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Homecoming Bonfire

Homecoming at Dartmouth is incredibly special, and unlike anything you would see at other schools. Homecoming marks a milestone in the life of many first-year Dartmouth students. Often, it is the first time first years see hundreds of alumni flocking back to campus to commemorate a quintessential Dartmouth tradition. The homecoming bonfire is the highlight of Dartmouth Night, which dates back to 1888, and is just one of the many traditions that Dartmouth has to offer. 

While in 1888 students built the bonfire from anything they could find, even propping up old mattresses to set aflame, today the bonfire is built in a specific structure in order to ensure safety. For the entire week before Homecoming, the college begins preparing for the event setting high wood pillars on the center of The Green. It is a tradition that freshmen help build the bonfire and write their names on wooden boards that will also be engulfed in flames. 

Last year, as I walked around the bonfire surrounded by what would become my closest friends, I remember feeling complete and unadulterated joy. I was finally at Dartmouth, living what I had only ever imagined in my wildest dreams. I had already spent a couple of weeks at Dartmouth and could find my way around here. As I walked around the bonfire, I thought about how I was part of such a large and loving community. Walking around the bonfire, I felt how this would just be one of many Dartmouth Nights that will come in the future. I truly felt like Dartmouth was home, and it always would be. Dartmouth would always continue to be a part of me. 

This past weekend, as I experienced homecoming for the second time, I felt a renewed sense of belonging. As I watched the freshmen walking around the blazing bonfire I felt so happy to be able to welcome new students to Dartmouth. Every year onwards, I could go back to Dartmouth and participate in a tradition that has taken place for more than 134 years and will continue to exist for many more. And every time, I will be so glad to be coming home. 

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