forward
Dear Jetsetter,
This is your boarding call for flight LL2526 en route to explore the diverse cuisines and cultural practices worldwide. Buckle up as we prepare to unlock your sense of wonder, bringing the essence of the global community to your dining hall. As we ascend into the skies of international exploration, you’ll find that we are more alike than different, with shared values that transcend borders. Through this adventure, we aim to celebrate the beauty in our diversity and find joy in our shared humanity, fostering a sense of unity that strengthens communities worldwide.
This month, we are reviewing our journey ahead, giving you a peek at what’s to come. Get ready to connect, learn, and taste as we highlight the shared values of community and culinary artistry. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to embark on this first-class adventure that‘s sure to inspire, delight, and bring us closer together.
Welcome aboard Luxe Jet, where the world is our runway and community is the destination!
As you take off into a new semester, fuel your body with snacks that do more than curb hunger; they support your immune system and keep you feeling your best. We are focusing on helping you choose foods that satisfy cravings while nourishing your body. Explore immune-boosting ingredients rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats that provide lasting energy and protection against seasonal stressors. Whether it’s a protein-packed snack for sustained focus or a vitamin-rich bite to keep you feeling strong, learn how smart snack choices can power you through the semester and the journey ahead.
Cheers to an incredible 2025/2026!
Luxe Leaders
Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality
A Jetsetter’s Guide to Global Etiquette
How to Eat Like a Local
Food unites us, revealing stories and histories through each bite. Different cultures offer distinct approaches to savoring their traditional dishes. As we set off on this journey of global exploration, this guide to dining etiquette will help you prepare your table manners for takeoff.
Exploring different countries is enriching, opening your eyes to the world’s vastness. While visiting new cultures, trying various cuisines offers a direct window into cultural connections. By experiencing new cultures, you can discover common ingredients and the best ways to enjoy the cuisine for the ultimate dining experience. However, while savoring different cultures’ food, it’s essential to learn how to engage with various cuisines to appreciate their rich traditions respectfully.
We want to provide you with a guide to dining as a tourist while immersing yourself in a new culture. With a brief preview to come, here are some common dining practices to consider:
Central and South America
The dining rules in this region utilize the continental style of dining. Unlike American dining styles that involve alternating hands for utensils, continental dining consists of keeping your fork in the left hand and your knife in the right, ready to cut when needed. It is also customary to keep your hands visible above the table by resting your wrist on the table with no elbows.
Greece In Greece, meals are seen as social events, so be sure to engage in the conversation at the table. Like in Central and South American countries, it is polite for guests to keep their hands visible during dining and share meals with others at the table. However, when passing dishes, be sure to pass all dishes to the left.
Italy Italians are well-known for their family-style dinners that foster community and connection. During meals, guests enjoy each bite while engaging in conversation. In the United States, Olive Garden stands out as a popular Italian restaurant, celebrated for its delectable dishes and the fun tradition of asking the waiter to stop when they add extra cheese. In Italy, however, requesting more cheese may be perceived as disrespectful to the chef or the original recipe.
Nordic Region
The food is as satisfying as the wellness traditions in the sweet and calming regions of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Because of their delicious meals and treats, finishing everything on your plate is polite. However, meals are usually three courses, so you are not expected to overstuff yourself.
Fiji In Fiji, meals are all about community and connection, with tradition playing a significant role. Always eat with your right hand; in their cultural context, eating with your left hand is considered unclean. When participating in communal meals, it is common courtesy to wait to be served instead of helping yourself.
West
Africa Sharing food from communal bowls is common when digging in, so hygiene and etiquette matter. While dining, though the food will be delicious, it is customary to keep chewing noises to a minimum at the table. Always accept food or drinks offered to you; it’s a sign of hospitality.
The Windward Islands
Dining in the Windward Islands is all about flavor and flow. Meals are seen as a leisure and social activity, so take your time and enjoy the conversation as much as the cuisine. Trying the local dishes shows appreciation for the culture.
Thailand In Thailand, spoons are the golden utensil. A spoon is used for eating, while a fork helps guide the food onto the spoon. Though chopsticks are used in many Asian cultures, they are not for rice dishes and are reserved for noodle soups in Thailand.
France Dining is treated like an art form, with every aspect of the meal taken seriously, including cheese cutting. Always slice cheese from the center outward to keep the wedge even. Bread is often placed directly on the table, not on your plate, and is usually used to help push food onto your fork, but remember, do not use it as a sponge!
Spain Spaniards’ dining is a multi-course and social activity, and it is common to linger at the table long after eating to thoroughly soak up the moment with loved ones. Unlike the United States, where tipping is expected, it is appreciated but not expected.
Your Student ID: A Discount Goldmine!
Consider your student ID and university email not just as identification for campus access, but also as keys to numerous discounts. MyUniDays.com is a popular resource for students seeking deals on fashion, beauty, food, and technology. Additionally, it’s an excellent platform for discovering hotel discounts from well-known brands like Expedia, Travelocity, and Trip.com. Simply sign in to the website with your student email address to unlock various deals.
While booking flights can often be costly, StudentUniverse.com has proven to be a valuable tool for revealing the best airfare offers. Since its inception in 2000, it has established itself as a leading travel booking site for students and young adults aged 18 to 25. By partnering with over 200 airlines globally, it offers exclusive discounts not available elsewhere. Furthermore, the International Student ID Card, which has been used since 1953, has helped students maximize their university experiences by providing affordable excursion travel abroad. Remember, many places offer student discounts, so don’t hesitate to inquire while you’re out!
Fly Smart: Best Time to Book and Travel!
To get the best deals and discounts, always book flights ahead of time. As noted by Travel and Leisure.com, “a good rule of thumb is to reserve domestic flights 2 to 3 months in advance and international flights over 90 days prior.” This advanced booking allows you to modify your seats or cancel your flight if needed, maximizing your chances of securing the best prices. Additionally, while looking for the best flights, monitor price trends using flight trackers on Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner to seize the best prices early.
Budget-Friendly and Safe Stay
When searching for ideal vacation accommodation, prioritize safety above all else. While a tempting deal can be attractive, ensuring your safety is crucial, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or abroad in general. When booking hotels, consider sharing a room with friends to decrease costs and secure discount rates. If you can’t find available discounts for your desired hotel, reach out directly to ask about student discounts. Most importantly, examine reviews for hotels and vacation rentals to gain insight into both the property and the surrounding area. Although this can be a lengthy process, it will ultimately prove beneficial. Lastly, use reliable websites and resorts for bookings, and make sure to share your travel details with loved ones.
Save on the Go!
Renting a car and daily rideshare use can quickly add up in cost. When planning your vacation, verify that your hotel or vacation rental is conveniently located near the activities you intend to do to cut down travel costs. Rome2Rio and CityMapper stand out as fantastic transit applications that facilitate easy navigation in a new city. Both apps are handy when traveling internationally; Rome2Rio provides insights on the quickest travel options and the best deals. Meanwhile, CityMapper offers an in-depth examination of a specific area, supplying a comprehensive guide for reaching your destination. If you opt for a rideshare, consider splitting the fare with your group to reduce expenses.
From Side Hustle to Empire
How Young Black Entrepreneurs Are Redefining Success
Today’s generation is reshaping what it means to succeed by exploring various career paths through side hustles, social media, and creative ventures. A 2024 study from Intuit.com found that “nearly two-thirds (66%) of Gen Z and Millennials (18-35) have started to or plan to start a side hustle.” The new entrepreneurship boom is led by people who want to be their own boss and are driven to follow their passions. This new area of entrepreneurship is founded on principles of freedom, authenticity, and flexibility.
In recent years, many young black entrepreneurs have transformed the side hustle concept into a launching pad for full-blown business empires. These ventures often start out small, between classes, after work, or on the weekends, and then transform into a gateway to longterm financial success and personal fulfillment in today’s economy.
Some of the most popular and effective side hustle paths have included creativity at their foundation, from photography and fashion to freelance design, and now content creation through videography. With the utilization of various social media platforms, young people can create anything they set their minds to from their smartphones. As content monetization has become easier, individuals can achieve flexibility and scalability with their personal brands.
The world of content creation continues to grow, with new young black creators gaining popularity one viral video at a time. Here are a few young Black creators maximizing their platform for longevity success:
Kahlil Greene
Kahlil Greene, famously recognized as the “Gen Z Historian,” graduated from Yale University with a history degree and made history as its first Black student body president. He rose to fame on TikTok and Instagram by producing educational content that explores neglected facets of American history, especially systemic injustice and Black culture. Greene has skillfully leveraged his platforms to inform and connect with a wide audience, turning intricate historical narratives into engaging and relatable stories suited for the digital era. @kahlil.greene
Mecca Evans & Jamila Bell
Mecca Evans and Jamilla Bell first connected as freshmen at Hampton University, where they were roommates until Jamilla moved to Georgia State. Despite the transfer, they maintained a close friendship. They continued to grow their platforms; Mecca with her funny story times, cultural insights, and Jamilla through her relatable skits and humorous takes on daily life. In 2024, they launched the Unhinged & Immoral podcast, establishing a digital space that highlights Black Girl Joy, friendship, and candid conversations. Together, they have created a multi-platform brand grounded in authenticity and humor. @meccavellii and @_iamjamila
DeAndre Brown
This Morehouse College graduate built his social media platform, blending creativity and entrepreneurship through skit-based content and educational videos. Popular on TikTok and Instagram, he’s known for his sharp wit and comedic takes on everyday life. He uses his platform to inspire other young creatives, offering behind-the-scenes insights into brand building while emphasizing the importance of business knowledge in the creator economy. @imdrebrown
Lynae Vanee
A multi-hyphenated force, poet, educator, and content creator, continues to maximize her platform to educate and empower minds to think about the world around us critically. a Spelman College alumna with a Master’s of African American Studies from Boston University, Vanee is best known for her “Parking Lot Pimpin’: series on Instagram and TikTok, she breaks down important topics happening in the country, creatively adding her commentary to the conversation. @lynaevanee
Still, there is an optimistic view of college among Gen Z, as the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center found in 2024 that postsecondary enrollment rose by 4.5% to about 19 million students, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The research center also found that freshman enrollment grew by 5.5%, and enrollment among 18-year-old first-year students increased by 3.4%. Although success is beginning to look different for Gen Z, with many choosing entrepreneurship or digital careers, college, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), is still considered an essential stepping stone.
In fact, HBCU enrollment continues to rise, with many campuses, such as Hampton University, Morehouse, Morgan State University, Bethune-Cookman University, and others, experiencing a surge in enrollment in 2024. As Gen Z redefines success on their own terms, blending education with innovation and passion, one thing is clear: the classroom and the content feed can coexist as powerful platforms for building the future.
Bite Sized Boosts
Snacks That Keep Your Immune System Thriving
Your immune system serves as your personal bodyguard, working tirelessly to defend against illnesses, infections, and anything that tries to slow you down. Like any great and fierce protector, it requires the right fuel to remain strong and alert. While snacking is often viewed as a quick fix to satisfy your cravings, it can also be a delicious way to support your health, especially when you choose foods that boost your immune defenses.
As of 2021, the National Institutes of Health reported that “86 percent of US adults consume at least some junk food on any given day.” Though it may be a quick and easy snack to find, overconsumption of ultra-processed foods with high sodium, saturated fats, and sugars can lead to various health problems. However, not all snacks are created equally; some go beyond just satisfying hunger and help fuel your body for the day ahead. The right foods can keep you energized, focused, and feeling your best by supporting your immune system from the inside out.
To help you find the perfect snack, we are exploring tasty, nutrient-packed options that do more than merely satisfy; they help your body stay in fighting shape.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, one of the most well-known immune-supporting nutrients, helps your body produce white blood cells and strengthens your skin’s defense system. Snacking on oranges, kiwis, and strawberries delivers a burst of fresh, tangy flavor and gives your immune system the reinforcement it needs to stay strong. To elevate your snacks, try adding them to smoothies or fresh juices.
Probiotic Picks
Zinc-Rich
Zinc is a nutrient that can be found throughout the body, from gene regulation to supporting skin health and metabolic function. It is also essential for wound healing and the sense of taste. Within the immune system, zinc plays a significant role in immune cell function and inflammation control. Chickpeas are a great source of zinc, along with other nutrients like protein and fiber. Roasted chickpeas are a delicious, crunchy, and savory snack that offers a quick pick-me-up throughout the day.
Your gut health and your immune system are more connected than you think. According to UCLA Health.org, about 70 percent of the immune system is located in the gut. The foods we eat can affect the healthy bacteria in the gut, which then affects the immune cells. Probiotics in yogurt help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which supports your body’s ability to fight off illness. The next time you’re in the dining hall or in search of a quick snack on the go, opt for a cup of yogurt to keep your gut healthy.
Antioxidants
When our body encounters factors like sunlight, air pollution, or tobacco smoke, it can produce unstable molecules that harm our cells. Antioxidants can neutralize these harmful molecules, helping to prevent significant cell damage. This is why it’s important to eat snacks such as blueberries and dark chocolate, as they are abundant in these protective compounds.
College life tends to be hectic, often pushing us to reach for any snack on hand. Before opting for an unhealthy option, consider the delightful range of immune-boosting snacks that can be just as satisfying as your favorite indulgences.
PackPackSmart,Green
Must-Have Reusable Travel
Essentials
Traveling can significantly impact the Earth as the emissions from the constant use of cars, trains, and planes can increase the effects of global warming. Every trip we take leaves a footprint, but we can help reduce it with mindful choices. One powerful way to make a difference is by rethinking how we travel and how often.
Beyond just cutting back, it is also about making smarter choices when we hit the road. When planning your next vacation, one of the easiest and most effective ways to make a long-lasting impact is by packing smart and sustainably and choosing reusable travel essentials that can help you stay organized while doing right by the planet.
Understanding what and how to pack can make planning your travels seamless. Here are some reusable travel items and packing tips to help you travel sustainably.
Reusable Travel Essentials
Reusable water bottles are one of the most essential travel companions, helping you stay hydrated while avoiding single-use plastic bottles that often end up in landfills or oceans. Many airports and public spaces now have refill stations, making it easier than ever to stay refreshed sustainably. For coffee and tea lovers, a collapsible coffee cup takes things to the next level. It not only saves space in your bag but also eliminates your need for disposable coffee cups that are often provided in hotel rooms. Disposable coffee cups may seem recyclable, but they are usually lined with plastic, which is hard to recycle.
Lastly, do not forget to opt for eco-friendly toiletry items! Solid hair care products and bars of soap are not only TSA-approved and leak-proof, but they also reduce the need for plastic packaging. You can also pair the items you need with reusable silicone containers, so your favorite products remain with you. Moreover, investing in a travel toiletry kit can be used on every extended stay or vacation, greatly impacting the planet.
How to Pack Smart and Travel Light
Smart packing focuses on efficiency, allowing you to bring essentials without excess bulk. Roll your clothes instead of folding them and place them in your suitcase. This method saves space and minimizes wrinkles, keeping everything tidy. Embracing a less-is-more approach can be very beneficial. Simplifying your wardrobe helps reduce decision fatigue and ensures you’re only packing necessary items.
Choose versatile clothing that can be dressed up or down. This will offer you options while reducing the total number of items you bring. It will also help with luggage weight, preventing additional fees and hassle at the airport.
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DINING EVENTS + AUGUST
At Campus Dining by Thompson Hospitality, we recognize that the transitions of college life can be overwhelming. Adjusting to new schedules, meeting different people, and acclimating to a new environment can add stress. Choosing what to eat should be a simple decision, and our campus dining program is designed to help you find food that meets your dietary requirements.
In recent years, we have broadened our food offerings for guests by introducing the Food Inclusivity program, which focuses on delivering a diverse, inclusive, and personable dining experience. While you’re away from home, you shouldn’t have to worry about your meal options; that’s why we offer a variety of choices tailored to your needs.
To help familiarize yourself with our options, here are a few ways we have expanded our Food Inclusivity program, one food item at a time.
Within the last decade, more people have adopted a plant-based and vegetarian lifestyle as these diets gained mainstream popularity in the 2010s. According to a report by GlobalData, it is estimated that in 2017, “six percent of US consumers now claim to be vegan,” compared to only one percent in 2014.
Keeping up with this growing change, we have woven plant-based meals and vegetarian options directly into the main cycle menu, ensuring a broad selection each time you attend the dining hall. Within City Market Innovation Kitchen, we have created the ALT vegan kitchen, a meal station specifically for plant-based and vegetarian items. Each time you visit the dining hall, there will be offerings to meet this dietary need.
Alongside ALT, our retail locations offer various options for a plant-based and vegetarian diet, from our smoothie brand, Go Go Fresh, to our new plant-based soul food kitchen, Sundays. These retail brands and food options are specifically curated with guests in mind to ensure food for everyone.
We recognize the various cultures of our campus community and want to ensure everyone feels included whenever they enter the dining hall.
For the last two years, during Ramadan, we have offered Halal items to those who observe this time of the year. With intentionality and care, we curate menus with items that make people feel seen and cared for. Though the dining hall is not home, we want it to feel like home, making sure we go above and beyond to provide an enriching experience.
To accommodate guests who are sensitive to gluten, we have reviewed our menus to better note which food items are gluten-free. Before putting items on their plates, guests can identify items without gluten by the GF icon next to the item name. If you are unsure, do not hesitate to ask the culinary team at your school to verify.
With eight stations at the city market innovation kitchen and over 10 retail locations, each with a plethora of specials, food options satisfy a variety of diets. Visit your university campus dining sites to stay updated on the weekly meal items and specials, and contact your executive chef with any questions about navigating the dining hall with your specific dietary needs.
This September, join us in the dining hall for our Food Inclusivity tours. Throughout the week, your culinary leaders will take guests around the dining area to explore the vast food options available. As our Food Inclusivity program is ever evolving, we hope that you are greeted with a sense of ease each time you enter the dining hall, knowing there’s food for you, too.
FEATURED RECIPE Watermelon Star Salad
Ingredients
ب 1 large watermelon
ب 1 tub of blueberries
Directions
ب ½ block of feta
ب 5 leaves of fresh mint
1. Cut the watermelon into quarters. Take each quarter and cut into long slices about ½ inch thick.
2. Press the star cookie cutter into the long slice to create the shape. Push the watermelon out of the cookie cutter and place the star into a large bowl. Repeat this step until you have used the entire watermelon.
3. Place the blueberries on top of the watermelon.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta on top.
5. Chop up the fresh mint and garnish the salad.
To store: Place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will be good for about 5 days.
Marketing Contacts
Daniela-Gabrielle Smallwood, Vice President of Marketing and Programming
daniela.smallwood@thompsonhospitality.com (571) 446–7430
Stacey Gibson, Director of Retail Marketing
stacey.gibson@thompsonhospitality.com (571) 524–8566
Editorial Staff
Gina Godwin, Creative Director
Yolanda Waters, Chief Editor and Writer
Heaven Smallwood, Editor
Tess Mazzucchelli, Graphic Designer