Profiles in Dartmouth Scholarship

“Creative writing is my art form and passion, and I realized that I needed to find ways to incorporate that into my education,” says Ajayda Griffith ’27, a prospective English and sociology double major from New York. Throughout her first two years at Dartmouth, Ajayda has immersed herself in creative writing classes, honing her craft and growing as a writer. In terms of public policy and sociology, the sophomore dreams of becoming a lawyer to advocate for those whose voices and needs are often overlooked.

Along with discovering her academic passions, Ajayda’s favorite part of her Dartmouth experience has been engaging with the Black community on campus. From staying in Shabazz (the Living Learning Community for African and African American students) to serving on the executive board of several organizations—such as the NAACP, the Afro-American Society, Black Congress, and the Black Underground Theater Association—she has established a place for herself on campus. As well, Ajayda has been in close contact with Black first-year students to ensure they feel prepared for classes and welcome wherever they go.

Neuroscience major and Connecticut native Evan Accatino ’25 may have reached the end of his undergraduate career, but his time in Hanover is far from over. In the fall of 2025, he will be attending the Geisel School of Medicine, where he will begin earning his MD. Evan is excited about gaining a better understanding of the health issues that are most relevant to residents of the Upper Valley, as well as bringing new knowledge and skills back to

Dartmouth Health once he begins traveling for clinical rotations.
When he’s not busy studying on the upper floors of the Class of 1982 Engineering and Computer Science Center, Evan can be found exploring hiking trails and spending time by the Connecticut River. “I am beyond excited to continue exploring the outdoor opportunities that the region provides.”

Hailing from Elkhorn, Nebraska, Kensington TeKrony ’27 is an athlete with the heart of an artist. Her passion for creativity and connection drives everything she does, including the discovery of new outlets for artistic expression. “Over the summer, I worked as a florist, and the joy I found in designing floral arrangements taught me how art and creativity can bring people together in meaningful ways,” she says. “Whether through floral design, my studies, or team experiences like volleyball, I’m always seeking ways to collaborate with others and build community.” In the coming year, Kensington is excited to continue pursuing her studio art minor and looks forward to connecting with peers who share her passion for creativity.

A middle blocker on the women’s varsity volleyball team, Kensington is a part of the Dartmouth Black Student Athlete Alliance and was a member of the executive board, which she says has profoundly impacted her perspective on the importance of connection and alumni relations. “These experiences have greatly enriched my Dartmouth journey, providing me with a sense of balance, camaraderie, and personal growth.”

Born in Puerto Rico, raised in New York, and now a study-abroad alum after his FSP to Vietnam, history major Kenny Mok ’25 is no stranger to the world and the broad perspectives it offers. It’s interesting, then, that his favorite part about Dartmouth is its small, close-knit campus, far from the fast-paced energy he’s used to. “More specifically,” he says, “being three hours away from a major city makes life much easier to appreciate—the quality time spent with friends, along with the nature that surrounds us, truly makes it a beautiful location to go to school.”

Though he appreciates the College’s small population, Kenny’s favorite place on campus, Novack Café, is a great example of the breadth of perspectives and experiences that define his community of fellow scholars. “I see the café as a cultural hub, where people of all identities socialize and converse while waiting for their order, or, looking at the other side of the spectrum, where a group of committed, diverse students work through the morning and afternoon and late-night rush.”