It’s a feeling.
A palpable energy emerges when curious minds come together to share their fresh ideas and unique perspectives. The result is spontaneous intellectual combustion that always meets the moment, strengthens our students’ ability to excel, and makes the world a better place.
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, the next may be a lab report, and the next a comic book, or poem.
Curious yet? Or perhaps you’ve already turned the page… you’re practically a Swattie already.
Community-builders, foodies, bookworms, improvisers, scholars, philosophers, entrepreneurs, gamers, wanderers, wonderers, lab rats, DJs, yogis, rock climbers, a cappella singers, ramen-slurpers, student-athletes, birders, app developers, martial artists, STEM lovers, writers, marathoners, film geeks, pickleballers, Honors students, method actors, designers, 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
At the end of your sophomore 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
- 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
- Medieval Studies
- Modern Languages & Literatures
- Music
- Neuroscience
- Peace & Conflict Studies
- Philosophy
- Philosophy, Politics & Economics
- 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.
The program isn’t “better” than our standard curriculum; it’s simply another route to express your intellectual curiosity with the guidance of our world-class faculty.
One distinct trait of the Honors Program is that you’ll have the opportunity to share and discuss your work with outside experts (from the Federal Reserve, Harvard University, Broadway, and beyond) during your final exams. You have the chance to meet one-on-one with some of the people who are living what you’re learning. Better yet, you can 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
HOLLY BIRCH, September 8, 2025
My First Week at Swarthmore
In high school, I was so focused on grades and rankings. But it’s different here. Other Swatties don’t gloat about their scores or obsess over GPAs — instead, they’ll offer to help you edit your paper before it’s due. They’ll meet up to study after dinner, and they’ll spark the most incredible conversations. Honestly, I think I’ve learned just as much outside of class as I have in it.
And I can’t wait for what’s ahead. I’ve never taken a computer science class before, or an engineering class — but here I am, diving into both, plus a first-year poetry seminar.
Speaking of engineering, I remember from my campus tour (way back when) how rare it is for a small liberal arts college to have an accredited engineering program. One thing I love about Swarthmore’s program is how it goes beyond the science — it weaves in leadership, ethics, and the humanities. It prepares you to think about the impact of your work on the world, and I know that’s the kind of perspective that makes you stand out in the workforce.
But honestly? It’s way too soon to be thinking about jobs. I haven’t even picked a major yet — and that’s exactly where I’m supposed to be. Because having the “right” Swarthmore experience (if there is one) means exploring, trying new things, and learning across disciplines. The world feels wide open right now, and it’s only my first semester.
REMINDER:
Tuesday 1 p.m. in McCabe
September 15, 2025
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).
NOTES:
- 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
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 might put you at risk of delaying your graduation at other institutions, that’s not the case here. 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
Committed to the Common Good
The Lang Center for Civic & Social Responsibility
You’ll have countless opportunities to learn and work alongside local and global community members in courses and programs that contribute to a better world.
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?
INSTITUTIONS EMPLOYING OUR GRADUATES:
- Apple
- BBC World Service
- Boston Consulting Group
- CBS News
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Civil Rights Corps
- Field Museum of Natural History
- Hermés
- JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Microsoft
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Modern Language Association
- National Institutes of Health
- 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 2024 GRADUATES ENTERED THESE FIELDS:
- Research (25%)
- Legal & Administration (16%)
- Engineering (15%)
- Education (9%)
- Finance (8%)
- Consulting (6%)
- Health Care (3%)
- Community & Social Services (3%)
- Data & Analytics (3%)
INSTITUTIONS EMPLOYING OUR GRADUATES:
- Apple
- BBC World Service
- Boston Consulting Group
- CBS News
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Civil Rights Corps
- Field Museum of Natural History
- Hermés
- JPMorgan Chase & Co.
- Microsoft
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Modern Language Association
- National Institutes of Health
- 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 2024 GRADUATES ENTERED THESE FIELDS:
- Research (25%)
- Legal & Administration (16%)
- Engineering (15%)
- Education (9%)
- Finance (8%)
- Consulting (6%)
- Health Care (3%)
- Community & Social Services (3%)
- Data & Analytics (3%)
Chapter 1: Academics | Academic Support
A Wealth of Academic Support
Students serve as liaisons between the CS faculty and CS students
Alchemists
Drop-in study sessions for chemistry
Catalysts
Peer learning led by advanced biology students
Laboratory Teaching Assistants
Classroom support and evening help sessions
Ninjas
Computer science group study and tutors
Office of Academic Success
Individual and group sessions for students with demonstrated academic need
Pi-rates & Mu-ses
Math & stat academic support, group study, and tutors
Research and Information Associates
Support in finding and evaluating information across campus libraries
Student Advisory Group in Engineering
Science Associates Program
Collaborative problem-solving
Student Academic Mentors
Residence hall peers who help with time management and course registration
Supertonics
Drop-in sessions by upper-level music students
Visible Hands
Section-specific clinics and open study sessions for economics courses
Wizards
Engineering academic support and group study and tutors
Writing Center
Staffed by trained writing associates and speaking associates who help peers improve their writing and public speaking skills
The office of academic success
Speaking of graduate study, Swarthmore’s Pre-Law Office and Pre-Health Office have dedicated advisors who help students prepare for advanced study in those fields. From course planning to law and medical school application preparation, Swatties are set up for success.
Medical School Acceptance rate
Law School Acceptance rate
GRADUATE SCHOOLS MOST ATTENDED BY SWARTHMORE’S CLASS OF 2024:
- Columbia University
- Harvard University
- Northwestern University
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- Thomas Jefferson University
- University of California‚ Berkeley
- University of Michigan
- University of Pennsylvania
- Yale University
Where Swarthmore ALUMNI RANK NATIONALLY IN PHD EARNERS:
Chapter 2: Inclusive Community | By the Numbers
say it, we want
you to feel it.
all students by race/ethnicity:
- American Indian or Alaska Native: <1%
- Asian: 17%
- Black or African American: 9%
- Hispanic: 15%
- Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: <1%
- Two or more races: 11%
- Unreported: 3%
- U.S. non-resident: 13%
- White: 30%
Geographic distribution of all students by home address:
- Middle Atlantic: 37%
- Midwest: 7%
- Mountain States: 3%
- New England: 7%
- Southeast: 11%
- Southwest: 5%
- West Coast: 14%
- International: 14%
- Countries represented: 59
our admitted class of 2029 included:
- First generation to attend college: 27%
- Community-based organization participants: 27%
- Public or charter school students: 63%
- Rural public school attendees: 6%
Chapter 2: Inclusive Community | Resources & Affinity Groups
If that’s your kind of thing, you’re going to love it here.
AFFINITY GROUPS
First-Gen/Low-Income Council
i20 (International Student Club)
Kehilah (Jewish Student Group)
Muslim Student Association
Students of Caribbean Ancestry
Swarthmore African-American Student Society
Swarthmore African Student Association
Swarthmore Indigenous Student Association
Swarthmore Pan-Asian Association
Swarthmore Queer Union
RESOURCES
First-Gen/Low-Income Program
Gender & Sexuality Center
Intercultural Center
Interfaith Center
International Student Center
Office of Inclusive Excellence
Student Disability Services
Summer Scholars Program (academic immersion before the first-year first semester)
Chapter 2: Inclusive Community | Swarthcore
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
- Athletic
- Environmental
- Laid back
- Musical
- Need time alone
- Outgoing
- Partier
- Politically conscious
- Queer-friendly
- Religious
- Sci-fi/Fantasy fan
- 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 more for them:
LAB FEES
CAMPUS EVENTS
SNACKS AND TREATS
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PASS
THE VILLE:
Swarthmore is a quaint, residential borough right outside of Philadelphia. 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
- Make a playlist of bands you discovered on WSRN
- 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 | Day in the Life
Chapter 3: Campus Life | Noteworthy Facts & Philadelphia
Swat Scouts Merit
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 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 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 powerhouse of our energy system and is located underneath the Dining and Community Commons. Buildings on campus are being connected to the plant in several phases with over a dozen already online. 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 College, 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
Clubs & Activities
COMMUNITY & INCLUSION
MOVEMENT & WELLNESS
INTELLECT & CURIOSITY
EXPRESSION & ARTS
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, Swatties won 17 Centennial conference championships. The men’s basketball team has reached the D3 Final Four and won two Centennial championships; the men’s and women’s swimming teams have each won four consecutive conference championships; softball won two championships; baseball and women’s tennis have each 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
42 Centennial Conference Championships (5 in 2024-25 alone)
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 Essie’s 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. Swarthmore’s Be Well Initiative is a robust offering of resources that ensures all students have access to wellness in the ways that are most meaningful and useful for them:
Career Services
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Gender & Sexuality Center
Interfaith Center & Religious Advisors
Student Health & Wellness Center
TimelyCare free of charge to students (online therapy)
Wellness Events
Art in Nature Contest
Group Circuit Training
Fall Foraging
Candle-making Workshop
Guided Meditation
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. Phineas pulls 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 the Science Center. 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.
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.
54% of students
$1,000 to full cost of attendance
TRANSPARENT COST BREAKDOWN (2024-25)
Chapter 5: Next Steps | Steps to Apply
u/FutureSwattie30
How do I apply to Swarthmore?
Step 1: Choose how you want to apply.
- Common Application
- Coalition on Scoir Application
- QuestBridge Application
Step 2: Complete the Swarthmore College short-answer prompts.
Step 3: Submit your test scores. (Or don’t.)
Step 4: We’ll take it from here.
By the time we offer you admission, your application may have been reviewed by 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
- Enthusiasm for learning
- Willingness to work hard & seek help
- Generosity toward others
- Sustained commitment to activities
- Community engagement
- Potential contributions to campus life
- Open-mindedness
In keeping with 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.
