College Student’s Cookie Box Becomes Symbol of Connection

In a lighthearted yet poignant tale, college freshman Aliyah Merchant reflects on how a simple box of cookies transformed her transition to university life. Initially perceived as mere “trash,” the plastic container became a cherished symbol of connection among her peers.

From Home to Campus: A Journey of Comfort

As Merchant prepared to leave her hometown of Hillsborough, N.J., for university, her mother insisted on packing a box of cookies from Costco. Despite her reluctance, Merchant took the box with her, a decision that would soon yield unexpected rewards. For the first two days of orientation, the cookies sat untouched, a bittersweet reminder of home.

It was not until a spontaneous gathering in the dorm lounge that the cookie box was opened. Merchant recounted how sharing the cookies sparked laughter and stories among her new friends. “Within minutes, the once-overflowing box was empty,” she noted, highlighting how the cookies facilitated the formation of friendships during a time of significant change.

The Evolution of a Tradition

After the initial gathering, Merchant considered discarding the now-empty container. However, her roommate proposed a creative solution: refilling the box with cookies from the dining hall. What began as a simple idea quickly evolved into a cherished ritual. The duo began sneaking cookies wrapped in napkins, expanding their collection to include a variety of flavors.

This “cookie box” became a focal point for late-night conversations and bonding experiences, easing the transition from high school to college life. Merchant expressed her gratitude for the small act of keeping the box, stating, “I would have lost more than just a container. I would have lost the rituals that grew around it.”

As autumn unfolds, Merchant reflects on the dual nature of the season—of holding on and letting go. The changing leaves serve as a metaphor for her own journey, illustrating how small reminders of home can provide comfort during significant life transitions. The cookie box, initially viewed as inconsequential, emerged as a pivotal element in her college experience.

Ultimately, Merchant’s story underscores the importance of cherishing seemingly trivial items. “Sometimes keeping them, even when it seems pointless, gives it the chance to mean something later,” she concluded. In embracing both the sweetness of cookies and the warmth of friendship, Merchant discovered that the simplest things can anchor us in times of change.