Birds chirp, the atmosphere is tranquil, but my brother’s crumpled body lies in the middle of the street, alone.  We were all awake by 6:00 that day. While my parents diligently prepared breakfast, my brothers and I got dressed. The morning of Tuesday, October 23, 2018, was like every other in the Pasato household. So, we were all caught off guard when the unexpected, a disruption to our silent choreography, exploded our morning torpor. My mom and my nine-year-old brother, Ian, were...

Every day I carve time out of the day to take a walk or play soccer with friends. Being outside creates a safety valve through which my worries escape and all that consumes me wafts away gently. I’m thrilled that the Dartmouth Outing Club and Dartmouth’s very place in the world will give me opportunities to grow my healing relationship with nature and to take on new outdoor challenges. I also hope to participate in the teaching arm...

Second-born children are often considered the ones constantly making mischief in their families, solely to attract the attention of their parents. It’s assumed their needs are neglected so they’re forced to fend for themselves. My parents, who immigrated here from Ecuador two decades ago, often turned to me as I was growing up to assist with their personal affairs, such as managing their online accounts and phoning their credit card companies to dispute charges. My older brother already...

For as long as I can remember, my friends have served as my strength and stay, guiding me through all that life has thrown in my direction. Naturally, I’ve grown quite attached to each and every one of them, to the point where losing one of them this past summer nearly broke me. Her sudden decision to cease any and all contact with me left me with more questions than answers, and added to the betrayal I felt. For...