Learning from those who came before us

When I read my college alumni magazine, I flip first to the class notes, as so many readers do. I read the entries from my own class and spend time with those from the classes a decade or so ahead of me in life. I’m curious about the experiences of those who came before me — what they’ve seen and learned, what they regret doing or not doing, what shaped and filled them, the wisdom they’ve gained so far in life that might inform my own.

Students learning from those who have come before is central to Bryn Mawr in a way I have not experienced on other campuses. A newcomer attending their first Lantern Night sees immediately the intentionality with which class after class, generation after generation, takes seriously the responsibility of legacy. Cycles of colored lanterns mark the handing down of light, knowledge, experiences, and friendships.

Last year, as preparations began for my first Bryn Mawr Commencement, I asked seniors about items they would propose for a Bryn Mawr bucket list: What should every student who followed in their footsteps make sure to experience before they graduate? We set up a poster board on the third floor of Taylor so that seniors who came to ring the bell at the completion of their final paper or exam could leave a note of advice, to be given to an incoming student at orientation.

The Bryn Mawr Bucket List — which is perhaps evolving into something of a tradition in itself — speaks to all aspects of the student experience, on campus and beyond. “Be a Maypole dancer on May Day.” “Build a snowman on Denbigh Green.” “Do homework in a hammock on Senior Row.” “Have a meal in the Swarthmore dining hall.” “Explore Philly’s Chinatown.” “Make an offering to Athena.”

Beyond the specifics, I am moved by the larger point this advice makes: Some of the best of Bryn Mawr is informal, intergenerational, context-specific, fun — and life-changing in the best ways. If you have bucket-list items to suggest for our students — and for me! — please write to wcadge@brynmawr.edu.