Hi! I’m Naisha, a first-year student from New Jersey, about 10 hours from home, intending to study Political Science and Economics. Coming to Davidson was a big step for me, especially being so far from home, but I was surprised by how quickly this place started to feel familiar. I’ve loved getting involved and meeting people from all different parts of campus, and I’m still discovering new things every week. You’ll usually find me working in Lily Gallery, our makeshift library, walking from one place to the next on campus, or finding a new organization or event to get involved in. Outside of school, I love writing, cooking, singing, creating art, and swimming. I’m excited to show you the Davidson I’ve gotten to know so far, from the places everyone knows to the little hidden gems you might otherwise walk right past. Most of all, I’d love to make your visit feel comfortable, answer your questions honestly, and help you picture what your own life here could look like.

Hometown

Edison, New Jersey

Major(s)

Political Science, Economics, English

Minor(s)

English, Math

Clubs, organizations & involvement

The Davidsonian, journalism publication Dean Rusk Global Corps, Internal Events Coordinator Davidsonians for Freedom of Thought and Discourse, Marketing & Social Media Intern The Legacy Project Club Swim Fall Deliberative Citizenship Initiative, D Team Crisis Assistance Ministry, Volunteer Habitat for Humanity, Volunteer Ada Jenkins, LEARN Works Classroom Tutor Mentor Entrepreneurship Club Student Government Association

Describe your college experience

Moving ten hours from home to Davidson was a big transition, but I have felt at home here much faster than I expected. I love the campus culture and the opportunities to get involved, and I have become heavily involved in the Davidson community very quickly. What has stood out most is how genuinely encouraging everyone is. People want you to succeed regardless of their role or relationship to you, and there is always someone willing to help, encourage, or connect you with an opportunity. I have never felt bored here because there is always something happening, and I appreciate how much the community invests in helping Davidson students build successful and meaningful lives.

Tip for future students

College starts before you even step onto campus. Start looking into classes, organizations, and opportunities you might want to explore before you arrive so you can make the most of your first few weeks. More importantly, give yourself room to explore. Davidson encourages students to try different classes and subjects before declaring a major, so don’t limit yourself based on what you think you already want to study. Say yes to opportunities, even when they are outside your comfort zone, but also learn when to say no and recognize your limits. You don’t have to do everything to have a meaningful college experience.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been POL 381: Philanthropy and the Non-Profit Sector because it has changed how I think about giving. I’ve been fascinated by the intricacies behind why people give, from altruism and reciprocity to status, moral beliefs, relationships, and even disgust. These are factors I would never have thought could shape philanthropic decisions. I’ve especially enjoyed questioning my own assumptions about why people give and seeing how those motivations play out in real nonprofit organizations.

Career goals

After college, I hope to attend law school, pass the bar, and become a lawyer. I am currently interested in exploring both corporate law and social justice work, and I hope my experiences in college and law school will help me determine where I can make the greatest impact.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night would be spent with friends, whether that means going out to a restaurant, walking around a boardwalk, or finding somewhere new to explore together. I also love quieter nights where I can make art, watch a good show, and just relax. Really, anything that lets me spend time with people I enjoy while doing something fun or creative.

High school or secondary school

Edison High School

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot on campus so far is the Lily Gallery, which has become my makeshift library while our actual library is being renovated. I love the balance between its calm atmosphere and conversational energy. I get a lot of work done there, but I also meet new people and have conversations I probably would not have had elsewhere. The faculty are also incredibly welcoming and always willing to help, which makes the space feel both productive and community-oriented.