Roots of belonging

Envision this — it’s move-in day, and your parents just said goodbye to you at the residence hall that will become your new home. You’re feeling a mix of emotions, both excitement and nerves, eager to uncover what the academic year holds. As you settle into your new living space alongside your roommate for the next nine months, you both take a moment to soak in the ambiance. The windows are open and that’s when you hear it ... your favorite song. In that instant, it feels like a reassuring sign confirming that you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

For University of Akron (UA) freshmen, Kylee Schwartz and Elyse Schmitt, that is exactly what happened. Originally from Salem, Ohio, the two girls were already best friends when they decided to make UA their home for the next four years.

Living in Spicer Hall, their room quickly transformed into a hub of activity, with board game nights becoming a fun tradition. Schmitt, a criminal justice and criminology major, and Schwartz, a psychology major, found camaraderie not only with each other, but also among their fellow floormates.

“It was kind of a requirement that if you wanted to come into our room, you had to play ‘Just Dance’ with us,” Schwartz said, reminiscing about the bonds formed over friendly competition playing the electronic dancing game.

As they have navigated through their first year on campus, the sense of community within Spicer Hall formed. From events organized by Residence Life staff to random gatherings with their neighbors, UA quickly began to feel like home.

“We connected with everybody on our floor, so we got lucky. I really consider this whole floor family,” Schmitt said.

But beyond the friendships and camaraderie, it was the little amenities provided by the University that truly solidified UA as their home away from home. From free toilet paper, menstrual products and cleaning supplies to the support offered by Residence Life staff, the sense of belonging was more than just the physical space.

The girls reflected on their journey so far with a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation. “UA feels like home because of all the friends I’ve met. I truly can see them being future bridesmaids at my wedding,” Schwartz shared.

And as they contemplated the inevitable departure that awaits in just a few years, a bittersweet realization settled over them.

I remember bawling my eyes out, not wanting to leave my hometown. But now, I’m going to be really sad when it’s our time to leave UA,” Schmitt said.

“Recently, on our way back to Akron from our hometown, Kylee mentioned, ‘I can’t wait to go home,’ meaning back to Akron,” said Schmitt. “In that moment, I found myself saying ‘me too.’ I miss Akron when I’m away. I like being here, having a sense of belonging, being around my friends and the feeling of home that I’ve built here.”

For Schwartz and Schmitt, The University of Akron has become more than just a campus and, as they looked ahead to the future, one thing is certain — no matter where life takes them, UA will always hold a special place in their hearts.

Story by Bree Sabin