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Student Snapshot: Stella Gladson ’27

For Stella Gladson ’27 (religion, political science), the Mock Trial courtroom is both a classroom and a community. As a student leader and award winner, she’s honed skills in advocacy, communication and collaboration, and as an intern with an advocacy group, she discovered why “places like Dickinson—where empathy and education are prioritized—are so important.”

Hometown:

New Oxford, Pa.

High School:

New Oxford High School.

Majors: 

Political science and religion.

Why I chose Dickinson:

My father, Chip Gladson ’90, went to Dickinson, so I have been visiting the campus since I was young. When it was time for me to apply, I toured schools all over, but I couldn’t find one that embodied my values as much as Dickinson.

On choosing a major:

I love being a double major in political science and religion because it allows me to make connections between disciplines that I wouldn’t otherwise have made. I’m able to contribute new ideas to discussions and introduce perspectives that someone who’s solely a religion or political science major might not be aware of.

Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:

Serving on the executive board of our Mock Trial team. I’ve learned lessons that apply inside and outside the courtroom, and I’ve built so many positive relationships with my incredible team members and coaches. I’m honored to be able to give back to this club—from introducing freshmen to Dickinson through our Pre-Orientation program to making sure members have an enjoyable tournament season.

About my internship:

I interned with Little Lobbyists, an advocacy group for medically complex kids, over the summer. My brother has a rare disease, so it was incredible to see that my family and I were not alone in fighting for kids to have access to the medical care and society-wide accessibility they deserve. I also learned the value of education campaigns in bringing about change, reaffirming why places like Dickinson—where empathy and education are prioritized—are so important.

Proudest accomplishment:

Winning an Outstanding Attorney Award at a mock trial tournament with only two weeks to prepare the case.

If I could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, it would be …

… Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I admire her intellect, her empathy and her lifelong commitment to justice and equality.

Something unexpected about my Dickinson experience:

At Dickinson, you never know where one conversation will take you. I spoke to President Jones at an event for newly accepted students during the summer before my freshman year, and after hearing that I wanted to study law, he suggested that I join our Mock Trial team. Two years later, I’m on our executive board and surrounded by the best group of people I could ask for.

Most important thing I’ve learned so far:

College is all about relationships—with your peers, the faculty who teach you, the housekeepers who say “hi” to you every morning, and the subjects you devote so much time and energy to.

Clubs and organizations:

Mock Trial (treasurer) and Swing Dance Club (secretary).

Honors/scholarships/awards:

Dean’s List and Alpha Lambda Delta, and I’m ranked first in my class.

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Published November 11, 2025