The Home Stretch
Rounding third and headed for home, we’re reaching the bottom of the ninth. As graduation comes closer for the Class of 2023, it’s hard not to get nostalgic about the memories made across a college career. From favorite courses and professors, to clubs and student events, sports games and intramural leagues, there’s so much to reflect on.
I’m glad I took advantage of a lot of things as a student. Being a part of Arcadia For The Kids since its inception and helping the club grow before finally taking the executive role showed me what one group with a shared passion can achieve. We raised over $20,000 to cover medical expenses of pediatric cancer patients with the Four Diamonds Fund. I learned what it takes to put on a successful fundraiser with my team and am proud of what we accomplished. Working in the Writing Center helped me develop skills in communication as well as writing. I’m glad to have helped students find their written voices to best express their ideas. My editing eye has sharpened, which benefits both my own writing and what I read from others. Going to Newman Club and Arcadia Christian Fellowship helped me make good friends who share my values. Those clubs were a great release during the semester to just kick back and have some laughs. We have the best group for some glow-in-the-dark frisbee and if you’ve never joined ACF’s ultimate cabbage game, look out for that each fall. Talk about a game that’s ridiculous but entertaining.
I made sure to take courses that complimented my interests, such as Grant Writing for Nonprofits, Writing for Children, and Travel Literature. I also took the chance to venture outside of the English department for courses like Learning & Cognition, Research Methods, and even learning Spanish. I enjoyed my first-year seminar on Parks and Recreation, because who doesn’t love homework to watch episodes of Parks and Rec. Plus our professor was a real-life Leslie Knope with all the same enthusiasm. I got to volunteer with students at Our Lady of Confidence making watercolor banners in Linda Ruth Paskell’s Artist in the Community course. Each course either expanded my knowledge, expressed my creativity, or sharpened my skills, and I’m grateful for what I’ve learned. Consider these my course recommendations if they fit in your schedule!
There were also the bigger school-wide events, like the Blitz Carnival where I freezed in the dunk tank and made some cool tie-dye. Or going to the Career Fair and getting to meet with companies I’d be interested in applying to. And hearing from members of the Lenape about their cultural heritage and the value of storytelling. There is always something happening that you don’t want to miss out on.
I think that’s especially important to remember, since there were some events that I missed and would’ve liked to experience. Things like the university’s gala at the Franklin Institute or going abroad for Preview freshman year (although a global pandemic kind of took that one out of my hands). I also wish I had applied to write for Because Arcadia sooner. These blogs have been a great way to reflect on experiences and turn the memories into something tangible to look back on.
There are a few final opportunities to make some lasting memories at Arcadia. A rebranded Blitz Carnival (now called Scarlet Knights), Senior Week sendoffs, and, of course, all the Commencement events. I’ll be sure to make the most out of what I have left. Make sure you spend your time at Arcadia well!
