On Wednesday, May 7, the Department of Statistics welcomed undergraduate and graduate students to its End-of-the-Semester Ice Cream Social on the South Lawn of Snedecor Hall. The event ran from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. and offered students a well-earned break before finals, along with a chance to connect and celebrate the close of the spring semester.
Students enjoyed a variety of ice cream flavors provided by Iowa State University’s own Creamery and were invited to share their summer plans on sticky notes posted to a colorful board. Some plans were adventurous—surfing in Hawaii, hiking in Oregon, traveling to Italy and Greece—while others were more personal, like “having our first baby,” starting a John Deere internship, or learning to sing.
One of the most popular notes, written in different handwriting and colors, simply said: going home. Whether that meant reuniting with family, visiting old friends, or just taking a break in a familiar place, it was a heartfelt reminder of how much home continues to matter, even as students build new lives and communities here.
The social drew a strong turnout and served as a joyful send-off to the semester, bringing together members of the department for connection, reflection, and plenty of ice cream.
