Students have a week long break starting Friday November 17, and for many boarders, it’s their first opportunity to see their family in about two months. The Willistonian asked students from both near and far how they plan to spend the Thanksgiving break.

“There’s nothing better than catching up with my family,” said Gabby Jones ’18. ” I don’t see them often when I’m at school, so I love this time of the year.”

Gabby doesn’t spend time at her own home over Thanksgiving, though. Instead, she visits her relatives in Syracuse, New York. She grew up there, until she moved to East Longmeadow, MA.  She is currently in the process of moving to Westfield, MA.

Even if you aren’t eating delicious food on Thanksgiving, it’s a great time to visit friends. Thomas Thibault ’19 plans to do just that when he returns to Quebec City, Canada. For Thomas, the break is more about hanging out with friends than eating turkey and mashed potatoes.

“We had Thanksgiving at home about two weeks ago in Canada,” said Thomas. “For me this is just another week off.”

Another international boarding student, John Kim ’18, plans on spending his week off a little differently. Although he lives in Seoul, South Korea, John will spend the break in Virginia.

“I’m staying with a Williston alum,” he explained, “and I’m going to share Thanksgiving with their family. I don’t see the point of flying all the way home for five days, when I can save money and time by staying in the States.”

Although John said he enjoys going home, he can build culture while spending Thanksgiving in the country. Sure, to some it’s just a meal, but to many it’s the memories and bonding experiences that make the holiday really  important.

Kevin Lassman ’19 agrees with this idea. Thanksgiving is his favorite holiday to spend at home in Parkland, Florida.

“There’s nothing better than sitting around the table with all my family,” said Kevin. “I love school and being around my friends, but my family is the most important part of my life, and even though the food might be pretty good, the conversations we have are the best part.”