Anna Marrs '13

EphpreciationAnna Marrs '13Williams pride runs deep in my blood and coming here meant following in the footsteps of various grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents, and siblings. For exactly that reason, as a senior in high school, I was determined not to come to Williams. However, when I visited campus in the midst of a whirlwind college tour, on a beautiful Friday in October that just happened to be Mountain Day, I felt at home immediately. Four years later, with countless memories created, incredible bonds formed, and a wardrobe full of purple and gold clothing, I can’t imagine spending my college years any place else.

This is the reason that Williams is and has been so special to me. Each person on campus finds a smaller community in his or her own niche, which creates strong feelings of belonging. For me, it’s been with the Ephlats, a co-ed a cappella group on campus, and the women’s club water polo team. When I left for college, I told my mom that I wouldn’t be joining any groups or clubs because I was too burnt out from how busy I was in high school and just needed a break. Within a week, I called her to report joining both activities. Yet, as busy as being an active member of the Williams community may make me, I am creating meaningful ties that I know will persist when my time at Williams is over.

Last year I had the opportunity to help shape the Williams community by serving as a Junior Advisor. It was a role that I truly treasured and that has defined my Williams experience. I was able to have an impact on the future of Williams by passing on my purple pride to a new crop of students. But most of all, I formed deep relationships with my first-years and my co-JA (in my picture, above) that I know will continue to draw me back to Williams for years to come.

Now entering my final semester, I have spent significant time reflecting on my experiences here. I know that the various overlapping communities with which I’ve been involved have been crucial to the many wonderful memories that I have created. But the relationships I have formed with various professors through interesting class discussions, tutorial meetings, and scintillating conversations over coffee or dinner have been significant, too. So not only will I be leaving this place with a solid group of friends, but also a group of mentors I can turn to throughout my life.

It is these connections which make Williams such a vibrant community, of which you and I will always be a part, as these bonds and relationships transcend the four years spent in the beautiful Berkshires. Thank you. Your support helps make this place continue to be such a welcoming home and allows us each to find the place where we truly feel we belong.

Sincerely,
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Anna Marrs ’13