“Different age, same feeling” is how I would describe Swarthmore. I’ve lived in Swarthmore my whole life, watching my town evolve just as I have. I see the leaves turn brown and crisp in the winter, and the flowers delicately unfold in the spring as I walk through the paths. I see new buildings rise, with familiar places changing just as I have transformed. My transformation is gradual, with Swarthmore at the center of my journey. I’ve learned to become a better communicator by experiencing the diversity of this community. Yet, like the trees that stand taller with each passing year, I remain connected to the roots of who I am.

Swarthmore is the quilt that keeps me warm and is stitched together by my memories. It’s not looking back at old photographs that brings back my fondest memories but the sounds, scents, and sights surrounding me. Nostalgia rushed through my body as I heard the rumbling of the train passing by, instinctively making me quickly duck my head from a ritual I did as a kid. I skipped through the chalk-drawn hopscotch board on the sidewalk, one foot at a time, as I saw the colorful boxes with numbers inside. It’s in these little rituals, these subtle moments, that Swarthmore continues to feel like home. These small things are woven into me, grounding me in a place that shaped me into who I am. It’s the smaller moments that form my biggest memories. Whenever I go to the dry cleaner to get my dress tailored, I remember my last dance, wearing a dress that fit perfectly on me. This small town is dear to me. What makes Swarthmore feel special is the community. As I walk to grab a scoop of ice cream, I find myself engaged with friendly greetings, warm smiles, and pleasant conversations.

One store, in particular, that I feel encapsulates the town of Swarthmore is a newer addition, “Heart and Soul’d,” a small thrift shop that sells donated items from community members, with the profits going towards foster care organizations. The shop is a time capsule of Swarthmore. I walk in, not knowing what I’m getting, and walk out with a handful of trinkets and new memories. I visit the shop weekly to get to know everyone who works there and learn about the stories behind each item people donate. The shop reflects the heart of Swarthmore—its kindness, history, and people. Visiting it each week has inspired me to pursue my own nonprofit one day, continuing the spirit of generosity that defines my town.

Swarthmore granted me many firsts. From my first step to my first job as a concession stand worker at the Swarthmore Swim Club, it has been holding my hand the entire way, ensuring each step I take is meaningful. Each step, however, comes with a fair amount of trips. My first struggle was questioning my place in my community. Being in such a great place made me question my role and if I even had one, but I quickly learned that as a child, I did. Just like everyone had a role in my life, I had a role in others, helping me realize my potential.

As I travel across the country to embark on a new chapter, spending the next four years at college, I am sad to leave my town behind but excited to see how I will thrive elsewhere. I’m excited to contribute to a new community all of the great things I’ve learned here. Because of Swarthmore, I am independent and compassionate.