Student Involvement hosted its third annual Pickle Party on April 20 in the Falcon’s Nest, marking the final Maker’s Monday event of the 2025–26 academic year.
The Pickle Party began in spring 2024 after a social media intern suggested a pickle themed gathering. The idea quickly became a hit, and attendance has grown each year.
This year’s event drew about 230 students, the highest turnout to date. Upon arrival, students checked in and selected a mason jar from an assembly line before choosing a flavor—dill, spicy or bread and butter—to make their own pickles. Supplies and instructions were available at designated stations, and students filled their jars before moving on to other activities.
The event also offered a variety of pickle themed foods, including fried pickles, pickle salsa, pickle pico de gallo and pickle lemonade. A photo area was set up for students to document their creations.
Although attendance tapered off later in the evening, the Falcon’s Nest remained lively with conversation and plenty of sliced cucumbers.
Not all feedback was positive. On the anonymous social media app YikYak, attendees were asked to rate the event. Of the 71 responses, 59% expressed disappointment. Many students said they hoped for more activities, noting that once they filled their jars and plates, there was little else to do. Compared with other Maker’s Monday events, such as March’s vinyl painting session, the engagement time felt limited.
Student Involvement encouraged students to share their thoughts through its official satisfaction survey, available on Instagram. Events and Activities Coordinator Sylvia Kass said student input directly shapes future programming.
“I love getting ideas from students because they can tell me what they want to see, and we can try to make it happen,” Kass said.
She added that events like the Pickle Party naturally evolve over time. “Every year we get a little better at it. There are things that go well and things that could change and improve.”
Kass said she welcomes feedback and is excited about the possibility of expanding next year’s Pickle Party with additional activities.
While event planning shifts from year to year, Kass emphasized that Student Involvement’s mission remains consistent: events are created by students, for students.
“When I see students come to an event and smile and have fun with their friends, it makes what I do worthwhile,” she said.
Maker’s Mondays are one of several programs designed to help students connect with peers, explore interests and take a break from academic pressures. Kass encourages students to participate in events next fall and hopes to see strong turnout at Finals Fest in May.