Religion and spirituality are attention grabbers, especially in college. This year, Hanukkah and Thanksgiving fall together, pro­viding a unique type of celebra­tion. Hanukkah will be celebrated Nov. 27-Dec.5, with Thanksgiv­ing falling on Nov. 28.

Sister Susan Becker had much to say about students and spiri­tuality on campus, including her thoughts of the Hanukah and Thanksgiving crossover, focusing on the idea that the holidays are about tradition, family, and devel­oping a personal story.

“Everyone has a deep story,” Campus Chaplain Sister Susan Becker said. “We all have our per­sonal story, which makes things unique to us.”

A story is comprised of many components, including a specific detail that is important to one’s life. Sophomore Emily Weiss, finds that family celebration is one way to keep tradition alive. Since there isn’t a set break for students to celebrate with their families, individuals within the Jewish community are making the most of this break.

“The Jewish community is ac­tually excited about this,” sopho­more biology major Emily Weiss said. “Who doesn’t love a double celebration?”

Weiss went on to say that there is much excitement in her own home because her family loves to celebrate and engage in their traditions. While this holds true to her, there are instances where being in college may have the op­posite effect on students. Becker mentioned that some individu­als stray from spirituality in their young adulthood and begin to re­build their story later on. Howev­er, some do try to keep their fam­ily values alive, adding to their individual story.

“It is hard to stay true to tradi­tion while in college,” Weiss said. “I’ve experienced it first hand, but I make the most of it. Traditions will always stay alive as long as you have faith.”

Since there are individuals who may not be able to engage in the same celebrations with their families, Hillel, a student orga­nization for those interested in Jewish culture, will be hosting a dinner to celebrate Hanukkah and Thanksgiving. The event is open to all students, free of charge, and will be held on Dec. 5.

“It’s important that students are able to celebrate this wonder­ful time with others,” Weiss said.

Religion and spirituality have some sort of presence in life, based on the individual, with the purpose of guiding and adding to a story. Students can continue to add to their personal story, just as Becker and Weiss have.

Students that are interested in learning more about spirituality resources on campus, can contact Sister Susan Becker at sbecker_ [email protected].