A TWAMP, or Typical William and Mary Person, is a word that was created as an insult to describe students who spend a lot of time studying and care deeply about their grades. But it’s slowly become less of an insult and more of an affectionate term used to playfully tease a friend who’s fulfilling all the stereotypes of W&M. Here are some reasons why I myself identify as (and am often called) a TWAMP, and why I’ve come to embrace that part of myself.
1. I spend a lot of time in the library.
Yeah, William & Mary people are good students. That’s what got us here in the first place. We take hard classes and therefore have a lot of homework. I’m not ashamed to be at Swem so much; it’s such a comfy environment to read and study in. Also, we have massage chairs - I mean, what’s not to love?
2. I love Aromas.
There is honestly nothing better than a Snickers latte when you’re studying in Swem, except maybe a cup of hot apple cider in the fall. Swemromas has been and will continue to be, the place that I shamelessly spend all my dining dollars at. Who needs food, anyway?
3. I have a lot of school spirit.
I am unapologetically spirited and dress from head to toe in green and gold for football and basketball games. I never hesitate to wear a W&M t-shirt around campus, and I am constantly bragging to other people about how wonderful I think my school is.
4. I’m involved in school activities.
I always find myself running from club to club, because somehow they all always end up on the same day. I’m a member of a few too many clubs, but that’s part of what makes me such a huge TWAMP.
5. I made sure to have a class in the Wren building.
The item on top of every William & Mary student’s bucket list is to have class in the Wren building. Some of us (myself included) were lucky enough to get a class there our first semester. Others wait until second semester of senior year to check this off their bucket list.
6. I go to Marketplace far more often than I should.
Yes, I realize that Marketplace is on the exact opposite side of campus. But do I care? Of course not. This is by far the best place that takes meal swipes, which makes it totally worth it to walk 15 minutes there and 15 minutes back just for dinner.
7. I want to get married in the Wren chapel someday.
Who wouldn’t want to have their wedding in the Wren chapel? It’s gorgeous and historic and allows all of your guests to experience a little piece of your alma mater.
8. I think President Reveley is amazing.
What other college president would use the word “frisky” or the phrase “succulent bits” in a sentence and wear a tiger-striped jacket on Halloween while allowing students to trick-or-treat at his house? Reveley is, in all our eyes, amazing, and embodies the William & Mary spirit.
