As the Resident Assistant for Palmer Dorm this semester, I’ve truly come to appreciate the unique charm of living in this quaint stone building, located near the Senior apartments (within the NPPR housing block). Palmer primarily houses upperclassmen, with a few lucky sophomores sprinkled in. Adjoined to Pittinger dorm, it has a homey atmosphere that feels like a welcoming haven.
A Cozy Community Hub
One of the highlights of Palmer is its spacious lounge and lobby area. Here, you’ll find multiple tables and chairs, two cozy couches, a pool table, and a TV for movie nights. Plus, there’s a printer and computer for those last-minute assignments, laundry units for convenience, and a generously-sized kitchen complete with a fridge, freezer, stove top, and oven.
The location is also fantastic; Palmer is just a short stroll from the Ville (the town of Swarthmore) and our athletic facilities, and only about seven minutes from the dining hall. Academic buildings like Parrish are around a 12-minute walk away, making it a perfectly situated home base for busy students. What makes living in Palmer especially enjoyable is the calmness of its residents. The peaceful atmosphere has been a breath of fresh air for me as an RA.
Vintage vs. Modern Housing
One of the many amazing aspects of Swarthmore is its diverse housing options. My sophomore year, I lived in David Kemp (DK) dorm, one of the newer buildings on campus. While I appreciated its modern amenities and cleanliness, I often found it lacking character. Now, as a junior residing in the “vintage” charm of Palmer, I’m reminded of the warmth and history that older dorms provide.
The exterior, with its classic Pennsylvania stone design, resembles a grand old house. Inside, the creaky stairs, absence of AC, and narrower hallways contribute to the cozy, lived-in feel that Palmer is known for. The dorm features spacious singles and five large doubles, most with expansive windows that overlook either the Ville or the baseball and softball fields. Personally, I adore my four large windows—they bring in so much natural light!
Building a Strong Community
The close quarters foster a sense of community that’s invaluable. Everyday interactions, whether they’re casual chats or chance encounters, create opportunities for residents to connect and build networks. This social dynamic plays a vital role in enhancing well-being and making student housing enjoyable. A positive living situation is a key component of the college experience, and cultivating a sense of community within dorms is essential.
A Diverse and Inclusive Environment
Swarthmore’s housing charm lies in its diversity and fluidity of choices. Freshmen can live alongside upperclassmen, and RAs have the unique opportunity to mentor students of all ages. This creates an egalitarian atmosphere where class year distinctions fade away.
I genuinely love being an RA in Palmer, surrounded by sophomores, juniors, and seniors, each bringing their own quirks and stories. Living in Palmer has deepened my appreciation for the “vintage” aspects of dorm life, where every creak of the floor tells a story and every corner holds a memory.
