By Atasha Gabrielle P. Vito, BA-ELS-4, The Centralian Link Intern

The door of the College of Arts and Sciences Guidance Councilor office, where the cafe is held from March 11-13 and March 16-17.

From March 11 to 13 and March 16 to 17, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Guidance collaborated with the Peer Facilitators to launch the CARE Cafe—a safe and welcoming space for students to relax during midterm exams. The cafe was held on the second floor of the Old Valentine Building, in room OV215, the CAS Guidance office. It was open from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM, providing students with an opportunity to pause, breathe, and recharge amidst their exams.

The CARE Cafe, an emotional wellness initiative of CAS Guidance, ran a day before and during the midterms. Its goal was to promote emotional and mental health despite academic pressures. The initiative also encouraged students to interact with one another, sharing their perspectives on recent academic achievements and exam experiences.

The cafe offered free services to all CAS students. Attendees could enjoy a cup of coffee while socializing, with candies provided by the guidance office for those with a sweet tooth. Students could also watch movies, listen to relaxing music, or play games such as BINGO and UNO—activities designed to help them unwind and have fun. Fidget toys were also available for students seeking sensory stimulation. These offerings created a supportive environment where students could de-stress during the demanding midterm period.

All CAS students, regardless of year level or course, were welcome to visit the CARE Cafe on March 11–13 and March 16–17 in OV215, second floor of the Old Valentine Building. The cafe provided a moment to relax, reflect, and recharge between exams. Initiatives like this highlight that there are always people willing to listen and support students, demonstrating care and empathy even amidst academic challenges.