Hot Water For The Win: A Call for Warmth on Campus
Photo provided by Megan Silva
Why every student deserves a cozy cup to survive the winter blues
Ah, winter on campus. A time when everyone feels slower, colder, and (dare I say it?) a tad more miserable. For freshmen, it is the second semester–still uncharted territory, but not as exciting as the first. For seniors,it is the last stretch, where dreams of graduation mingle with the dread of final papers. Either way, the mood is as mixed as the weather forecast.
As an international student and freshman, myself, let me tell you, this cold is a whole new beast. The struggle is real when you’re trudging across campus, shivering alongside friends, desperate for something–anything–warm. A hot drink, warm food, maybe even a heated hug from the universe. But what do we find? Cold water. Everywhere.
Why is it that cold water is abundant and hot water is as rare as free parking? Sure, cold water is refreshing when the sun is blazing, but in this freezing season, it feels like a cruel joke. Walking into a dining hall or classroom, hoping for a warm reprieve, only to be met with an icy beverage is not just disappointing - it is heartbreaking.
This is more than just a matter of comfort. Drinking hot water or having access to warm drinks can make a world of difference. It is not just about warming our frostbitten soul, it is about health as well. The flu season is back, COVID is lurking, and the cold air is relentless. A little warmth could go a long way in keeping us alive!
Let us talk about solutions. Imagine this: hot water dispensers on every corner of campus. Better yet, hot chocolate machines scattered around like the caffeine stations we so dearly love. Imagine walking to class, fingers numb from the cold, and being able to grab a free cup of something warm. It is not just a nice idea, it is a necessity.
And for the skeptics out there: yes, hot water matters. In many cultures, it is a staple. As an international student, I can vouch for how comforting and grounding it is to sip on something warm, especially when you are thousands of miles from home. Yet here, even at breakfast, I am met with ice water. Ice water! Who thought that was a good idea in January?
So, here is my plea: to the powers that be, let us make this campus a little warmer, literally. Provide hot water, warm drinks, and maybe even a cozy place to enjoy them. If nothing else, let us ensure we are not forcing students to choose between staying hydrated and freezing their insides.
It is time to turn up the heat, Pacific. Let us make this winter less of a frostbite festival and more of a season of warmth, comfort, and yes, hot chocolate.