Senior Ranissa Adityavarman has made her Colgate experience one to remember, and one worth capturing on film. 

An International Relations and Economics concentrator, Adityavarman knew what she wanted to study early on. It was Colgate’s strong alumni network, though, that led her to make her choice. 

Although she now serves as the president of Konosioni, Colgate’s Senior Honor Society,  Adityavarman made an impact as early as her first year here. 

“I’m still heavily involved in the Student Government Association (SGA). I began first semester of my first year, starting off as senator; now I’m Chief of Staff,” Adityavarman said.

In addition to contributing leadership skills to fundraise within Gamma Phi Beta sorority, Adityavarman has served on the University Student Conduct board, tutored for the Utica Refugee Tutoring program and worked in the Dean’s Office.

Adityavarman’s travels and accomplishments abroad have extended her Colgate experience off campus. 

“This past summer, I volunteered at a health clinic teaching English in Bali, Indonesia. The prior summer, I went on an extended study in South Africa, worked at a nonprofit in New York City and worked at an Indonesian consulate. And studying abroad in Geneva was incredible. You not only travel, but you study and work there, so it was a unique experience that has shaped my Colgate years,” Adityavarman said.

Adityavarman is a firm believer in taking time to appreciate the beautiful things life has to offer. 

“Sometimes the drive to Hamilton Hill to watch the sunset with friends is just as important as a quiz grade,” Adityavarman said. 

As she reflects on her past four years at Colgate, Adityavarman likes to think of her college experience as something out of a well-crafted movie. 

“That all nighter at Case is a beautiful thing in the context of your life and story. You won’t remember the pain of your all-nighters in Case, but you’ll remember the people you shared them with. ” Adityavarman said. 

In the next chapter of her life, Adityavarman hopes to be “happy, healthy and advocating for people who otherwise can’t, whether through law, government or diplomacy.”

“Make your Colgate movie interesting. Make your character do new things, and really appreciate every moment that you have here, because it’s the only way that you’ll be able to look back on your experience and say, ‘what a wonderful plot I’ve had,’” Adityavarman said.