I am forever proud to call Swarthmore my hometown. We moved here when I was two years old, and from the beginning my parents knew that this place was not just a home for their family, but also an environment that encourages learning, bonding within the community, and provides opportunities to be inspired by others. From playing soccer in the local recreation league, to spring and summer block parties, to my own family’s tradition of doing an Easter egg hunt for the neighborhood for over ten years, I have always felt a sense of energy, warmth, and friendliness from everyone I have had the privilege to meet here.

I do not consider myself to be an extremely extroverted person, but I never struggled to make friends here. Everyone has always been so kind, welcoming, and outgoing that I realized that being home did not just mean being inside your house, but it also meant that I was in a place that felt comfortable, safe, and relaxing. Swarthmore was, is, and always will be home to me. That idea encouraged me to explore more within this town.

My first time hanging out with friends on my own was in Swarthmore, getting a slice of pizza at Renatos or a smoothie at Dunkin Donuts. I learned how to ride a bike with my dad at the track at CADES. I discovered that I love playing piano and guitar after years of taking lessons with Ann Bobes and Greg Davis, and I continue to play these instruments everyday. My first job was working as a lifeguard at the Swarthmore Swim Club. My independence comes from having this friendly and fascinating environment at my disposal, and it is something that I am grateful for every day.

As I have grown older, the lessons that Swarthmore has taught me have become a gift that keeps on giving. One of those gifts is patience, which is truly a virtue in this place. I have learned from others that I should slow down sometimes and enjoy the small moments. We only have one chance to enjoy the lives we are given. I am forever appreciative of the fact that Swarthmore taught me to remember to take a deep breath and not lose the forest for the sight of the trees.

There are many more things that I could say about my life in Swarthmore, and when I reflect on my experience with the community and people, I think about a quote from American author and educator, Stephen R. Covey, “Most people don’t listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.” In all my time in Swarthmore, and through all of my memories, I can confidently say that Swarthmore is a place where the people really do listen to understand.

Now that I am 18 years old, I am nearing the end of the college selection process. It is bittersweet having to come to terms with leaving Swarthmore, and everything I know, behind. I have friends who are staying as close as West Chester University, and friends who are moving all the way out to California for school. My decision could take me as far away as Texas. It can be scary, thinking about moving to a new place, having to adapt to a new environment, and meeting new people. But I know that my time in Swarthmore has prepared me for this.

Throughout my life of being a resident of Swarthmore, I have developed so many positive relationships. These people have helped me become a humble, passionate, and caring individual, and somebody who is truly ready to leave their mark on society and make a difference in the world. I will forever cherish my experiences within the Swarthmore community, and the relationships that I had the privilege of developing with Swarthmore residents will always keep me tied to the place that has turned me into the person I am today.