The smell of freshly prepared tamales filled the campus lunchroom commons. It drew students in before they even reached the table. Warm, savory aromas drifted through the space as Alpha Psi Lambda’s president and a former Alpha Psi Lambda member hosted its semester tamale fundraiser alongside the Software Engineering Club. They continued a long-standing tradition aimed at supporting members’ upcoming summer trip to Texas in June. 

This year’s trip carries added significance, as four members are expected to attend instead of two who usually attend. Making the fundraising effort even more essential. The organization has relied on events like this for years to help make travel opportunities more accessible for its members.

The fundraiser featured tamales and Jarritos. With pork, chicken, and cheese options for the tamales, each batch drew steady attention from students passing through the common.  Many stopped to purchase food after being pulled in by the strong aroma and reputation of the group’s previous sales.

Alongside tamales, the organization also sold a variety of Jarritos in many flavors. However, members noted that beverages were the hardest items to move during the event, with most attendees primarily interested in the tamales themselves. This is why they offered a meal deal of one tamale and one Jarritos for only $5 dollars. 

This meal deal was a great deal with the cost of each being $3. This one dollar savings helped to move the Jarritos drinks. 

Organizers explained that the group set an initial fundraising goal of $500, which would help offset a portion of travel expenses. Their broader goal is approximately $700, which would fully cover airfare for all participating members and allow them to attend the trip with minimal personal cost.

For Alpha Psi Lambda, the tamale fundraiser has become more than a financial effort, it is a recurring campus tradition that blends cultural food, student engagement, and community support. The event not only helps fund travel but also brings visibility to the organization and fosters connection within the campus community.

As June approaches, excitement continues to build among members preparing for the trip. The experience is expected to provide opportunities for networking, cultural engagement, and personal growth.

In the end, the fundraiser reflects more than just the sale of great food. It represents a shared effort. One carried by tradition, community, and the unmistakable scent of tamales moving through the heart of campus.