University of the Fraser Valley
Tea Time 2010

Tea Time helps cheer up starving students

Tea Time helps cheer up starving students

Tea Time 2010A cup of tea can warm the heart: add a cookie or two, mix with good conversation, and sprinkle with laughter, and you have Tea Time, an informal drop-in for UFV students that takes place every Friday, from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m at U House.

“We know it can be difficult for international students to adjust to a new environment and culture,” says Adaly Molina, UFV International’s Accommodation Liaison.  “That’s why we started Tea Time in September 2010: we wanted to create a space for both international and Canadian students to connect with each other and share ideas and resources.”

Students who drop by can choose from a selection of hot beverages and nibble on cookies or other treats, courtesy of Baker House’s manager, Tracy Mason. “Tea Time is a good opportunity to meet other students and hang out with them over a warm cup of tea,” says Hossein, a student who attends the drop-in.

Initially, the group met in Baker House. Students in residence often pointed out the fact that they had few meal options on the weekend, when both the cafeteria and U House are closed.

“Students in residence cannot have hot plates in their rooms,” Adaly notes. “As a result, many of them end up ordering out on the weekend. When I discovered that, I saw an opportunity to plan a meal as an activity for Tea Time.”

One Friday a month, students come to U House to cook and eat together. They contribute two dollars to purchase ingredients.  In October, they prepared lasagna; in November, a Mexican meal, complete with beans, rice, and quesadillas.

“It’s really fun and it’s something different,” says Anna. “It’s a change from pizza, popcorn and hot dogs.”

“As a starving student, I enjoy the affordable food,” Zack adds, “and it is fun when everyone gets involved in the preparation.”

“Tea Time is a perfect pick-me-up for the end of the week,” Adaly says. “People can support each other and talk about their concerns. Don’t miss it: it is open to any UFV student or staff who’d like to join us.”

For more information about Tea Time, contact adaly.molina@ufv.ca or call 604-864-4646