Miranda Talavera Béjar '27
Hometown: Tepic, Mexico
Languages: English, German, Spanish
Major: Political Science
Minor: Anthropology
Main extracurricular activities: MiddDIB (Middlebury Diversity in Business) co-president, German tutor, Political editor for AnthroMagazine, Political Science Research Assistant, building a hydroponic garden with the Makerspace (industrial design lab)
What’s your favorite study spot on campus? Anywhere in the Mahaney Arts Center! It is quiet, cozy, and perfect for studying by yourself or with friends. I also enjoy being close to a drum set for when I need a study break.
Favorite food in the dining hall? Vegan skillet and O’Brian potatoes for breakfast in Proctor, vegan buffalo wings for lunch in Ross, and anything from the salad bar in Atwater for dinner
Favorite Vermont spot? Favorite Middlebury location? My favorite place in Vermont is Vergennes, home to wonderful restaurants and cozy shops. My favorite place in the town of Middlebury is Otter View Park, a short 10-minute walk from campus and the perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of Otter Creek.
Did you study abroad? I studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark! Due to COVID overenrollment, the college kept its four-year housing guarantee by sending 30 people from my class abroad for our first semester. It was an unconventional way to start college, but it taught me to embrace the unplanned and ended up being the perfect introduction to Midd.
What has been the best, most interesting, or most thought-provoking class you’ve taken at Middlebury? The Political Economy of Drug Trafficking. This class made me question everything I thought I knew about the War on Drugs and how politics and economic incentives at a macro level shape our social realities.
Now that you’re a senior, what advice would you give your younger self about college admissions or the transition into college? You are choosing your college as much as they are choosing you! Do not be scared to ask as many questions as you need to understand all aspects of student life to find the best fit for you.
Why did you choose to attend Middlebury? I wanted a liberal arts education with an international perspective. I love learning languages and learning about the world and our roles in it. Midd was a natural fit given my academic interests. I also wanted to be surrounded by nature and Vermont is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors no matter the season!