Kelly Swanick ’11

For students at Saint Joseph's, Spirit , Intellect , and Purpose represent more than mere words on a page. These are the ideals we strive for – the ones that Kelly Swanick '11 represents as a determined athlete, a motivated student, and a devoted volunteer.

Swanick is originally from Malvern, Pa., where she attended Villa Maria Academy. As one who loves to travel, it's no surprise that location played a big role in her search for colleges. “Saint Joseph's was not too far from home while still far enough to seem like I was away at college,” says Swanick. She also considered her other great passions – sports, scholarship, and service to others.

“I knew I wanted to go to a school that would allow me to play a Division I sport while also letting my focus on my academics, participate in community service and be involved in other activities,” Swanick says. “As a Jesuit University, Saint Joe's offers a diverse course load, and I felt like it would provide me a better all-around education than other schools.”

Now a sophomore accounting major, Swanick has spent two seasons with SJU field hockey, where her fellow Hawks have evolved into more than just teammates. “The girls are my family while I'm here at school. We win, we lose, and we learn together ,” says Swanick. “I think being part of a team while in college is a great support system.”

In addition to playing field hockey, Swanick puts her accounting skills to work with VITA –Volunteer Income Tax Assistance – a weekly program that prepares tax returns for low-income individuals. She has also devoted her spring breaks to the Appalachian Experience, which filled her with a sense of belonging before she even departed Hawk Hill. “The first time I truly felt part of the SJU community was the night I left to go to Appalachia for the first time,” remembers Swanick. “Over four hundred students were sitting in the chapel excitedly waiting for the send-off. While sitting there, it was then that I realized I was part of an experience much bigger than myself.”

Swanick applies this same feeling to all of Saint Joseph's University. “The first thing that comes to mind when I'm asked about Saint Joe's is ‘community.' The second you walk through campus the feeling of community engulfs you,” Swanick says. “Whether it be walking around campus or sitting in the classroom, you are person, not a number, being greeted by many smiling faces.”

This Jesuit tradition of cura personalis – care of the individual – has already impacted Swanick's educational pursuits. “Saint Joe's has provided me with opportunities that I know will help me in the future. The Business School and the Career Development Center have really given me insight and advice for networking and obtaining internships,” Swanick says. “And not only has SJU impacted me in the classroom, but socially I feel that I've already built strong relationships that will continue to grow after graduation.”

Swanick hopes for her relationship with the University to grow after graduation as well. “Over a handful of my direct family members are current alumni of the University, so I've seen firsthand how important it is to stay connected and give back to your alma mater,” Swanick says. “I hope to help in any way I can, whether it be financially or in other aspects, since SJU has become such an important part of my life, and will continue to be a part of my life post-graduation.”

Swanick has high hopes for this post-graduate life. “I plan to start my career in the field of accounting, and my goal is to work for a ‘Big Four' firm in Philadelphia,” she says. “I want to feel confident that I am substantially contributing to my company's success.” In light of her current ambitions and admirable work ethic, these chances look promising. And for those just beginning their college careers at Saint Joseph's, Swanick offers valuable advice.

“Meet as many people as you can, and join as much as you can without spreading yourself too thin. The transition can be challenging, but SJU offers so many resources and activities to make it easier. Don't be afraid to try new things that maybe weren't ‘cool' in high school. And finally, know that as much you put into your college experience is as much as you're going to get out. College is what you make of it.”