Holiday decorations are popping up in every neighborhood as students at Cosumnes River College anxiously await the four day Thanksgiving weekend. Many students said they are looking forward to watching football, pigging out, drinking beer and doing absolutely nothing.
CRC students interviewed said they don’t have the logistical issues of most university students. They don’t have to go home for the holidays; they are already there.
Most students said they live with their parents, kids, brothers, roommates or significant other. Many also work full-time while they get their education. A little time off is their only opportunity to relax or catch up on the laundry.
After spending a Thanksgiving in boot camp and another at his assignment in Japan, 29-year-old Veteran Marine Justin Henry, a communications major, said he is overjoyed to spend Thanksgiving with his wife, daughter and in-laws this year.
“When you’re with your unit for years you become extended family,” Henry said. Although there were 200-300 in his unit sharing a good meal and camaraderie, he said “I would rather have been with my wife and family.”
Even though the food was “pretty good” for the Thanksgiving in boot camp, his rookie drill sergeant made their lives hell, he said.
Some students, like Ashley Bryson, a 19-year-old general education major, said she will be working at the Sacramento International Airport on the holiday while travelers fly in and out. She said she likes her job but knows it’s going to be chaotic.
Nadya Gray, a 19-year-old nursing major, was waiting for her turn to donate blood while she talked about participating in the Thanksgiving Day event which benefits the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services.
“I think this is my third year,” Gray said. She said she walks the 5K in the Run to Feed the Hungry while her mom runs. She said her and her family helps feed the hungry while working up their appetites for their own potluck dinner featuring turkey and salmon. They also share the holiday festivities with a dozen-or-so family members. “We always squeeze in a board game or two like Taboo or Apples to Apples,” Gray said.
Although some students have their own traditions when celebrating Thanksgiving, some said they are creating new ones.
Laura Alaniz, 26-year-old general science major said she is usually with family for Thanksgiving, but not this year.
“I’m going to have friends over for a small Thanksgiving dinner,” Alaniz said.
While students said food is a major focus when it comes to the holidays, there are also many activities to partake in throughout the Sacramento area.
The Rio Bistro Café in the CRC cafeteria will be serving up a pre-Thanksgiving turkey-with-the-trimmings menu, in case you’d like to start your tryptophan coma a little early. You also might join other volunteers through Hands on Sacramento, the Volunteer Center of Sacramento or participate in the 3rd Annual Turkey Trot in Elk Grove.
All students interviewed wear many proverbial hats in addition to the obvious “student” hat; they are also grandmothers, baristas, veterans and fathers. Thanksgiving break, some said, gives them an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the important things in life.
“I’m thankful for my daughter,” Henry said with a twinkle in his eyes.“She’s the best friend who ever existed.” He also appreciates the turkey.