It’s a feeling.
It’s a palpable energy that only comes when diverse minds full of fresh ideas and unique points of view are given the freedom to explore their curiosity and the resources to make the most of their academic journey. The result is spontaneous intellectual combustion that always meets the moment, makes the world a better place, and strengthens our students’ ability to excel.
So, instead of telling our story in a traditional way, we’re trying something new — on every page. Swarthmore is a place where students from vastly different backgrounds lift each other up to learn in exciting, new ways. We figured this book should do the same to best reflect the variety and power of the voices here on campus. So while one page might look like a novel, lab report, comic strip, or poem, the next will look and feel completely different.
Curious yet? Or perhaps you’ve already turned the page … you’re practically a Swattie already.
Community-builders, improvisers, foodies, bookworms, scholars, entrepreneurs, gamers, experts, wanderers, wonderers, lab rats, DJs, yogis, rock climbers, a cappella singers, ramen- slurpers, student-athletes, birders, app devs, martial artists, STEM lovers, writers, marathoners, film geeks, pickleballers, Honors students, method actors, vegans, poets, world travelers, history buffs, Broadway enthusiasts, and one giant fuzzy red Phoenix known as Phineas.
Who knows where your journey will take you?
Prologue: Who We Are | Photo Essay
Chapter 1: Academics | Majors, Minors & Honors Program
Starting your junior year, you can choose to major and minor, through our Honors Program or without it, in the following areas:
Majors | Minors | Honors Program
- Ancient History
- Anthropology*
- Arabic
- Architectural Studies
- Art*
- Art History
- Asian American Studies
- Asian Studies
- Astronomy
- Astrophysics
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Black Studies
- Chemical Physics
- Chemistry
- Chinese
- Chinese Studies
- Classics
- Cognitive Science
- Comparative Literature*
- Computer Science
- Dance
- Economics*
- Educational Studies
- Engineering
- English Literature
- Environmental Studies
- Film & Media Studies
- French & Francophone Studies
- Gender & Sexuality Studies
- German Studies
- Global Studies
- Greek
- History
- Interdisciplinary Programs
- Interpretation Theory
- Islamic Studies
- Japanese
- Japanese Language, Literature, and Culture
- Latin
- Latin American & Latino Studies
- Linguistics
- Mathematics
- Medical Anthropology
- Medieval Studies
- Modern Languages & Literatures
- Music
- Neuroscience
- Peace & Conflict Studies
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science*
- Psychology
- Religion
- Russian
- Sociology*
- Spanish
- Statistics
- Theater
- Design Your Own Major
HONORS PROGRAM
Re-establish what’s possible — for yourself and an entire industry.
Our Honors Program isn’t “better” than our regular curriculum; it’s simply another route to express your intellectual curiosity with the guidance of our expert, world-class faculty.
One distinct trait of our Honors Program is that you’ll have the opportunity to share and discuss your work with outside experts (from the Federal Reserve, Harvard University, the Wilma Theater, and beyond) during your final exams. This not only gives you the chance to meet one-on-one with some of the people who are living what you’re learning, but the opportunity to share your ideas with them. Exploring nontraditional undergraduate learning approaches (like this one) has become a tradition of its own at Swarthmore.
Chapter 1: Academics | The Sophomore Plan of Study
Prof. Widerange’s Lecture Notes:
No class will be scary or impossible. Instead, you’ll have access to resources that help you feel prepared. No professor will cackle maniacally after doling out an exam. Instead, they’ll hold small tutoring sessions. And no other Swatties are waiting to gloat over a grade they’ve received. Rather, they’ll help you edit your paper before turning it in. Our classes are designed to be challenging to match the energy of curious minds like yours — and help them grow.
At Swarthmore, you can take courses in just about everything you can imagine, from the more traditional to the hyper-niche. Perhaps, one semester you’ll be compelled to explore the fundamentals of computer engineering or the cultural impact of fandoms, and the next semester, the economic value of creativity.
ENGINEERING: We have an accredited engineering program — a rare offering for a liberal arts college (and one that gives you a competitive edge). Studying engineering at Swarthmore will equip you with a holistic view of the subject. One that teaches you leadership, the ethical impacts of your work, and how to blend humanities into your field of study, helping you stand out when you enter the workforce.
Because of our liberal arts founding, the “right” course often looks like trying many courses from across disciplines. The breadth and depth of a Swarthmore education will equip you with the knowledge to assess the world’s greatest problems through a variety of nuanced lenses.
Declaring Your Major at Swarthmore
HYPOTHESIS: Waiting until sophomore year to declare a major alleviates some of the pressure students feel to immediately know what they want to study. Having time to explore a plethora of potential interests makes Swatties more likely to stick with and feel genuinely fulfilled by the major(s) they ultimately declare.
EVIDENCE: Anywhere from 20-50% of students enter college as an undecided major. About 80% of students in college change their major at least once (National Center for Education Statistics).
N0TES:
- Audience: college students
- Idea: could delaying declaring your major relieve symptoms of “falling behind”?
- About half of students double major or pursue Honors at Swarthmore (including our engineers)!
Introducing: The sophomore plan of study
We know that Swatties are multifaceted, multitalented people who often have more interests than they can count on both hands. This is exactly why our students spend their first year exploring those interests — and uncovering new ones they never anticipated they’d adore (during their pass/fail semester and beyond, but more on that on page 11). By their sophomore year, Swatties have had the time to find at least one or two fields of study that they’ll excitedly chat about with anyone willing to listen.
Cue our academic and department advisors, deans, and Student Affairs staff. They’re here to guide you through the process of mapping out your major, identifying possible career paths, and answering any other questions you may have along the way. The sophomore plan of study is designed to help you graduate on time. While waiting until sophomore year to declare a major isn’t typical and would often put you at risk of delaying your graduation from other institutions, it’s personalized, strategic, intentional, and, like most things we do, distinctly Swarthmorean.
Chapter 1: Academics | Student-Faculty Research & Pass/Fail
To create a better world, you first need to explore it.
At Swarthmore, research is literally alive and well.
Take any class — including the one you know nothing about.
This essentially means that you’ll be graded, but the grades you receive won’t be reflected on your transcript — you either get credit or you don’t. You’ll have a chance to explore subjects like peace and conflict studies, marine biology, Shakespeare and race, or the theory of computation without the pressure of having to worry about letter grades.
Chapter 1: Academics | Liberal Arts at Swarthmore
What Does “Liberal Arts” Mean At Swarthmore?
Whether it’s nonprofits or biotech, medicine or philosophy, 1864 or today, Swatties have always been well prepared for life after college.
Chapter 1: Academics | Engaged Scholarship
The Lang Center for Civic & Social Responsibility
During your time here, you’ll have countless opportunities to learn and work alongside community members locally and globally.
President’s Sustainability Research Fellowship (PSRF)
- Redesigning our waste management system
- Developing a three-year vision for Crum Woods Stewardship
- Launching behavioral change strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Swarthmore’s Community Partners
- Asian Arts Initiative (arts center focused on social change)
- Chester Residents Concerned for Quality Living (grassroots environmental justice)
- Delaware County United for Sensible Gun Policy (grassroots gun reform)
- The Eviction Lab (data tracking around issues of housing costs and evictions)
- Human Rights Watch (global activism and advocacy focused on policy change)
- Mazzoni Center (comprehensive LGBTQ+ health and wellness)
- Nationalities Service Center (immigrant and refugee services)
- Oxford Map the System (systems analysis and mapping for social impact)
- Puentes de Salud (health and wellness for Philadelphia’s Latinx community)
- Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting (journalism focused on underrepresented global issues)
Chapter 1: Academics | Study Abroad
TITLE: ADVENTURE ABROAD
I’m so glad I decided to come here.
TAYLOR
So am I, Jamie.
I would have regretted it forever if I didn’t study abroad.
TAYLOR
So would I, Jamie.
I’m sorry, Taylor. I’ve fallen in love with this city. With my studies. I’m in love with who I am here, how much I’ve grown. I’m in love with who I can be once I get back to Swarthmore.
TAYLOR
But you’re not in love with me.
JAMIE
No, Taylor. I’m sorry. I only think of you as a friend — and the best Schnitzel connoisseur on this side of the Vltava River…
I know, Jamie. And I understand. You’re lucky to go to Swarthmore, a college that lets engineering, Honors, and double majors study abroad.
(Crying) Is that all you have to say?
TAYLOR
No. Of course not. (A beat.) Studying abroad is accessible and affordable for all Swarthmore students.
JAMIE
You’re amazing, Taylor.
TAYLOR
When you study abroad on an approved Global Engagement Program, you’re charged regular Swarthmore tuition, housing, and food —
JAMIE
(Sniffling) And you get to keep all your Swarthmore financial aid. My program’s tuition, housing, and food were all covered for the duration of my stay.
I was getting there. This is exactly what I love about you, Jamie. We’re so in sync we practically finish each other’s —.
JAMIE
Sentences. I’ve known it from the moment I arrived here.
TAYLOR
That makes perfect sense, Jamie. Not to mention, Global Engagement pays for a round-trip flight, from Philadelphia International Airport to your host city.
JAMIE
How could I forget? Swarthmore even enrolled us in CISI insurance at no additional charge; and our visa fees were also covered.
Taylor?
TAYLOR
Yes?
JAMIE
Tell me one last thing.
TAYLOR
Swarthmore offers additional study abroad scholarships.
Fade to black.
Chapter 1: Academics | Outcomes
ALUMNI CONNECTIONS AND MENTORSHIP
Swatties Recognize Swatties.
OUR CAREER SERVICES
What do you think about nonstop?
GRADUATE SCHOOLS MOST ATTENDED BY SWARTHMORE’S CLASS OF 2023:
Columbia University
Harvard University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Sidney Kimmel Medical College
Stanford University
University of California‚ Berkeley
University of Pennsylvania
University of Washington
Villanova University
INSTITUTIONS EMPLOYING OUR GRADUATES:
BBC World Service
Boston Consulting Group
CBS News
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Civil Rights Corps
Detroit Tigers
Field Museum of Natural History
Hermés
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Microsoft
Modern Language Association
NIH
National Public Radio
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Space Telescope Science Institute
U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Dept. of State
Venmo
The Wall Street Journal
University of Pennsylvania
Walnut Street Theater
Yale University
SWARTHMORE’S CLASS OF 2023 GRADUATES ENTERED THESE FIELDS:
Engineering (22%)
Finance (15%)
Consulting (9%)
Legal & Administration (9%)
Education & Teaching (7%)
Data & Analytics (4%)
Writing & Communications (4%)
GRADUATE SCHOOLS MOST ATTENDED BY SWARTHMORE’S CLASS OF 2023:
Columbia University
Harvard University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Sidney Kimmel Medical College
University of California‚ Berkeley
University of Pennsylvania
University of Washington
Villanova University
INSTITUTIONS EMPLOYING OUR GRADUATES:
BBC World Service
Boston Consulting Group
CBS News
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Civil Rights Corps
Detroit Tigers
Field Museum of Natural History
Hermés
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Microsoft
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
NIH
National Public Radio
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Space Telescope Science Institute
U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Dept. of State
Venmo
The Wall Street Journal
University of Pennsylvania
Walnut Street Theater
Yale University
SWARTHMORE’S CLASS OF 2023 GRADUATES ENTERED THESE FIELDS:
Engineering (22%)
Finance (15%)
Consulting (9%)
Education & Teaching (7%)
Data & Analytics (4%)
Writing & Communications (4%)
Chapter 2: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion | By the Numbers
we want you to feel it.
students by race/ethnicity:
Asian: 18%
Black or African American: 9%
Hispanic: 15%
Two+ races: 11%
Unreported: 3%
U.S. non-resident/
Undocumented: 14%
White: 30%
Geographic distribution of students by home address:
Midwest: 7%
Mountain States: 2%
New England: 7%
Southeast: 12%
West Coast: 15%
International: 15%
Countries represented: 59
our admitted class of 2028 included:
Community-based organization participants: 33%
Public or charter school students: 68%
Rural public school attendees: 4%
Chapter 2: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion | Resources & Affinity Groups
If that’s your kind of thing, you’re going to love it here.
AFFINITY GROUPS
ADI (Athletics for Diversity and Inclusion)
BLACK (Supporting Black men)
COLORS (LGBTQ+ Students of Color)
ENLACE (a space for Latinx-identifying students)
i20 (International Student Club)
Kehilah (Jewish Student Group)
Muslim Student Association
SASS (Swarthmore African-American Student Society)
Swarthmore Indigenous Student Association
SPAA (Swarthmore Pan-Asian Association)
SQU (Swarthmore Queer Union)
And many, many more
RESOURCES
First-Gen/Low-Income Program
Gender & Sexuality Center
Inclusive Excellence Fellows Initiative
Intercultural Center
Interfaith Center
International Student Center (including undocumented student support services)
Office of Inclusive Excellence
SQUAD (Swarthmore Queer Advocate Development)
Student Disability Services
Swarthcore
We take intentional steps to build community by hosting events like guided walks through the Crum Woods, first-year seminars to ease into college life, First Collection at the amphitheater, and everything in between. Because if you feel welcome, seen, and heard, you’re more open to take intellectual risks, indulge in your curiosity, and find out what things you’re truly passionate about — which is ultimately what these next four years are all about.
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Residence Halls
Each of our 18 residence halls has its own feel: some are sleek and modern, others historic yet homey. Every hall is unique with its own set of perks and quirks that are conducive to varying levels of community and connection — whatever is most comfortable for you.
Worried about finding a roommate?
Example questions from our roommate survey:
Loudly
Softly
With earbuds in
Indifferent
Environmental
Laid back
Musical
Need time alone
Outgoing
Partier
Queer-friendly
Religious
Sci-fi/Fantasy fan
Shy
Studious
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Campus Map: Past & Present
What surrounds Swarthmore?
You can get to Philadelphia by:
- An approximately 30-minute regional rail ride
- An approximately 1-hour bike ride (thanks to the Bicyclists’ Baltimore Pike route)
You can get to NYC by:
- A 2-hour drive
- A 1.5-hour Amtrak train ride
You can get to D.C. by:
- A 2.5-hour drive
- A 2-hour Amtrak train ride
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Everyday Affordability & The Ville
Here are a few other things that are built into the cost of tuition, so you don’t have to worry about paying for them:
LAB FEES
CAMPUS EVENTS
SNACKS AND TREATS
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PASS
THE VILLE:
Swarthmore is a quaint, residential borough tucked just outside of the neighborhood of Media, Pa. It’s a hidden gem with lots of local activities and spots waiting to be uncovered.
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Things to Do at Swarthmore
BUCKET LIST
BY THE END OF WEEK 3:
- Kick off your first year with First Collection
- Attend a professor’s office hours and ask away
- Have a picnic on Parrish Beach
- Stop and smell the roses
- Take a selfie with Phineas on Garnet Day
- Check out The Ville
- Take a course outside your major; we dare you
- Give belly rubs to all the dogs on campus
BY THE END OF MONTH 4:
- Whisper at the Whispering Bench
- Dance your heart out at Olde Club
- Catch an a cappella concert at the Bell Tower
- Scream, primally, at the end of the semester
BY THE END OF YEAR 1:
- Take a tango class
- Get all dressed up for the Winter Formal
- Set sail on the Crum Creek
- Take a class at Haverford or Bryn Mawr College through the Tri-College Consortium or at the University of Pennsylvania via the Quaker Consortium
- Listen to your roommates’ playlists for a day
- Debate which Greek philosopher is best at 3 a.m. on the 3rd floor of McCabe
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Nature on Campus
Speaking of nature, studies show that it has a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Not to mention our buildings — which run the gamut from ultramodern to cozy cottage — often thoughtfully incorporate nature into their design.
Light: Full sun | Soil: Loam
Fun fact: The single largest rosebush is a 130-year-old Lady Banks’ that spans 8,000 square feet!
Fig. 2: Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia Virginiana)
Light: Part sun | Soil: Acidic organic matter
Fun fact: The Sweetbay Magnolia is also known as silver bay, beaver tree, and swamp sassafrass.
Fig. 3: Red Pine (Pinus Resinosa)
Light: Full sun | Soil: Dry soil
Fun fact: Immature male pinus resinosa cones have a dark purple color and grow up to 2.5 inches long.
Fig. 4: Northern Red Oak (Quercus Rubra)
Light: Full sun | Soil: Average soils
Fun fact: A mature specimen will reach 50-70 feet tall and wide.
Speaking of nature, studies show that it has a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Not to mention our buildings — which run the gamut from ultramodern to cozy cottage — often thoughtfully incorporate nature into their design.
Light: Full sun | Soil: Loam
Fun fact: The single largest rosebush is a 130-year-old Lady Banks’ that spans 8,000 square feet!
Light: Part sun | Soil: Acidic organic matter
Fun fact: The Sweetbay Magnolia is also known as silver bay, beaver tree, and swamp sassafrass.
Light: Full sun | Soil: Dry soil
Fun fact: Immature male pinus resinosa cones have a dark purple color and grow up to 2.5 inches long.
Light: Full sun | Soil: Average soils
Fun fact: A mature specimen will reach 50-70 feet tall and wide.
Chapter 3: Campus Life | A Day in the Life
A DAY IN THE LIFE:Inspired by the daily routines of real Swarthmore students
01
Image
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Philadelphia
so many things to tell you
A Trip to Philadelphia
A touring Broadway show runs for 2.5 hours, a trip to the art museum takes 3.5 hours, a sit-down meal takes 1.5 hours, a stop at a cafe takes 30 minutes, and people-watching at Rittenhouse Square takes 50 minutes.
If Phineas has to board their train back to Swarthmore by 8 p.m., and can only do three activities out of the five, how many possible combinations of activities are there for them to choose from? (No calculators, if you’re up for a challenge.)
Hint: The formula for combinations is nCr = n! / r! * (n – r)!, where n represents the number of items, and r represents the number of items being chosen at a time.
Off Campus
Where intellect and nature meet.
Off campus there’s even more,
A world beyond our College’s door.
Not far from the shore, waves unfold,
A coastal haven, tales of beach days told.
Spanning sands, the sun’s warm caress,
A tranquil escape from any life stress.
The Poconos are near with whispering pines,
Majestic mountains where adventure intertwines.
Nature’s canvas, a palette of green and blue,
Swarthmore’s haven, a retreat anew.
Philly’s a hop and skip away,
Where you can chant, “Go, Birds!” all day.
In the cheering crowds and the city lights,
Swarthmore students explore all night.
Best of both worlds, a harmonious blend,
Where academic pursuits and leisure extend.
From campus towers to distant shores,
Swarthmore beckons, its spirit soars.
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Dining
Love at First Bite
NEW SQUAWK TIMES BEST SELLER
remember the day we met like it was yesterday. From the second I stepped into the room, I felt a connection. Our eyes locked. Sparks flew. I was at the Spice of Life station at the new Dining Center. It was a rainy spring day and my hair was a mess — of course, you didn’t care. You’d never judge me.
As I made my way across the room, I couldn’t help but notice how great you smelled. After waiting in a short line, we finally came face to face. This was the moment I’d been waiting for. I worked up the courage to utter one sentence before scooping you up onto my plate, “I love sweet potato fries.”
At last, we embraced. But deep down, my mind still wandered. I remembered the satay I had last night at The Crumb Cafe, the steaming biryani I tried at Kohlberg Coffee Bar the week before, and the apple cider from the Science Center Cafe I got this morning.
I may be spoiled for choice, but I will never spoil my dinner. I take another bite of my sweet, sweet potato fries – savoring our last few moments. And soon enough, I bid my plate adieu, grateful for our time together.
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Dining
Love at First Bite
NEW SQUAWK TIMES BEST SELLER
remember the day we met like it was yesterday. From the second I stepped into the room, I felt a connection. Our eyes locked. Sparks flew. I was at the Spice of Life station at the new Dining Center. It was a rainy spring day and my hair was a mess — of course, you didn’t care. You’d never judge me.
As I made my way across the room, I couldn’t help but notice how great you smelled. After waiting in a short line, we finally came face to face. This was the moment I’d been waiting for. I worked up the courage to utter one sentence before scooping you up onto my plate, “I love sweet potato fries.”
At last, we embraced. But deep down, my mind still wandered. I remembered the satay I had last night at The Crumb Cafe, the steaming biryani I tried at Kohlberg Coffee Bar the week before, and the apple cider from the Science Center Cafe I got this morning.
I may be spoiled for choice, but I will never spoil my dinner. I take another bite of my sweet, sweet potato fries – savoring our last few moments. And soon enough, I bid my plate adieu, grateful for our time together.
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Sustainability
The Garnet Quill
Breaking: Swarthmore to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035
To make 20X35 a reality, we are investing in on-site solar, energy-efficient upgrades, and new off-site renewable energy procurement, a standby electricity generation plant, and a geoexchange system, which will provide carbon-free heating and cooling on campus. This new process removes heat from all our buildings during the summer and stores it deep underground, then reuses it to heat the same buildings in the winter.
While it’s underground, this heat will be stored through the use of geoexchange wells, which are deep vertical holes that contain a closed loop pipe system. As liquid travels through the pipes, it will either deposit thermal energy into the earth during the summer months, or it will extract thermal energy during the winter months.
The geoexchange plant is the new powerhouse of our energy system and will be located underneath the new Dining and Community Commons. Buildings on campus are being connected to the plant in several phases. This sustainable infrastructure will replace our very outdated fossil fuel, combustion-powered system and become an integral part of the entire College’s carbon-free future.
Since its founding, Swarthmore has had a clear understanding of its responsibility to the environment. 20X35 will contribute to limiting the effects of the climate crisis, which disproportionately affects underserved communities across the globe. Moving forward, the College hopes its newly carbon-free campus sets a high standard, inspiring both institutions and individuals to take action.
At Swarthmore, our commitment to sustainability can be seen and felt on campus — and we can’t wait for students like you to continue to help us explore new ways to make an impact.
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Clubs & Activities
IDENTITY & INCLUSION
ASSOCIATION FOR MARGINALIZED STUDENTS IN ECONOMICS • BLACK IN MATH/STAT • CAMPUS COALITION CONCERNING CHESTER • ORGANIZING TO REDEFINE “ASIAN” ACTIVISM • QUESTBRIDGE • SANGHA • SEXUAL HEALTH ADVOCATES • SOCIETY OF WOMEN ENGINEERS • SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS • TRANS AT SWAT • WOMEN+ IN COMPUTER SCIENCE •
MOVEMENT & WELLNESS
ARCHERY CLUB • BARBELL CLUB • BOWLING CLUB • EQUESTRIAN CLUB • GOLF CLUB • GOOD FOOD PROJECT • HERBIVORES • JUDO • MOTHERPUCKERS • SKI CLUB • SWAT CIRCUS • SWATDOULAS •
INTELLECT & CURIOSITY
180 DEGREES CONSULTING • AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS • BEEKEEPING CLUB • BIRD CLUB • CHESS CLUB • EFFECTIVE ALTRUISM • GOOGLE DEVELOPERS STUDENT CLUB • HEALTH SOCIETY • MOCK TRIAL • QUIZBOWL • ROBOTICS CLUB • ROCKET CLUB • SHOGI CLUB • THE PHOENIX STUDENT NEWSPAPER • TECH FOR SOCIAL GOOD • VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSOCIATES •
EXPRESSION & ARTS
ANIME CLUB • BOY MEETS TRACTOR COMEDY • CINEMA CLUB • GLASS BLOWING CLUB • KITAO GALLERY • MIXED COMPANY A CAPPELLA • OUR ARTS SPOKEN IN SOUL • PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB • RHYTHM N’ MOTION • SALSA CLUB • SEWING, UPCYCLING, CROCHETING, AND KNITTING CLUB • SMALL CRAFT WARNINGS LITERARY JOURNAL • CAPOEIRA • PRODUCTION AND MUSIC • SWATCOOKS • SWAT SMASH • SWATANGO • SWAUDIO • SWING CLUB • VERTIGO-GO IMPROV COMEDY • WSRN RADIO •
INSIDE THE ACTIVE MIND
Physically, we do as well.
That’s how we like it.
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Athletics
In the last five academic years, the men’s basketball team has reached the D3 Final Four twice; the men’s and women’s swimming teams have each won consecutive conference championships; the softball, baseball, men’s tennis, and women’s soccer teams have won conference titles; and one track & field athlete became a national champion.
Swarthmore & more facts
Mascot: Phineas the Phoenix (Origin story)
nearly half of all swatties participate in club, intramural, or varsity sports
we are a member of the centennial conference (with schools like Johns Hopkins University, Dickinson College, and Haverford College)
4 NCAA Division III National Championships
37 Centennial Conference Championships
18 of our varsity athletes have been named rhoDes scholars
VARSITY ATHLETICS
Sports for every Swattie
MEN’S:
Basketball
Cross Country
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
WOMEN’S:
Basketball
Cross Country
Field Hockey
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
Volleyball
INTRAMURAL:
Kickball
Soccer
Ultimate Frisbee
Volleyball
Pickleball
Dodgeball
CLUB:
Fencing
Rugby
Squash
Ultimate Frisbee (team names: Warmothers and Earthworms)
VARSITY ATHLETICS
MEN’S:
Basketball
Cross Country
Golf
Lacrosse
Soccer
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
WOMEN’S:
Basketball
Cross Country
Field Hockey
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track & Field
Volleyball
Sports for every Swattie
INTRAMURAL:
Kickball
Soccer
Ultimate Frisbee
Volleyball
Pickleball
Dodgeball
CLUB:
Fencing
Rugby
Squash
Ultimate Frisbee (team names: Warmothers and Earthworms)
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Wellness
Mindfulness Journal
Set your intentions:
What are some things you can do for yourself today to make your day great?
Ex: Get takeout from the Dining Center and have a picnic on Parrish Beach with my friends.
Ex: The tree-shrouded bench outside of the amphitheater.
Ex: My roommate, who ordered me a birthday cake from the Dining Center this year.
List out some of the things you admire about yourself.
Ex: I am an optimist. I will rise above all obstacles like Phineas the Phoenix.
There’s no one way to “Be Well.”
We know that there are many facets of well-being and many ways to be well. So we’ve worked to create the Be Well Initiative — a robust offering of resources that ensures all students have access to wellness in whatever ways are most meaningful and useful for them:
Career Services
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Gender & Sexuality Center
Student Health & Wellness Center
TimelyCare free of charge to students (online therapy)
Title IX Office
Art in Nature Contest
Group Circuit Training
Fall Foraging
Dear Evan Hansen Movie Matinee and Talk
Chapter 4: Resources & Facilities | Phineas the Phoenix Lore
Phineas is taller in person.
Though we’ve never met, Phineas greets me with a big, feathered hug. I feel their avian heart is beating big and fast. They smell of magic and ashes.
Phineas orders a bark beetle larvae and earthworm smoothie. When the kid behind the register explains that they don’t have those ingredients, Phineas’ feathers aren’t ruffled. “That’s okay, I brought my own,” they say. They pull a Tupperware from their pocket, handing it across the counter before adding with a wink, “Extra chia seeds, too.”
We grab a table by the door, even though there’s a secluded booth in the corner. Unlike most celebrities, Phineas wants to
be seen. But what I want, and why I traveled here to this leafy, sun-dappled campus just west of Philadelphia, is to uncover where Phineas the Phoenix is from.
Some say they were created in a biology lab in Trotter Hall. Others think they’re the creation of an enterprising costumer in the Swarthmore Theater Department. There are even some who claim Phineas is the only surviving member of a rare species that flew over from the nearby John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum.
“I’m immortal,” they say, gently rubbing an unblinking eye. “I’ve been here forever.”
I ask them about ancient Greece, the role of death and rebirth in life’s journey, and the ephemeral nature of fire. But, regardless of what I ask Phineas, the conversation keeps coming back to Swarthmore College’s robust offerings.
I can see the fiery passion flickering and burning in Phineas’ eyes. Or perhaps they’re just on fire — again.
Chapter 5: Next Steps | A Walk Through Generations
And it will be established again and again by the next eclectic group of individuals who come together to build on what we’ve always been.
Chapter 5: Next Steps | Financial Aid & Access
SETS YOU UP FOR SUCCESS
LOAN-FREE FINANCIAL AID
Our financial aid decisions consist of grants (which do not need to be repaid) and the expectation that students will work part time on campus up to eight hours per week during the academic year to cover part of their contribution.
NEED-BLIND ADMISSION FOR DOMESTIC STUDENTS*
For U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or undocumented/DACA students graduating from a U.S. high school, we admit students without considering their ability to pay.
COLLEGE DETERMINED NEED IS MET 100%
To determine an admitted student’s need, we look at several financial factors to decide how much aid the student is eligible to receive. Once that’s determined, we meet 100% of it.
52% of students
$1,000 to full cost of attendance
TRANSPARENT COST BREAKDOWN (2023-24)
Chapter 5: Next Steps | Steps to Apply
Swikimore
Part 1: Choose how you want to apply.
- Common Application
- Coalition on Scoir Application
- QuestBridge Application
Part 2: Complete the Swarthmore College short-answer prompts.
Part 3: Submit your test scores. (Or don’t.)
Part 4: We’ll take it from here.
By the time we offer you admission, your application may have been reviewed in as many as half a dozen committees, each of which considers the full context of your lived experiences and opportunities.
Winter Early Decision: Jan. 4
Regular Decision: Jan. 4
Transfer Applicants: April 1
What’s next?
In potential students, we value:
- Intellectual curiosity
- Creative & proactive problem-solving
- An enthusiasm for learning
- Willingness to work hard & to seek help
- Generosity toward others
- Sustained commitment to activities
- Community engagement
- Potential contributions to campus life
- Open-mindedness
In keeping wtith Swarthmore’s commitment to environmental sustainability, this viewbook has been printed on paper made from 100% post-consumer waste using vegetable-based inks.
The quotations throughout this book have been excerpted from conversations with Swarthmore students and professors.
