If you are reading this blog post, chances are you've done some research about Swarthmore. Swarthmore College. A prestigious institution known for its academic rigor. I'll admit, classes at Swarthmore can be challenging and the workload isn't light. As a campus tour guide, one question that I consistently get from visitors is, "What do Swatties do for fun? Do you guys even have the time for that?" Long answer short—yes. And here's what I do for fun:
Spontaneous trips to Philadelphia. I am a firm believer in the mantra, "no plan is the best plan." On a fine day when my classes end earlier than expected, I like to hop on the SEPTA (regional rail) and head to Philly. I go shopping at the Fashion District or hit different clothing stores on Walnut Street. I like to go on quests, trying out different cuisines from around the world, expanding my taste palettes and sophisticating my taste buds. (My all-time favorite one, by far, was Ethiopian lamb!) I like to go to Chinatown for hotpot and boba. I like to go to Rittenhouse Square for a picnic. Philly is also known for its concerts and musical performances. Live music and small venues are how I like to spend my Fridays and Saturdays, before heading back to campus all recharged and ready for the upcoming week.
X Ambassadors Concert at the Theatre of Living Arts, Philadelphia
Kitao Gallery Workshops and DIY crafts. Ever since I was young, I loved to build my own stuff. From legos, to origami, to knitting, to gardening, I enjoyed hands-on activities. Unfortunately, I've never been artsy enough to pursue it beyond my childhood. Kitao offered me a chance to pick up this passion of mine. Kitao is a student-run art gallery on campus that provides students a space to practice art. Kitao is especially famous for its craft nights or weekly workshops that provide students with instructions, resources/ingredients, and a venue to create art. Some of my favorite workshops have been ring making, mirror decor, and personalizing tote bags.
Rings We Made during Crafts Night at Kitao
Karaoke night at SCI 101. Sci 101 or Chang Hou Hall is one of Swarthmore's biggest lecture halls. It hosts approximately 200 students and is where many of our big intro classes take place. However, this exact room is open and vacant in the evening. Days when I'm stressed, can't wrap my head around this one concept, didn't do too well in class, have a lot of work to do, simply want to procrastinate, or want to fool around, I head to SCI 101. As most lecture halls do, SCI 101 has a podium, projector and screen, and mics and speakers. (I would also like to say the walls are soundproof.) I like to host my unofficial karaoke nights in SCI 101. It's a stress reliever and a great way to have fun without having to leave campus.
Chang Hou Hall in Science Center (SCI 101)
Bonfires at Crumhenge. Swarthmore is located on a 220-acre woodland called Crum Woods. If you follow one of the hiking trails into the woods, you will run into a space that students refer to as the "Crumhenge." It is a collection of stone seats with a bonfire pit. It resembles the Stonehenge in the UK, except located in Crum Woods, hence the name. My friends and I love to spend time at the henge. We host bonfire parties, make s'mores, and play games and music.
Bonfire with Friends at Crumhenge
Napping on Parrish Beach. I would be lying if I were to tell you college students love to be productive during their free time. One of my favorite things to do for fun is to NAP. I love my naps, and I take them pretty seriously. I like to nap on Parrish Beach, an open and vast lawn area outside Parrish Hall. After my morning classes, I go to the beach, do some readings/homework on the lawn, and take my afternoon naps in the sun. Parrish Beach naps are the best part about the springs and summers at Swat.
Swatties on Parrish Beach (ft. Me getting ready for nap time)
Fun is subjective. Different Swatties find different things "fun." But lesson of the post: Swatties know how to have fun in our own ways. And yes, we find time for it!
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