How controversial is milk shaming, really?

Name, School, Major, Hometown: Ariella Goldman, GS/JTS, Evolutionary Biology of the Human Species/Jewish Texts and Interpretations/Pre-Med, White Plains

Claim to fame: Bringing the dance party with me wherever I go.

Where are you going? Into a hole to study for the MCAT.

What are 3 things you learned at Columbia and would like to share with the Class of 2026?

1. Not to valorize stress! It’s really easy to get caught up in the idea that it’s impressive to have an overwhelming number of commitments. There are so many amazing things to do and learn in this world, but you won’t actually get to be present in your own life if you’re always spread so thin.

2. To notice what I truly enjoy. I’ve learned to start paying attention to what I’m doing when I feel happy and leaning into those experiences. There are a lot of things out there that are “supposed” to be fun that don’t actually bring me joy (and vice versa). Over the past few years, I have started to channel my energy into activities and relationships that I genuinely enjoy.

3. Walking in Riverside Park during golden hour in peak autumn leaf season is a transcendent experience. Do it as often as you can.

“Back in my day…” You could use dining dollars at any dining hall.

Favorite Columbia controversy? Milk shaming.

What was your favorite class at Columbia? Ooh… Salsa, Soca & Reggae with Prof. Washburne was definitely my favorite, but it’s closely followed by my independent study in postcranial anatomy with Prof. Shapiro and the Evolution of Human Growth and Development with Prof. Manser.

Would you rather give up oral sex or cheese? I think you already know the answer…

Whom would you like to thank? I would like to thank all of my friends for sticking it out with me through my terrible stress-induced procrastination and inability to show up to most events. I also want to give a shout out to The Bayit for providing me with food, a loving community, and a true home for this past year and a half. Lastly, I want to express my most sincere gratitude to my family (especially my sister) for continually being in my corner and pushing me towards the finish line.

One thing to do before graduating: Go to the pool in Dodge. Not to swim, just to confirm its existence.

Any regrets? Yes. You can probably guess from the advice.

Portrait via Ariella