Rafael Nuñez
Dartmouth College

Degrees: B.A. in Romance Studies; Minor in Government

How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
The Stamps Scholarship allowed me to make the most of my college education and pursue an intense independent research project that would end up being my culminating work as a college student. I was able to travel to Argentina and France to research the resurgence of Tango as an expression of local popular culture. Besides the academic skills that I gained by being a Stamps Scholar, I learned how to appreciate a diverse education and work for the betterment of others. Without Stamps, my college experience would not have had the same importance that it now has in my formation.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your freshman self?
Prioritize doing things you love and always set apart time to help others. Remember that the world is so much bigger than what you think.

Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
My Honors Thesis advisor and Professor, Dra. Noelia Cirnigliaro has had an immense impact on me throughout these past 4 years. Not only has she served as my Professor and mentor, but she has become a dear friend. She saw potential in me when I didn’t see it in myself and she has never doubted my intellectual capabilities. Noelia has motivated me beyond the limits I thought I had and her inspiration will remain with me forever.

What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
My favorite memory is in a crowded second-floor apartment in Buenos Aires where I clutched complete strangers in my arms as we danced Tango to the music of a live orchestra until the sun rose.

What comes next?
I will be attending Georgetown Law with the desire to become an immigration lawyer and eventually a politician. I hope to return to my hometown of Irvington, New Jersey and becom the mayor so that I can uplift the community in which I was raised.

Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” – Jesus Christ in Mark 8:36