'PB&J Time' Ensures Commuters Don't Live by Bread Alone

“Spread kindness to one person a day.” Those aren’t just words on the Commuter Lounge wall, it's the mission of “Peanut Butter and Jelly Time” hosted by Penn College’s Commuter and Community Assistants, student leaders who serve as allies for their peers residing in off-campus housing or commuting from home. For the Fall 2016 semester, the “PB&J Hour” is held from 2-3 p.m. every other Monday and Tuesday and is an opportunity for commuters to “chill out” with a free sandwich in the relaxing space of the Commuter Lounge, on the first floor of the Bush Campus Center. (New hours will be established soon for the Spring 2017 semester.) Gathering times are hosted by Commuter Assistants Noah L. English (landscape/horticulture technology: plant production emphasis) and Morgan N. Keyser (graphic design) and Community Assistants Stephanie M. Puckly (welding and fabrication engineering technology) and Josiah D. Stoltzfus (construction management).  "We strive to create that connection between students that live in the surrounding community and/or commute from a permanent residence,” Keyser said. “That's an important part of my job because having a connection helps you feel like a Penn College student, instead of a student attending Penn College. One way that we work on creating that relationship with students is through 'Peanut Butter and Jelly Time.' My favorite part of this program is to see students come regularly and to learn not only their name, but favorite sandwich, major, weekend plans and more. It’s really great to see someone smile because you know what they would like to eat or because you remember that story they told you two weeks ago. Connections can really help someone have a great experience at college.”