Alya Mikhasiova ’28
Smithie Snapshots
Other clubs, sports, activities you’d like to mention:
Game Development Club, Juggling (amateur), Art Department’s Handyman, International Students Organization
Where is your favorite spot on campus?
Capen Garden! Paradise Pond is a runner-up.
Describe your major in five words or fewer.
undecided artistic intellectual
How did Smith’s open curriculum help you explore academically?
Took 3/4 classes out of my major last semester—exploration is a key!
What is your favorite thing about your house at Smith?
My house’s windows directly face Paradise Pond... So easy to distract yourself from homework while looking out the window.
Who has been your favorite professor at Smith? What do you like most about their teaching style?
Cati Bestard from the Arts department! She has a very encouraging and inspiring teaching approach, but also spot-on suggestions on improvement. (Runner up: Sara Newland in the Government Department!)
Describe a moment in class that left a lasting impression on you.
I remember making a zine about my country for Sara Newland’s Comparative Politics class, and seeing people in class actively reading and discussing it. Later, the professor reached out to me, and advised me to submit my work to a zine competition. I felt seen and appreciated!
What is the best class you’ve taken outside of your major?
Magdalena Zapedowska’s writing intensive on “Abolishing Prisons and Police”—terrific experience! Amazing readings, thought-provoking discussions, museum visits—I already miss this class.
What do you think has been the most “Smithie” thing you’ve done in life so far?
Kayaking in Paradise Pond for the first time with my friend on an autumn afternoon! Red forest around, clear water, and good company made that day so special.