After getting to talk with so many different people who participated in this project, I noticed a lot of similarities between these people (and myself). For example, many people grew up doing similar things like biking and playing with neighborhood friends. Those that lived near the ocean often spent a lot of time at the beach, while those that lived in colder regions loved spending time in the snow- building igloos, sledding, snowshoeing, etc. It was also interesting to see how many people intend to, or have, returned to the state or region they grew up in later in life. For example, many people who grew up near the ocean intend to live near the ocean in the future (I also do). Multiple students from the west coast want to return to the west coast, and the same can be said for students/alumni from other countries. Conversely, after growing up in a conservative state and then coming to Vassar, some students do not intend to go back to a conservative place. Others after experiencing both non-seasons and seasons have decided that they prefer one over the other- either warmer climates or the change in seasons. Many people from Vassar also seem to have been drawn to New York City, whether that be living directly in the city or within commuting distance. 

When picking Vassar, many people chose it for it’s liberal arts education and lack of core curriculum, the fact that it’s academically a high achieving institution, the beautiful campus, generous financial aid, and quirkiness about it. Others went on a pure whim and decided to attend or teach here because they needed a job. Surprisingly, many people also had a history of Vassar alumnus in their family- some of which had family members who were faculty and went on to become faculty themselves. 

Frequent favorite places on campus were sunset lake, main building, the farm, the deece, and one’s dorm or living space. Overlap in favorite memories included nights at the mug (back when it existed), drinking or smoking with friends, hanging out into the wee hours of the night, eating at the deece and study sessions. 

From interviewing students, faculty, and alumni cross-generationally, I noticed some changes in this place. Overall the core of Vassar stayed the same throughout the years- many described Vassar as a place with inquisitive and incredible students and professors, and a place where students are taught to question everything they learn and speak up (even “rebel” a little bit). However, physical changes occurred at Vassar. Once an all-female institution, the whole senior class used to live in Main together. In 1969, Vassar went coed and introduced its first male class. Not long after, the THs (Townhouses) and TAs (Town Apartments) were built to house upperclassmen. Later the SoCos (South Commons) were also built with the same purpose.  Dining also experienced a shift in the ‘70s, moving from eating all meals in your dorm dining hall to eating at the All Campus Dining Center (aka ACDC, the Deece, Gordon Commons). There also used to be an on-campus bar and dance floor in the basement of Main, called the “Mug” from 1975-2010 [Miscellany News 2011]. Parties also used to be held in dorm MPRs, with different dorms hosting each weekend. Kegs also used to be allowed and quite common. When COVID does not exist, now parties usually occur in TAs, THs, or suites in Main. 

Some people considered Vassar to be a home for them, but not everyone did. People’s definitions of home varied; many felt like home was a place you are most comfortable, a place where people you love are, or not a place at all. Some described home as a feeling, a place where creativity exists, somewhere you live long-term/permanently. A few people said they have yet to find a home, and are still searching for one. Truthfully, after hearing everyone’s different definitions of home, I have had a hard time coming up with my own unique definition for fear that I am “stealing” someone else’s. However, I’ve decided that home to me is the feeling of love I experience when I’m around my grandparents. The moment I walk through their door, see them, or talk to them on the phone, I feel at home. Some of my favorite memories are with them- cutting down a Christmas tree with my Grandpa every December, baking in my Grandma’s kitchen, or going on yearly summer camping trips with them. Being with them has always been a bit of a safe haven from the world, and a place where I feel unconditionally loved.

I hope you enjoy reading all these different stories- everyone played a valuable role in my project and has something uniquely interesting about their story.