Kean Students Prepare for Thanksgiving Post-Pandemic
By Adaora Nnakwe | Published November 17, 2022
The holiday season is here. It’s about that time to wear flannels and uggs again. The clocks are set back, the leaves have fallen, and pumpkin spice lattes are back on the menu. This year on Thursday, Nov. 24, Thanksgiving will bring families together once again to join around the table for a grand holiday feast.
Whether the main course involves turkey, chicken, ham with gravy, or even non-traditional dishes, there’s a lot to be grateful for leading up to the final months of the year. Students and staff should all take this break to relax and reflect on the importance of Thanksgiving.
Ricardo Pierrevil, a sophomore majoring in physical education, expressed how he’s looking forward to the holiday break and celebrating Thanksgiving this year.
“I’m looking forward to being around family and friends and all the different varieties of food from different cultures,” Pierrevil said. “Thanksgiving will be less stressful with all the vaccines. People are more aware and careful.”
With people more aware of the health precautions such as wearing a mask while indoors, social distancing, and washing their hands, this year is expected to make the holidays feel like life is adjusting to the new normal.
Daniel Osorio, a junior communications media and film major, says that covid isn’t the biggest concern.
“I definitely believe that during Thanksgiving this year, covid is going to be less of a factor. People will be able to have bigger thanksgiving celebrations while still feeling safe,” Osorio said. “That’s what I’m looking forward to this year, being able to slow down and have a long relaxing weekend with family and good food.”
In the last two years, the pandemic put a hold on travel and family gatherings due to travel restrictions and COVID-19 guidelines. According to the CDC, all travelers are recommended to be fully vaccinated before traveling domestically and internationally. Students must take health precautions during the holiday season to avoid the transmission of infectious viruses and diseases.
However, students will be looking forward to the Thanksgiving break to enjoy making memories with family and friends. Pierrevil says that he’s prepared to celebrate the break and didn’t have extended family members that missed out last year.
The important thing to remember about Thanksgiving is to be grateful and thankful for what we have and the people in our lives that matter the most.
“I am thankful for my family and friends who support me and are there for me,” Pierrevil said.