How long have international students been coming to Swarthmore? What was it like to be an international student 50 years ago? 25 years ago? What about now? How do we continue to grow and strengthen this community?
(This project was conceived under the Inclusive Excellence Fellow Initiative at Swarthmore College, under the title Uncovering Swarthmore’s International Community)
Named in honor of the first known international student at Swarthmore, The 1875 is more than a magazine – it is a bridge between past and present, a space where international students and alumni can find common ground in shared histories, challenges, and triumphs. It is a platform that documents the experiences of those who have navigated Swarthmore as international students, bringing visibility to their stories and deepening the connection between current students, alumni, and the broader college community.
For many international students, coming to Swarthmore is a journey filled with both excitement and uncertainty. The experience is shaped by cultural adjustments, academic aspirations, and the search for belonging in a new environment. Yet, these experiences are not isolated. Generations of international students before us have walked similar paths, forging friendships, overcoming obstacles, and leaving their mark on the college. Their stories are a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and contributions of Swarthmore’s global community.
Through The 1875, we document these narratives – both past and present. We delve into the archives to uncover the history of international students at Swarthmore, tracing the evolution of this community over time. We share the journeys of alumni, showcasing how their time at Swarthmore shaped their lives beyond college. In doing so, we highlight the enduring threads that connect international students across generations.
But this is more than just a retrospective effort. The 1875 is a call to action. We invite international alumni to share their stories – whether through writing or interviews – because your experiences matter. Your insights can offer guidance and encouragement to current students who are navigating the same questions and uncertainties that you once faced. The commitment is small, but the impact is immeasurable. By contributing, you help weave a more complete and inclusive narrative of Swarthmore’s international student experience, ensuring that future generations have a rich history to draw from.
At its core, The 1875 is about community. It is about recognizing that, while each international student’s journey is unique, there is a collective history that binds us together. It is about strengthening the ties between international students and the college as a whole, fostering a sense of belonging that extends beyond graduation.
We invite you to be part of this endeavor – to read, reflect, contribute, and connect. Because the story of Swarthmore’s international community is still being written, and every voice matters.
The Team
