Sorina Johnston '25.5

Hometown: Port Townsend, WA

Major: International Global Studies - Global Migration and Diasporas

Main extracurricular activities: Otter Nonsense Players improv comedy, acapella, songwriting and music production, Oratory Now public speaking coach

Why did you choose to attend Middlebury? I wanted to be at a place where I felt celebrated for my individuality and got to share in and celebrate the individuality of others. Middlebury was a sweet spot in terms of size; having way more students than my high school but not so big that I’d feel lost or unimportant. I was correct in assuming that a goldilocks size at a rather niche school would make for an involved and caring student body, and resultantly, a strong community. Additionally, I knew I wanted the chance to explore a lot of different disciplines academically and be nurtured in my educational and professional development without having to compete with graduate students for resources. I was particularly intrigued by the excellence of Middlebury’s language programs and study abroad opportunities. Coming from a rural area but desiring a little more of a global experience, the combination of scenic Vermont with strong international connections seemed like an exciting opportunity for both comfort and stretch. 

I didn’t have a chance to visit Middlebury before I came, so I had to look pretty logically at the information I had available without the revealing vibe check that actually walking on a campus can bring. I’d heard glowing reviews and seen a lot of passion from the few Midd alumni I knew. I wanted to have a college experience that I was as excited to share about, too. When I examined the aspects of my identity, the values I hold, and the community I grew up in, I realized that Middlebury really resonated with me and would be a fitting next step in my journey. It was impossible to imagine at the time all the things beyond logic that would become such important parts of my time here - lifelong friends and deeply transformative educational, professional, and extracurricular experiences. 

Favorite study spot? Axinn! I love the combination of old and modern architecture, plus the air conditioning, big windows, and zen waterfall. 

Favorite food in the dining hall? Atwater chicken curry salad, or my daily ruby red grapefruit. 

Where did you study abroad, or where would you study abroad if you could? I studied abroad in Montevideo, Uruguay! While in South America, I visited a friend at Middlebury’s campus in Florianopolis, Brazil - locally known as the magic island. If I didn’t want my last few semesters to be here in Vermont, I would study abroad there for a semester, too. 

Favorite Vermont spot? The Gorge (Middlebury River) on the way to Ripton - rain or shine, summer or an exhilarating January dunk after skiing at the Snowbowl.