Thanksgiving in a Dorm

As holidays are approaching, the “feel” of Thanksgiving seems to be lacking in off-white dorms across campus. Maybe the feeling is due to the missing decorative pieces that moms put out on the coffee table or the scent of pies baking in the over. For some, it’s the fact that the air just isn’t as crisp as it should be. Whatever the reason, the need for holiday cheer is evident, especially for those who will not be able to return home for Thanksgiving.
Luckily for me, my small town humble abode is only an hour and a half drive away. For many of the students here at USC, going all the way home for Thanksgiving and then returning right after finals is both impractical and much too expensive. Others choose not to return home so that they won’t miss the Clemson game. So how will these students be able to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with just as much glee as those off us returning home to deep fried turkey and apple pie?
The most obvious way to get that feeling of Thanksgiving in your dorms is to decorate. Grab some roomies, head down to Dollar Tree, and stock up on all things fall. Don’t be shy with the inexpensive décor: the more the merrier. Decorating your dorm is one easy way to make the room feel more homey and lived in. If you don’t have the funds or transportation to take a trip to DT, you can always resort back to kindergarten crafts. Remember how fun and festive tracing your hand and turning it into a turkey was? Obviously the solution is not as up to par as most of us would like but it still triggers the feel of turkey day.
Another indicator of the season is smell. Cinnamon apple is the essence of fall. Take the easy way out and find an air freshener with cinnamon apple fragrances or get a pre-made apple pie next time you go to the grocery store. Another way is be baking cinnamon sticks in the oven. The smell will last for a while and prompt those holiday feelings.
Lastly, on Thanksgiving Day, don’t settle for Russell House. Make a homemade meal. I don’t suggest cooking an entire turkey or even making a turkey day feast. You can enjoy great food without much hassle. Take shortcuts by buying pre-made meals or frozen goods. Most of these items only require being heated up in the oven. If you are feeling a little more June Cleaver- like, search for recipes online that require few ingredients. It will save you money and they are usually easier to prepare. Also, don’t skimp on the dessert. Although nothing compares to grandma’s homemade pecan pie, there are pies sold in stores that are very tasty and inexpensive.
Just because you aren’t going home for the Thanksgiving doesn’t mean that you can’t get into the spirit of things. Invite some friends over, decorate your dorm, and plan a meal together. Although nothing compares to the Thanksgivings at home, Thanksgiving can still be a time of good food, good friends, and good pie.