College Freshman Sparks Friendship Through Cookie Sharing Ritual

A college freshman from Hillsborough, N.J., has turned an unexpected cookie-sharing ritual into a meaningful bonding experience during her first semester. Aliyah Merchant initially brought a box of cookies from Costco to campus as a memento from home but discovered its deeper significance when it became a catalyst for friendship and connection.

The Unexpected Gift

As she prepared for her move-in day, Merchant faced the emotional turmoil of leaving her home and family. In a moment of maternal insistence, her mother included a round plastic box of cookies in her belongings, despite Merchant’s reluctance to take it. The cookies remained untouched for the first few days of orientation, serving as a bittersweet reminder of home.

It wasn’t until a spontaneous gathering in the dorm lounge that Merchant decided to share the cookies. What began as a simple act turned into an evening filled with laughter and storytelling, quickly emptying the box and igniting new friendships. Reflecting on that night, Merchant acknowledges the joy the cookies brought, transforming an ordinary moment into a memorable experience.

A New Ritual Emerges

After the initial cookie-sharing event, Merchant faced a dilemma when it came time to dispose of the empty container. Her roommate suggested they keep the box and refill it with cookies from the dining hall, a proposal that at first seemed trivial. However, the idea blossomed into a cherished ritual, leading to regular late-night talks and shared experiences among friends.

The duo began to collect a variety of cookies, from chocolate chip to snickerdoodles, all while sneaking treats from the dining hall. The cookie box became more than just a vessel for snacks; it evolved into a symbol of community, comfort, and the transitional phase between high school and college life.

Merchant now reflects on the implications of that decision. “I would have lost more than just a container. I would have lost the rituals that grew around it,” she notes, recognizing how something seemingly insignificant provided a sense of belonging during a challenging time.

As autumn settles in, Merchant finds herself contemplating the balance between holding on and letting go. The changing seasons remind her of the importance of small treasures, whether they are memories, photographs, or even a simple box of cookies. These objects often carry more emotional weight than one might initially perceive.

Through her experience, Merchant has learned to appreciate the value of what she once considered “trash.” Sometimes, it is the little things that anchor individuals during periods of change, offering solace and connection in an ever-evolving landscape.

Merchant, who is majoring in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, is grateful for the lessons learned during her first few months at university. This seemingly trivial cookie box has become a cherished part of her college experience, exemplifying how the simplest gestures can foster deeper connections.