Mountain Neighborhood
The Mountain neighborhood has the greatest range in architectural design and house size. Most of the houses are close to downtown. Capen is a beautiful residence with an equally stunning flower garden. Gillett and Northrop house first-year students through seniors and both are home to vegetarian/vegan dining halls. Talbot and Lamont are larger residences, and Lamont has a gazebo-style dining hall. Cutter and Ziskind Houses, built in 1957 in the International style, were extensively renovated a few years ago. Haven-Wesley features special movie nights.
Rachel Kristoff
Mountain Neighborhood Area Director
- Email: rkristoff@smith.edu
- 413-585-2237
- Email to schedule an appointment.
I grew up in Granville, NY, roughly 2 hours north of here. Most recently, I was at the University at Albany as a Resident Director where I was in charge of programming for my quad. Before that I was at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts as a Residence Director. I graduated from Hartwick College with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Psychology and from Southern New Hampshire University with a Master’s in Higher Education Administration. I’ve always enjoyed the programming and volunteering aspects of college and have many fond memories of both.
Professional Interests
I am passionate about helping students find what they are passionate about and finding meaningful careers that match those passions. I understand the importance that grades don’t define you and that you can be an amazing and successful person and not have the best grades. There are so many pathways to discover interests and motivations and it’s your job in college to discover yourself and what you believe in. Join a club or take a random class to see what you enjoy in life. As a professional staff member, I look to help support and guide students to find their independence while encouraging them to try new things and go on new adventures. There is so much in the world to discover, you just need to take that first step.
Personal Interests
When I am not at work I love to go to the beach and in general be in sun shining weather. I love to travel and discover how food connects everyone around the world and I enjoy just adventuring around new places. I love to bake and spend time with my family and friends. I’m an avid coffee drinker and enjoy finding local restaurants and shops to support. I take too many pictures but I like to think that it’s a good way to remember the past and fun times that have been had.
Favorite Place on Campus
I love the pond and cannot wait to see the wildlife once the weather is nice.