Overview

Take a Student to Lunch (T.A.S.L.) & Student Initiated Dining Experiences (S.I.D.E.), supported by the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Student Life, continue to be outstanding opportunities for outside-the-classroom Student-Educator connections.

The programs encourage faculty, staff, and students to invite each other for a meal, coffee, or snack. This time provides an opportunity to get to know each other better, discuss projects, events, or activities, and foster a shift away from the traditional teacher-pupil dynamic, encouraging the development of lasting mentor/mentee relationships.

Take a Student to Lunch (T.A.S.L.) Student Initiated Dining Experience (S.I.D.E.)
Who is it for? T.A.S.L. is designed for Faculty/Staff members to invite students to lunch or coffee with the purpose of having meaningful discussions or providing mentorship. S.I.D.E. is for students who are interested in creating a personal connection or pursuing mentorship with a Faculty/Staff member.
How many times a year? Each faculty/staff member may use the program up to five (5) times during the Fall and Spring semester, and up to two (2) times each Winter term. Students are welcome to use the program up to two (2) times during the Fall and Spring terms and one (1) time each Winter term.

How it works:

No advance planning needed — simply present your Phoenix Cards to the cashier at a participating dining location and let them know which program you are using. There is no charge for the meal for the participating student or faculty/staff member. Once you receive your food or drink, find a spot to sit and connect with each other for casual conversation. This is an excellent way to forge meaningful relationships and mentoring connections.

Group outings are also allowed, but please keep in mind that each student counts towards the uses per semester.

After your connection, complete a short experience survey to reflect on the outcomes of your interaction.

Participating Locations

A group of student sit outside, gathered around a table with a professor. They are engaged in conversation and sharing coffee or tea.

  • Acorn Coffee Shop
  • Clohan Hall
  • Irazu Coffee Shop
  • Lakeside Dining Hall
  • McEwen Dining Hall
  • Steep’d

Please contact Jackson Mabon via email or at (336)-278-6629 with any questions or concerns.