also a Greek club, where we organize language sessions or movie screenings.”
“Upon arrival I was unfamiliar with OSUN, but interning with them has made me appreciative of their work environment and global outreach. I am constantly reminded of an array of perspectives and ideas. Participating in the Student Leadership Conference, I talked with people from all across the world. The organization is not as known in Bard as in other partner schools, so I wish more students took advantage of what they have to offer. Online classes, for example, offer new insight on how a topic would be taught in a different environment. I think that college is the best place to develop your interests, and add new pieces to your growing personality. A hobby of mine, unrelated to my other interests is tennis. A huge part of my life, it is not only a way for me to relax and train, but meet new people, and figure out my place at Bard. Building a community here is easy, as long as you make an effort, you will never be turned down a friendship.”
Thanasis Kostikas ’26 – Athens
Article created and photos taken by Robin Kaiküll ’26 -
Ondina McDonald ’26“Born in NYC, I grew up in Rome, and would say that the general approach to life is quite different. I feel as if leisure is more prioritized, and do miss the comfort of home. On the other hand, there are prevalent norms that one adheres to and strict groups of people they find themselves in. Something I appreciate about the US is the respect for other people's ways of living. Rome, the center of Catholicism is not the most progressive environment. Moving here for college, I now view it as a hub of innovation and artistic creativity, especially New York. You do find that in Italy, but in an environment with such a strong basis of monuments, how do you work on creating something new?”
Ondina McDonald ’26
“Born in NYC, I grew up in Rome, and would say that the general approach to life is quite different. I feel as if leisure is more prioritized, and do miss the comfort of home. On the other hand, there are prevalent norms that one adheres to and strict groups of people they find themselves in. Something I appreciate about the US is the respect for other people's ways of living. Rome, the center of Catholicism is not the most progressive environment. Moving here for college, I now view it as a hub of innovation and artistic creativity, especially New York. You do find that in Italy, but in an environment with such a strong basis of monuments, how do you work on creating something new?”
“Coming to Bard, I was overwhelmed by how much I enjoyed it. Being surrounded by such a creative community is very encouraging and refreshing. I believe L&T to have been a great introduction to College, drawing or writing poetry under a willow tree really changed my approach to creative thinking. Although the honeymoon phase did in a way end, I find joy in acknowledging the community around me, as we all cohabit a rather small campus. The isolation many of us feel is an opportunity to evolve as a person, as life will only get faster from here.”
“Surrounded by music my whole life, it has been a way for me to connect to myself and my family. When singing, I enter a completely different state. What I really love about music, is that it's a universal language, and by interpreting it through your own lens it becomes yours. At Bard, I have access to the amazing conservatory and am constantly inspired by students so passionate about their craft. As much as I adore classical music, I also love jazz and musical theater, and believe that Liberal Arts will allow me to approach music in a more interdisciplinary way. I think that musical literacy is very important, being able to differentiate commercial music from artistic, and listening to music as an experience rather than solely something casual. It is as important to create art that has meaning, as it is being aware of where your inspiration comes from.”
Ondina McDonald ’26 – Rome
Article created and photos taken by Robin Kaiküll ’26 -
Aleksander Demetriades ’25“I think that everyone has their own interpretation of Bard. Although different, they are individual and genuine. Coming from a close-knit family with 3 siblings, I was interested in an environment that allowed me to have closer dynamics with the community. To me, Bard is a space that allows for genuine connections, rather than being a number on paper.”
Aleksander Demetriades ’25
“I think that everyone has their own interpretation of Bard. Although different, they are individual and genuine. Coming from a close-knit family with 3 siblings, I was interested in an environment that allowed me to have closer dynamics with the community. To me, Bard is a space that allows for genuine connections, rather than being a number on paper.”
“Life at Bard can get quite slow. Often feeling isolated, it is important to make sure that we are aware of life outside of campus. One way to recognize the wider community around us is by participating in elections. Last August, I started working as an intern with [email protected], where we help students with registration, protecting their right to vote, and hosting forums. Most importantly, we are focused on providing non-partisan information on the candidates and their initiatives. The past semester had been particularly busy, due to the recent midterm elections. As Bard now hosts a polling location on campus, it is especially important to ensure that students are up to date with the topic. Being a student is a full-time job by itself, so trying to catch up on responsibilities such as voting can be daunting for many, especially for students who never had that opportunity or privilege to do so. Witnessing students turn out to vote was gratifying in the sense that something we had actively been working on had a true impact.”
“The College environment is very unique, as having a centralized student body inevitably, leads to a large number of activities and organizations. I also work with the Open Society University Network, where I see how the programs and events that benefit students come to be. There are a variety of opportunities, both virtual and in-person, to be civically engaged, and I believe that most students do so in their own way. From what I have seen as a PC, there are numerous clubs whose leaders spend an immense amount of effort running the programs. Going to even one meeting, does not only offer you the chance to meet individuals with similar interests and forge connections but can also motivate others.”
Aleksander Demetriades ’25 – Miami Beach
Written and photographed by Robin Kaiküll ’26
What Is Your Why?
Why do civic engagement leaders get involved in the work they do? What keeps them going in the face of challenges? In this series, What Is Your Why?, the Bard College Center for Civic Engagement highlights campus and local changemakers.