Maria Soledad Zavala, a beloved team member at the Bullet hole, has made a lasting impact on the Gettysburg College community through her kindness and genuine connections with students, faculty, and staff.
“Every day, I can’t wait to get into work, get on my line, and start having conversations,” said Bullet Hole team member Maria Soledad Zavala, affectionately known as Sol. “Getting to know people is my favorite part of the job.”
Originally from Purauándiro, Mexico, Sol began working at the Bullet Hole in 2020, primarily on the sandwich line. While she is adored for making delicious wraps and subs, she is admired across our community for her kindness and congeniality.
Over the years, Sol has forged invaluable connections with Gettysburg students, faculty, and staff who pass through the College Union Building eatery.
“I really enjoy working with our dining staff. Every day is something different, but even when we are busy, we are always talking, joking, and having fun,” Sol shared. “I also love when students come to my line, smile, and ask me how I’m doing. I ask them about their classes, and they always ask about my family and my weekend plans.”
These interactions—though often brief—can be deeply meaningful. For many students, Sol has become more than just a friendly face on campus—she is a trusted confidant. “The students are so kind to me,” she explained. “Many of them speak to me in Spanish, and I respond in English so that we can both practice together. We learn a lot from each other. It makes me so happy.”
Sol’s positive impact on the Gettysburg College community is evident in the gratitude expressed by students who visit her line daily. One student, for instance, came to Sol in 2022 with her Spanish notebook, asking for help with homework. After graduating, that student returned to the Bullet Hole to thank Sol personally for her support, which helped her to succeed in the class.
“The people at Gettysburg are so nice to me,” Sol reflected. “This is my first job in the United States. It has been a very great experience.”
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By Brooke Askin ’25
Photos by McKenna White ’25
Posted: 12/17/24