Name: Claire B. Dunnigan
Class year: 2014!
Hometown:Mackinac Island and Grass Lake, Michigan?
Major:International Relation
Minor:Chinese
Why Mount Holyoke? I first visited Mount Holyoke College after taking a crazy, slightly spontaneous road trip out East with my mom. I remember visiting the campus, taking a tour, and thinking to myself, “Hey, I really like it here. They have fantastic cookies and I can ride horses!” A year later, after narrowing down the college search I realized that nowhere else was quite like Mount Holyoke. I knew the opportunities here would only change my life for the better!
How are you involved on campus? I love being involved on campus. Last year I was a member of the varsity equestrian team, Vice President of 2014, and a competing member of our Model United Nations club. This year I’m enjoying being a tour guide for the office of admissions as well as a Hall Advisor in Safford (best dorm on campus)! To add to the list, I just made the Western riding team and am going to learn to sail with the 5 College sailing team. I also try to volunteer where I can and support the other clubs on campus.
Where are we most likely to find you on a Saturday night? I’m probably one of the most unpredictable people that you’ll ever know when it comes to having fun. As far as I’m concerned you have to work hard and play hard. I love to mix it up and can be found doing anything from hitting a campus party to studying for an exam. I adore live music and try to hit up Northampton with friends. One thing is for sure: I love to dance and work the high heels!
How do you procrastinate best? Have you heard of Facebook?! I also tend to occupy my time with less immediate tasks such as writing a letter, cleaning my riding boots, or teaching myself how to play ukulele.
Who are your role models? I have been blessed with the most amazing family, as quirky as they are. My mom and dad are by far my biggest role models as well as my older brother, James. They’re my support system and are always challenging me to improve myself. Other role models include Audrey Hepburn, Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu, and Erik Weihenmayer (the only blind adventurer to climb Mount Everest and the Seven Summits).
What are your biggest dreams and goals for the future? When I was little I told everyone that I was going to travel to all seven continents. I have made a big dent in this goal, but it is something that I must fulfill. All of my biggest goals deal with travel and personal happiness. I would really like to end up working with/for National Geographic someday or maybe in the diplomatic field. I could easily see myself in the Peace Corps or joining the Navy. Whatever I end up doing, I want to always be able to have horses and stay connected to my Mackinac Island community. If all else fails I’ll probably pull a Thoreau and spend my days writing about nature.
Fun fact you are willing to share? Hmmmm…. Let’s see: My mom went to one of Mount Holyoke’s daughter schools, Lake Erie College (also all female at the time), and she’s one of the smartest people I know! Also… I can unwrap a Starburst with just my tongue (just saying)!