“The magic thing about home is it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” — Wendy Wunder

I’ve had the privilege of calling Swarthmore “home” for five years. I moved here in September of 2018. Nervous about starting new, and excited for the change that was to come.

Within a day my nerves seemed to disappear. Perhaps this was due to my peers who were welcoming and kind. Or maybe it was the strangers I met in passing. They offered me their smiles without expecting anything in return. Eventually I began to inherently smile and wave at people as I passed them by, no matter where I was. I found myself amazed at the fact that everyone acted as if they knew me forever, even though I’d just moved into town. People put time into learning about my interests, background, passions. This tight-knit community reminded me that it’s important to give attention and kindness to those who surround you.

The next four years I experienced a lot of firsts. First homecoming. First job. First global pandemic. In a way, it felt as if Swarthmore held my hand throughout my highschool years. The town allowed me to exist as a teenager in a way that many places I’ve called home before, couldn't. I opened my first bank account at the PNC Bank, and walked to cash my checks. I ran a small jewelry business out of my home, shipping from the local post office.

While these accessibilities may seem standard to most, I felt lucky to be so comfortable and free in my town.

As I morphed into the person I am today, Swarthmore embraced me.

When I tried out new styles no one's eye’s boggled. When I laughed too loud with my friends no one shushed me. Despite the affluence of the community,

Swarthmoreans don’t seem to align with the stereotypical elitist attitude of most suburban predominantly-white boroughs. Swarthmore allowed space for me to express myself in any way I chose. I live sheltered from prejudice, violence, and hate. I live surrounded by love, peace, and nature.

I’ve found that Swarthmore has left an impression on me that I'll cherish forever. Swarthmore has encouraged me to take my time. When I ask people “How are you?” I wait for an answer. I am more eager now than ever to engage in thoughtful conversation. I am more eager and willing to learn. This principle is one I fear we take for granted. But in Swarthmore, taking your time is subconsciously taught.There’s always time to walk around town. There’s time to appreciate the beauty of the unique houses. And to smell the flowers. And most importantly there’s enough time to live. Swarthmore is so very patient.

Now as I prepare to leave Swarthmore I am saddened but excited for what the future has in store. While Swarthmore has acted as a safe haven for me, I am confident that she has my back wherever I end up. The college I have chosen to attend is in Carlisle, Pennsylvania; A small town similar to Swarthmore. It’s surrounded by trees, about 30 minutes away from a major city, and loaded with charming small businesses. My five years in Swarthmore has amounted to a lifetime’s worth of memories. I can only hope to make half as many memories in Carlisle. But I know Carlisle couldn’t beat Swarthmore’s warmth. I already can't wait to come back home.