When the weather gets colder, and the days feel just a little too long, one thing that can instantly warm you up is a cup of hot tea, along with a scone or muffin.
Since 2010, Tea Time has been a beloved tradition at JMU, held each Wednesday on the third floor of The Union, from 3-5 p.m.
Tea Time offers more than just a beverage — it’s a moment to pause, breathe and connect.
“I love tea; it helps a lot with my anxiety,” said Marianne Gilly, a second-year graduate student in Kinesiology. “I think it’s really good because it’s really cold outside, but I usually come here before going to class and try to pace myself.”
Tea Time is also a place to socialize outside the classroom.
“For me, it’s quality time to spend with my friends,” said Haya Lulu, a first-year graduate student in Kinesiology.
On a busy campus such as JMU, where students and faculty often find their schedules packed. Tea Time can be a welcome diversion.
“I think that because I know that I have this moment in my schedule, it’s like an active pause that I have in my routine,” Gilly stated. “So, Tea Time is something different that I do, and it makes me happy just to talk to my friends during this time and grab some tea.”
The sense of connection is a big draw for attendees, many of whom found out about the event through friends. “She recommended me to come, so I’m really thankful,” Lulu said of Gilly.
Whether it’s discussing a personal matter or seeking academic advice, Tea Time provides an opportunity to connect with peers on a deeper level. “It’s a good time to spend with your friends who can hear you and advise you on what to do,” shared Lulu.
Evelyn Marzol, a second-year graduate student in the College Student Personnel Administration program and graduate assistant with Student Leadership and Involvement, which organizes Tea Time, shared her enthusiasm for the event. “I love it because I get to interact with students,” Marzol said. “I like the fact that I get to be interactive with everybody. There are people who come every week, and I get to build relationships, and that’s fun.”
Marzol attributes the event’s popularity to its flexibility and accessibility. “I think people like it because they can come when they have time, like in between their classes, or if they’re done with classes for the day, or if they need something before class. The fact that it’s free, I think it, lets students know this is accessible for everybody.”
There’s no better time to schedule Tea Time. It’s the perfect way to beat the winter blues. With a warm cup in hand and friendly faces all around, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, connected, and ready to take on the day.