Wicking and Soaring

Jahcenya Evans

Class of ’26

Major: Computer Science

Minor: Cybersecurity

Hometown: Queens, New York

What do I want to do in the future in this field?

I want to be a cybersecurity analyst. 

What led me to this major? Was it my first choice?

I have wanted to pursue computer science since high school. But where I went to school – The Young Women’s Leadership School of Queens – they didn’t have it. So, I hesitated and went to psychology for my first fall semester as a first-year student. I love psychology but soon realized it just wasn’t for me as it’s what I see myself doing long term. I went to a professor in the computer science department who urged me to join and then later became an advisor of mine. 

Any extracurricular activities?

I serve as a senator on the Student Government Association’s Dining/Communications Committee and a public relations/social media coordinator for the Caribbean Student Association.

Why am I a part of this group? 

I joined this committee because it allows me to use my voice and bring suggestions and more attention to issues and situations at Hartwick College. This includes things such as dorm improvements and coordinating fun events on campus with different committees and clubs that are active on campus and, more broadly, the Student Government Association. I also joined the Caribbean Student Association as it’s really inclusive and accepting of my culture and others. It’s also just a very fun club!

What advice would you give to a first-year about taking the computer science/cyber security programs at Hartwick College?

In the beginning, you may feel overwhelmed, and that’s okay. You won’t feel like that forever. And with hard work and practice, you’re going to shine. When you need help, never be afraid to ask. The more you ask, the more you know. The more you build relationships with your professor or tutor, the more they will see your determination to succeed. That’s all there is to it!

What keeps me going in your field of study when I need it the most?

First of all, God keeps me going. Without him, I don’t know where I’ll be. Second, my family and my friends show love and support when I need it. I have a very close friend in this field who is going through the same things that I am going through yet still shines, which is very inspirational. Third, my professors keep me going. I’m very blessed to have professors in my field who love what they do and help students, especially me. When you hear the stereotype about going to college – that no one cares about you – especially the professors – that’s wrong, especially at Hartwick. The professors care about you. But keep in mind that it’s a two-way street, meaning you have to show you care in order for them to support you in all the ways you need to achieve success.

When college life gets challenging, how do you rise above it? 

Here are some tips that took me a while to learn and get adjusted – but they work! 

• It’s ok to need space. Take your space when you need it – no matter your emotional state.
• When you need to talk, just talk. Don’t feel bad for having to vent. Just remember to warn the person you’re venting to first so they can be receptive to what you’re going to say. And respect that they may or may not want to hear it at that particular moment. Remember, everyone’s mental health matters.
• Do something that makes you happy. Don’t worry if it’s a hobby or something you picked up and will never do again for the next five years. When you get an opportunity to make yourself happy, take it!
• Sleep and exercise. Doing those two things in your life helps you with everything. They really do reduce stress.

Sarah Hiroshima 

Class of ’26

Major: Psychology 

Hometown: Manhattan, New York

How did you hear about Hartwick? What drew you in?

I heard about Hartwick from my high school guidance counselor and school psychologist and was drawn in by the small campus size and inclusivity.

What led you to your major? Was it your first choice?

I have always wanted to become a psychologist and decided that I was going to be a psychology major in college because I was fascinated with learning about how the mind works as well as how we behave. 

What advice would you give first-year students about taking psychology  at Hartwick College?

Every major takes a lot of hard work and dedication, and it is not an easy road, especially the transition from high school to college-standard academic levels. But as long as you push yourself and work hard, you will continue to grow, learn and further your education.

What do you want to do in the future in this field? 

I want to and look forward to becoming a psychologist so I can help individuals in the preteen, teenage and young adult years. 

Margarita Chistiakova

Class of ’26

Majors: Computer Science and Web Design

Minor: Cybersecurity

Hometown: Yaroslavl, Russia

How did you hear about Hartwick? What drew you in?

I learned about Hartwick by accident! I was looking for liberal arts colleges in the US and saw a picture of Hartwick’s campus. From that moment, I knew I was going to study here.

What led you to this major? Was it your first choice?

I picked computer science as my major because I did not know what to do. I knew for sure that I didn’t want to be a doctor because I grew up in a family of doctors! So, my parents suggested it and I thought,  ‘why not?’. I didn’t think I was very good at tech – until my first computer science class at Hartwick. My professor was extremely supportive, and I learned everything needed for comp-sci in my first year. And here I am now, actively applying for internships in the tech field.

What do you want to do in the future in this field? 

I would like to be a web developer or a software developer. I love web and coding, and I am sure I will be a valuable asset to companies. I also aspire to create my own websites and apps with social innovation in mind, as this ties in directly to what I want to pursue in the future. I am currently working on a research project about the possible use of technology/AI in art therapy.

When college life gets challenging, how do you rise above it?

Mental health does play an integral role in one’s life. Good mental health helps us function better and allows us to ‘give more’ to the world around us. I do a bunch of things to stay sane in the modern world and in response to anything that brings me stress. I often dance and sing in my room. It helps release stress and negative emotions and is a perfect way to let something go. I also love going on walks around campus or to Neahwa Park. Another thing that helps my mental health a lot is rewatching ‘cozy’ shows or movies, especially when I don’t feel well. It helps me bring up warm memories. Finally, I talk to my parents. I haven’t seen them for more than a year now, but we are always in touch, and sometimes calling them and venting about all of my concerns and life updates helps a lot! It makes me feel supported and loved.

Ashley Reiss 

Class of ’26

Major: Psychology

Hometown: Queens, New York

How did you hear about Hartwick? What drew you in?

I heard about Hartwick via email, and their psychology program drew me in.

What led you to this major? Was it your first choice?

I have the desire to help those in need. I originally wanted to go the nursing route but was more interested in how the human mind works.

What do you want to do in the future in this field?

I want to pursue a career in clinical psychology.

When college life gets challenging, how do you rise above it?

Some days are tougher than others, which is normal. When that happens, I usually take a ‘me’ day and try not to think about what is currently stressing me. On those days, I do things that make me happy, like buying myself a little treat!

Simi Kishore

Class of ’26

Major: Anthropology

Minor: Forensic Science 

Hometown: South Plainfield, New Jersey

How did you hear about Hartwick? What drew you in?
I found out about Hartwick through a scholarship app in high school. I liked that it was a small school with nice views, travel abroad options and many club activities. The first time I visited, the staff and students were all so friendly and welcoming.

If you’re doing any new minors/majors, what drew you in?

The forensic science minor was introduced in 2022 (I believe), and I always had a passion for forensic science. I took courses in high school and excelled. Once I started taking forensic science-related classes at Hartwick, I truly felt like I has found what I was meant to do in life. 

What do you want to do in the future in this field? 

I want to pursue forensic anthropology, which includes the study of cold cases using skeletal remains and artifact analysis. 

When college life gets challenging, how do you rise above it?

Mental health is extremely important. For my mental health’s sake, I try, as often as I can, to cook food that brings me comfort and nostalgia, and keeps me healthy. I also prioritize my hygiene and things like skincare, haircare and wearing clothes I feel good in. When you look good, you tend to feel good!

Do you have any leadership roles? 

I am president of the Asian Culture Club and vice president of the Anthropology Club.