Jaden Richards: Giving Back Through Public Service Be it his time on the AAS or his research on public policy later this year, Jaden Richards is constantly searching for ways to apply his intellectual interests to the real world.
Alyssa Xu: On the Rhodes of Sincerity Alyssa Xu’s path from rural New Brunswick, Canada, to the rarefied ranks of Rhodes Scholars is not just a story of talent and triumph, but of luminous sincerity, fierce curiosity, and a devotion to seeing — and serving — those most often unseen.
Lillia Hammond: From Volleyball Courts to Rocket Science Fueled by boundless curiosity and a deep love for creation, Lillia Hammond '25 forges connections between art and engineering — mentoring, building, and leading with a spark that lights every room she enters.
Jacquelyn Cabarrubia: Building Community at Amherst and Beyond Jacquelyn Cabarrubia’s commitment to fostering community manifests not only in her work revitalizing her heritage language, but also through her dedication to empowering and uplifting every person she meets.
Bela Achaibar: Unraveling the Fabric of Diaspora Bela Achaibar pieced together an education as layered as the cultures she studied, built on curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for where we come from.
Ahanu Youngblood: Chasing Adventure With Boundless Curiosity With steady and unwavering passion, Ahanu Youngblood moves through the world with a quiet confidence: chasing snow, science, and community with a warmth that draws people in, and a drive that pushes boundaries.
Caden Stockwell: Pure Passion and Open Optimism Caden Stockwell channels his bold creative vision into his films and political voice, leaving an unforgettable mark on Amherst through art and leadership.
Thoughts on Theses: Alma Clark Alma Clark ’25 is a senior double majoring in computer science and music. Clark’s thesis is a full-length studio concept album, infusing modern electronic and indie pop to transport listeners 100 years into the future.
Staff Spotlight: Stella Santos Staff Writer Kaitlyn Cappillo ’28 spoke with associate director of New Student & Family Programs Stella Santos. In her interview, Santos discusses her journey to Amherst and her goal of creating connections among first-years, orientation leaders, and staff.
Thoughts on Theses: Maristhela Alvarez Maristhela Alvarez ’25 is a senior majoring in biochemistry. Her thesis explores the potential impact of the NCAM2 protein on cadherin localization in the embryos of Nematostella, a species of starlet sea anemones.
Staff Spotlight: Megan Scutti Staff Writer Litzy Castañeda ’28 spoke with Megan Scutti, Amherst’s nutritionist, about her commitment to helping community members foster healthy habits and a balanced lifestyle amidst the demands of college life.
Fresh Faculty: Nathaniel Brennan Nathaniel Brennan is a visiting professor in Amherst’s film and media studies and English departments. Staff Writer Olivia Tennant ’27 spoke with him about his childhood love for film, his educational trajectory, and his approach to teaching.
Thoughts on Theses: Tim Carroll ’25 Tim Carroll ’25 is a senior majoring in Law, Jurisprudence, and Social Thought. His thesis explores the intersection of philosophy, law, and politics as it relates to animal rights.
Staff Spotlight: Jorge Gonzalez Jorge Gonzalez is Charles Pratt’s beloved first floor custodian. Luchik Belau-Lorberg ’28 spoke with him about his passions for bounty hunting, country music, and inspiring his residents.