1989

This being the nostalgia issue of the Alumni Magazine, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on that nebulous term, "The Dartmouth Experience." Hmm. This term purports to encapsulate four or so years of your life into a general thrill, shared by all. Sort of one big, green roller coaster ride. I choose to amend that term to read "Your Dartmouth Experience." This one doesn't stop after four years.

What is Dartmouth to you? What was it then, and what is it becoming now? Where does it fit into your personal story? Home, Hell, Shangri-La, a testing ground, a hall of mirrors, a haven? Were you "born" at Dartmouth? Think about it. Part of you still lives there.

But do you remember which part? I don't think it's the grinning face which turns up in so many brightly-colored scrap book photos, or the closet wit who takes center stage in a favorite anecdote. Living memories have no punch line. Nobody takes a snapshot of a cathartic walk across the Green, a heart breaking, 3 a.m. euphoria, an idea being born.

Dartmouth lives on in you, and you in it, between the pictures. Whether you identify your four years with joy or with turmoil, there's something in between. Dare to find it, and you shall find Your Dartmouth Experience which has a place in Dartmouth's history and your future. Don't just reminisce. Remember.

Dave Nerrow departed for Saudi Arabia on December 20. He is part of a National Guard MP unit usually stationed at Fort Devens, Mass. May Dave return home safely. Please keep him in your thoughts.

Carrie Luft,42 Bank Street, Apt. 45A, New York, NY 10014