By: Yunjeong Ryu
October 12, 2026
Students at Thiel College recently had the opportunity to show their appreciation for cafeteria and Bistro staff by leaving kind messages on sticky notes. The notes gave students a simple way to thank the staff members who interact with them throughout their daily lives on campus.
For Connie, a Bistro staff member, some of the messages were especially meaningful. Among the notes she received were messages expressing students’ appreciation and affection for the Bistro staff. One message that stood out expressed how much the students cared about the staff.
Another message was particularly meaningful to Connie because a student thanked her for taking the time to listen to her and for the hugs she had given her.
“What really stood out for me was the appreciation that they showed through those sticky notes,” Connie said.
For Connie, the messages meant more than just kind words written on paper. They showed her that students notice and appreciate the work that staff members do for them.
“To me they mean a lot because it shows that they do appreciate us, and they appreciate what we do for them,” Connie said.
The sticky notes also gave students an opportunity to express feelings that they might not always be comfortable saying in person. Connie said that some people have a difficult time talking about their feelings, so writing them down can make it easier for them to express themselves.
The event also helped create a stronger connection between students and staff.
“It gives them a chance to tell us how they felt,” Connie said. “Some people have a hard time talking about their feelings, so they got to write it down.”
Although the sticky notes were only displayed for a limited time, the messages left an impression on Connie. She said the appreciation shown by students was what stood out to her most.
For students, leaving a sticky note may have taken only a few moments, but for staff members, those short messages could serve as a reminder that their work is noticed.
Connie’s message to the students who participated was simple: “Thank you very much.”
She also expressed appreciation for all students, including those who did not leave a note. For Connie and the Bistro staff, the event was a reminder that their daily work is part of the student experience at Thiel.
