By Gracyn Van Bemmel //
Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday—it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and, of course, food. For many students, the dishes that grace their Thanksgiving tables are more than a meal; they’re a link to cherished memories and cultural heritage.
Whether it’s the smell of turkey roasting in the oven, the sweet aroma of pies cooling on the counter or the comforting warmth of a homemade casserole, these foods hold a special place in the hearts of many.
At Hood College, the variety of Thanksgiving favorites reflects the diversity of the student body. While classics like turkey and mashed potatoes remain staples, many students bring unique family recipes to the table, from spiced stuffing and savory gravy to internationally inspired twists like tamales or samosas. Each dish tells a story of tradition passed down through generations or a modern spin on old favorites.
“My grandmom makes creamed pearl onions and cornbread stuffing,” Reganne Haley, a resident assistant at Coblentz Hall, said. “Both of those are homemade and are things that were passed down from generation to generation.”
For some, it’s the creamy richness of mac and cheese that makes the day complete. For others, it’s the tangy burst of cranberry sauce or the flaky crust of a perfectly baked pie. Even side dishes like green bean casserole or candied yams spark passionate debates about the best way to prepare them. No matter the choice, these dishes highlight how food can evoke comfort, nostalgia and joy, creating moments that stay with us long after the plates are cleared.
Hood student Jasmine Addison is among the group of mac and cheese enthusiasts on campus. “It’s my favorite because: cheese,” she said, further explaining how it’s her mother’s recipe that makes that dish so special to her. “No one else is allowed to make it except for her,” she added.
This year, students are eagerly preparing to gather around their tables, ready to enjoy the foods that define the season—and their stories are a reminder that Thanksgiving is about more than what’s on the plate. It’s about the connections we make and the memories we savor.
“I really like sweet potatoes with marshmallow on top,” Alejandro Munoz, a political science major, said. His family celebrates Thanksgiving by inviting friends and relatives over to their house. The tables are laden with traditional homemade meals, such as his favorite dish, which has graced his holiday dinner table for as long as he can remember.
“My favorite is pecan pie,” computer science major Francisco Sanchez said, choosing another sweet option. “I really like the sweetness and how [the pie] combines sweetness with a subtle dryness.” Pecan pie hasn’t always been a staple in the Sanchez household though. He distinctly remembers the one Thanksgiving where his family didn’t coordinate who would bring a pie, resulting in two people bringing one: pecan pie and, of course, perhaps the most popular fall-themed pie, pumpkin pie.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the shared love for food brings students together, reminding us that despite our diverse backgrounds and traditions, the holiday is a time to celebrate what unites us.
Whether it’s a cherished family recipe, a favorite dessert or a new dish added to the table, the flavors of Thanksgiving are deeply personal yet universally comforting. These meals are more than sustenance; they’re a reflection of the memories, values and bonds that make the holiday special. At its core, Thanksgiving is about gratitude and, for many, that gratitude is best expressed in the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
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