Ronald Holbrook
There is so much history at Norwich and to be following in the footsteps of so many amazing people really makes you stop and think about what you’re really a part of.
~ Ronald Holbrook
Place of employment, job title and brief description of duties
Diamphwe Health Center, Malawi, Africa, U.S. Peace Corps Community Health Volunteer
I work at small rural health center that serves around 12,000 people in 102 villages. My job is primarily to access health needs and the local level and to facilitate ways in which to improve the health status of the local community members through educational programs such as HIV/AIDS educations, nutrition and water sanitation.
Can you recall what made you choose Norwich for your higher education?
I originally chose Norwich because of the Corps of Cadets. I was also drawn to the rich history of the school, the small intimate campus and the long-standing tradition of being an outstanding academic institution.
Did you visit Norwich before matriculating? Can you remember what your first impression of the school was? If you did not visit the campus, can you remember what your arrival experience was like?
I visited the campus several times before starting my freshman year and I remember thinking that this was definitely the place I wanted to be. The staff and students I met all seemed very welcoming. I felt right at home and knew I had found the perfect fit.
If you could choose one word to describe Norwich and your time spent here, what would it be and why?
I would have to say “inspiring.” There is so much history at Norwich and to be following in the footsteps of so many amazing people really makes you stop and think about what you’re really a part of.
Norwich is an amazing school and I look back fondly at my time there. Go to the school and experience it, talk to the students and professors, look around the campus.
~ Ronald Holbrook
How has your Norwich education benefited you in your personal life? Professionally?
Because of my Norwich education I’m now in a position I never thought I would ever be in. Without my degree I would have been able to be here in Africa with the Peace Corps and my time here has forever changed my life. I’ve been truly humbled by this experience and have seen things that are so incredibly amazing but also things that chill you. It has also put me in a position to further my education after my service in the Peace Corps is completed.
What would you say to a prospective student contemplating attending Norwich for their higher education?
Norwich is an amazing school and I look back fondly at my time there. Go to the school and experience it, talk to the students and professors, look around the campus. Norwich isn’t like other colleges, so if you’re looking for a typical college experience Norwich may not be the right place. But if you’re looking for a place rich in history and tradition with an excellent reputation, it might be the place for you.
Is there any one memory from your time at Norwich that you feel characterizes the school and its values?
I always remember the pride that people had in their school and I think that speaks a lot about the school itself. The students and staff were happy to be there and it showed. I’ve been to a few others colleges where this doesn’t happen.
As an alumnus, can you describe a favorite tradition that occurred at Norwich in your time that continues on campus today?
I really enjoyed Junior Ring weekend.
When was the last time you visited Norwich? What was the biggest change you noticed on campus?
I think its been almost a year and a half since I’ve been back and I’m sure the biggest change is the remodeling of Harmon Hall. I think it’s going to be interesting to see the change when I return from Africa, I’m sure much more has changed since the last time I was there.
