Jaime Medina-Balcazar, '23

Hometown: Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia; Naples & Miami, FL

Major: Neuroscience

Minor: Education Studies

Main extracurricular activities: RIDDIM World Dance Troupe (President), CTLR Writing Center Tutor, Neuroscience Department Research Assistant, Alianza Latinoamericana Caribeña, First@Midd Mentor, PALANA Social House

Why did you choose to attend Middlebury? I knew I wanted to attend a small school because of the opportunities to connect with my professors on a personal level rather than being just another number. Middlebury’s flexibility and diversity of classes would allow me to cultivate all of my academic interests as well without having to sacrifice my personal interests to do so. I also wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and move to a state where I could experience all four seasons to the fullest extent and find peace and beauty in the mountains instead of the beaches.

Favorite study spot? Blue sofa chairs in the Great Hall of McCardell Bicentennial Hall

Favorite food in the dining hall? Taco Tuesdays

Where did you study abroad, or where would you study abroad if you could? Belo Horizonte, Brazil

Favorite Vermont spot? Falls of Lana

One fun fact about you or unknown talent you have: I can crack both of my wrists by twisting them around in a circular motion!