Members of the Class of 2029 began their college journey this week, stepping onto campus for the first time as students and adding their voices to the traditions that have defined Colgate for generations. Among the leaders, artists, scientists, and storytellers are a future physician from Brooklyn, a theater enthusiast from Arizona, and an Eagle Scout from California who has already inspired her community.
Coming to Colgate from Success Academy in New York City, Chelsea Jean ’29 is already a standout in both science and the arts. Her community in Brooklyn instilled in her the importance of working together and building strong bonds, both values she is eager to bring to Hamilton.
Although STEM-driven, Chelsea balances her love of science with creative passions like painting, crocheting, and photography. She hopes to major in biochemistry to prepare for a career in medicine.
I knew the remote location of Colgate would forge stronger bonds between students, as shown through the alumni network. So I’m excited to join a close-knit community at Colgate.
Chelsea Jean ’29 Brooklyn, N.Y.
Chelsea also joins Colgate as an Alumni Memorial Scholar, eager to deepen her academic foundation while pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor.
Clara Jean Kelly ’29 represents Clinton High School — just down the road from campus — where she excelled both athletically and musically. A figure skater and cellist, she also interned at the mayor’s office and City Hall in nearby Utica, contributing to community service projects that strengthened her leadership skills.
At Colgate, Clara plans to study international relations to prepare for a future in business while continuing to pursue her passions for music and service.
What excites me the most about choosing Colgate is the opportunity that I believe Colgate can provide for me in personal and academic growth. I look forward to meeting new people and experiencing new things.
Clara Jean Kelly ’29 Central N.Y.
She also hopes to study abroad and join new clubs.
From the vibrant, multicultural community of Irvine, Calif., Parmida Sadat Mirkarimi ’29 brings with her an openness to diverse perspectives and a drive to combine science with creativity.
An Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS) Scholar, Parmida plans to double major in biochemistry and humanities. She also has entrepreneurial ambitions and a love for music.
Colgate has a strong sense of community. Everyone here truly wants you to thrive, and the alumni are so incredibly kind and generous that I could immediately picture myself growing both academically and personally with that support.
Parmida Sadat Mirkarimi ’29 Irvine, Calif.
She sees storytelling through music, visuals, or even a playlist as a vital way to connect people, a value she looks forward to carrying into her time at Colgate.
For Antonius Robello ’29, the journey to Colgate began with a gap year dedicated to pursuing his passion: theater. After being admitted in 2024, he deferred his enrollment to direct, act, dance, and even coach others in performance.
I’m hoping to make friends and learn how to direct in a creative way to get people to think more.
Antonius Robello ’29 Tucson, Ariz.
Now an OUS scholar, Antonius plans to double major in psychology and theater.
The tight-knit Latinx community and food culture of his hometown of Tucson remain central to his identity, and he looks forward to bringing that perspective to Colgate’s stage and beyond.
Charlotte Sandford ’29 has always embraced challenges with determination and optimism. An Eagle Scout, she credits outdoor adventures with teaching her resilience, teamwork, and the joy of finding strength in unexpected moments.
Living with cerebral palsy, Charlotte has consistently pushed past barriers, shaping her into a leader and role model in her community. At Colgate, she looks forward to exploring courses in Asian studies, history, language, and psychology while building meaningful relationships with classmates and professors.
My experiences in scouts challenged me to push my physical limits and taught me how to find joy in the unexpected.
Charlotte Sandford ’29 Berkeley, Calif.
She was drawn to Colgate by the warmth of the students she met during her visit and by the University’s wide-ranging academic offerings, which she sees as opportunities to both grow and contribute.
Hailing from the Bay Area, Natalia Martell ’29 values the diversity of her community and brings that same openness to Colgate. As one of the first young women to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout — alongside a classmate from her high school — she has a strong record of service and leadership.
At Colgate, she plans to explore film and media studies, sociology, and economics, driven by her interest in how media shapes the world.
I chose Colgate because I love the balance between a rigorous academic curriculum and the wide variety of extracurricular opportunities. I hope to grow both as a student and as a person, while preparing to make a meaningful impact beyond campus.
Natalia Martell ’29 Orinda, Calif.