Thanksgiving is traditionally about food and football, but for many students, the holiday is a time to celebrate close relationships.

“I’m most grateful for my friends, family, and my boyfriend,” said Meghan Clark, a freshman Business Marketing major. “On my bad days, they are always there for me and they always cheer me up when I’m sad … especially my sister.

“Even though she lives far away, we talk on the phone every day when I get home from school,” she said. “I think it is so important to always be close with your family, no matter the distance.”

Most Americans know that Pilgrims celebrated Thanksgiving in 1621. It became a national holiday in 1863. Since then, it has been celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November most years. PNW’s Thanksgiving break is Nov. 23-25.

Through the years, it has become a day of large family dinners and long hours of televised football. 

“People should spend Thanksgiving with whoever you identify as family,” said Adrianna Alvarez, a sophomore studying Communication. “It doesn’t always have to be kin. Your family is who you make it.”

For some, the holiday is the one time during the year when loved ones gather.

“I’m most grateful for seeing all of my family at Thanksgiving dinner,” said Jocelyn Grafton, a sophomore in Business Management. “It is the only holiday where all of my family gets together, so I look forward to that day more than any other day of the year.” 

Keon Watts, a freshman studying Biology, feels the same.

“I am thankful for my family, but especially my mother,” he said. “She is always by my side, supporting me and making sure I am on my ‘A’ game.”

Lorial Leswewshi, a junior studying Computer Science, is just happy the people she cares about are not sick.

“I am most thankful that my friends and family are healthy this year,” she said. “Everyone had a hard time during COVID.”

Meanwhile, many students are grateful for new experiences.

“I am thankful for the opportunity of having friends and meeting new people since it is my first year here at PNW,” said Jennifer Covello, a transfer student who is undeclared. 

Kailah Gunn, a senior Psychology major, is looking ahead to her future prospects.

“I’m very thankful for the new opportunities afforded to me through PNW’s internship program,” she said.  “These are the stepping stones toward prosperity and a better life for me and my child.” 

However, for senior Nursing major Ashley Trice Thanksgiving means more than food and family.

“I’m most thankful to live in a country where I don’t have to worry or have the fear of airstrikes, bombings, or war,” she said. 

Katelyn Wiening and Leonard Powell contributed to this story.