Jude Altman ’26
Name: Jude Altman
Pronouns: Any pronouns
Hometown: Kapa'a, Kaua'i, Hawaii
Major: Neuroscience
Extracurricular Involvement: Students for Accessibility, Out in Stem (oSTEM)
Email: [email protected]
Why did you join the Diversity and Access Team?
I joined DAT because I am very passionate about DEI work in academia. Additionally, my work at the Queer Resource Center inspired me to work with students from other underrepresented groups. I felt that I
could be a very good resource for students, especially queer or trans students, as they navigate college admissions. I would have loved to talk to a queer or trans college student during my application period, so
I joined DAT so that younger students would have a better experience than I did.
What is the biggest lesson you learned from your first semester on campus?
The biggest lesson I learned after my first semester is that anything is possible if you prioritize it and put in the work. Going into college, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to succeed in my classes but I realized
during my first semester that I simply needed to spend enough time on my work and I would eventually understand the concepts. Understanding this has given me a lot of confidence, as I now know I can
succeed in any course I take.
How has a liberal arts education fostered your thinking?
My liberal arts education has changed my thinking to focus on connections and application. In both my academic and professional work, I apply knowledge and experience from different jobs and classes to
great success. My liberal arts education has taught me to see how so many things I do and learn about connect, and taking advantage of this has deepened my understanding and efficiency.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
The legacy I hope to leave is being known and remembered as someone who helped make people’s lives better. I find a lot of satisfaction in the work I do to help people, and I hope that my work leaves a positive
impression on those people as well.
How has the city of Hartford impacted your college experience?
Going to college in Hartford has impacted my college experience by giving me opportunities to connect with the people and city of Hartford. There are so many great events and places to go in Hartford, and I really enjoy going because it makes me feel connected to where I live. Additionally, I really appreciate the work opportunities available in a city like Hartford. For example, I really enjoyed doing some work at a local high school last summer
What areas of campus make you feel at home?
The Chapel and the Queer Resource Center really feel like home to me on campus. I enjoy going to the chapel for services for that sense of community, but I also feel very at home visiting the chapel at any time to enjoy the space. In fact, I often meditate in the crypt because I feel so comfortable in that space. The Queer Resource Center really feels like a home away from home for me. I spend a lot of time there for work but I often go there outside of work hours to use the resources or just to hang out with friends. I like to borrow books from their library or cook in the kitchen. It’s also a great place to study!
