Syd Levine ’27
Smithie Snapshots
Other clubs, sports, activities you’d like to mention:
During the academic year, I continue my work as an Admissions Ambassador! I have a WOZQ show with my friends about women's sports. I also work breakfast meal swipe at the CC Cafe.
Where is your favorite spot on campus?
I absolutely love the basement of the Alumnae Gym. It's a great study space and usually pretty empty. The chairs are super comfortable and sometimes I go there just to hang out.
Describe your major in five words or fewer.
Not just for future teachers!
Who has been your favorite professor at Smith? What do you like most about their teaching style?
Ana Del Conde, in the SWGS department formerly and now Anthropology, is my favorite professor! I have taken her courses in three out of the four semesters I have been at Smith. Not only is she incredibly caring and understanding, but her teaching methods make her field accessible to all. She balances student participation in the class with explanation and discussion of theory. She encourages group work and projects, but allows the class to build trust with one another before any group work. The readings Ana gives are not overly academic, and when they are, she offers time to discuss both in office hours and in class.
What is your dream job or career goal?
My dream job is to be a librarian! I love books, and although I want to work primarily to increase book access for young children, I'd love to become a librarian. I love libraries, and the importance they hold in a community.
How did Smith’s open curriculum help you explore academically?
I love the open curriculum!! It is my biggest "Why Smith," and was super important during my college search. I came in declared as a Comparative Literature Major, and promised to myself that I would take all different classes my first semester. That is how I found the SWGS major!
What do you think has been the most “Smithie” thing you’ve done in life so far?
Every semester so far, I have let a different friend cut my hair! It started tame and now I have a mullet.
Is there a piece of advice you wish you could go back and tell yourself as a first-year?
I certainly wish I could go back and tell that firstie to spend more time in the library. No matter how awesome studying in a friend's place seems, it is not conducive to locking in.
What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?
This past semester was most certainly the hardest thing I've ever done. I balanced 20 credits, 2 jobs, and health issues. I put my all into all of it, and it worked out pretty well!
What do you love most about Northampton?
I love how walkable Northampton is! I can get from my house to downtown quickly and there is so much to do. I love going to the farmer’s market or any of the three bookstores!
What is your favorite thing about your house at Smith?
I love my house kitchen! I know it’s crazy that it’s my favorite, but it's the reason I moved into Morris. There is a window with a wonderful view of Tyler House.
What is your favorite Smith tradition?
Convo banner/House Theme reveal is one of my favorite Smith traditions. Not only does it mean we get to come back to campus soon, but they are always super creative and super pretty!