Haley Gittleman

Majors: chemistry; biochemistry

Hi, I’m Haley from New Jersey (no comments, please). I am a product of the ‘burbs and the bright lights of nearby New York City, so my decision to attend a college in the “middle of nowhere” stunned my classmates and simultaneously place me among the fearless. I have a strong interest in the sciences, a passion for the performing arts, and I love getting to know all kinds of people. Oberlin seemed the perfect match. Four years and many heart-t-hearts later, I know that I couldn’t have had a happier or more rewarding college experience anywhere. Do I miss the theater, the movies, the opera, the symphony? Are you kidding? They’re all right here on campus, and the price is right.

As a chemistry/biochemistry double major, I have worked as a teaching assistant (often a position reserved for graduate students in other schools) and have participated in research projects during Winter Term at Oberlin and at various universities during the summer. Feel free to ask me about the honors program and thesis requirement too.

When not in a lab coat and goggles, one can often find me at the Conservatory practicing harp, or at a VIBE (tap team) or OSwing (swing dance) board meeting, perhaps teaching an ExCo class, attending a concert, or destroying the competition in a game of Settlers of Catan. If you’re addicted to this board game, I am throwing down the gauntlet!

I look forward to meeting you, answering your questions as best I can, and helping you get the most out of your years at Oberlin.

Short List of Favorites

Local Cuisine: Agave Burrito Bar, because it’s a great place to meet up with friends, and it has late-night hours. It’s also vegan-friendly and uses organic, local ingredients.

Writer: At the moment, I’m into Tess Gerritsen’s novels. Warning: those who are of the faint of heart should not read her thrillers before going to bed.

Under-advertised Resource at Oberlin: The Oberlin Observatory, located atop Peters Hall on Professor Street. Check the times for public viewings and go on a starry night. Also, check out the Ginko Gallery & Studio downtown on Main Street. For some reason, their back room is always full of fluffy fuzzy little kittens. I love going there to de-stress. I must also mention the free printing quota, which allows each student 300 pages ($21 worth) of free printing per semester.

Favorite First-year Courses

MATH 134: Calculus II. If you love numbers, you’ll really enjoy Professor Young’s class. He is a passionate and extraordinary instructor.

Swing ExCo: If swing dancing were a major, I would add it as a third. I was a newcomer to this jazzy, energetic style of dance when I first arrived. Now I’m hooked for life. I highly recommend adding a dance class to your schedule. It’s a fun way to meet people outside of your major, and will also help you to stay in shape and keep the pounds off.