Holiday fun ahead of finals

A series of holiday events helped ring in the season and provided a festive break leading up to final exams at Texas A&M School of Dentistry.

“I was just telling someone that this time of year is really stressful for students,” said third-year dental student Madeline Lynn. She was selling cookies at the holiday market.

“Just the ability to go home and bake for the market was great stress relief, because I love doing this,” she said.  “At the end of the day I get to help spread joy and cheer, and the holiday spirit.”

The market, organized by the Student Mental Health and Wellness Committee, benefited the school’s new pocket pantry. Students, faculty and staff were invited to come do some holiday shopping and make a donation of non-perishable food items to the pantry. The Music Society, a new student organization put together by third-year dental student Emily Vu, also held its first-ever holiday recital the same day. In addition to these activities, students were treated to snacks provided by alumni association, the Office of Student Affairs and the Alliance of the Texas Dental Association to help them “fuel up” for finals.

“We’ve brought together faculty, staff and students to show off their creativity and spread some holiday cheer,” said Dr. Alicia Spence, who helped organize the holiday market. “It’s been amazing.”