The Hillsdale Student Activities Board organized a “Picnic and Painting” event on Sept. 3 in the quad. The quad was filled with groups of two to four students chatting, painting, and snacking while soft music lulled in the background.
This “escape to the English Countryside,” as described in the Student Activities Office newsletter, was put on by SAB who provided painting supplies, blankets, and charcuterie boards.
“All of the SAB events were planned last year,” sophomore SAB member Gabrielle Lewis said. “With the rise of ‘cottage core’ on TikTok, we really felt like this would be a good event.”
In Lewis’ words, the ambiance of the event made an enjoyable atmosphere for everybody around.
Though she had to rush to the event after track practice, Lewis said she was happy with how the event turned out.
“SAB worked really hard to organize everything, and it looked so good,” she said.
Lewis is one of the many Hilldale students who are busy throughout the week with athletics, clubs, or other extra-curriculars. She said the event was the needed break from the usual day-to-day activities that keep students on their toes.
Seniors Aliya Crippen and Lily Van Wingerden mentioned their favorite parts of the event.
“It’s just a very chill atmosphere after a couple weeks of settling in,” Van Wingerden said.
Crippen said her favorite part of the event was “painting in fellowship.”
“I like that they’re throwing smaller events,” sophomore Rosemary Surdyke said. “It’s good for people who don’t like the bigger events.”
“Painting with your friends is very calming and also aesthetically pleasing,” sophomore Mary Ruth Oster said. “Also, the food is good.”