Breaking New Grounds

This summer, the Common Grounds, EMU's coffee shop, underwent some major changes to its physical setup and gained some additions to last year's menu.

Common Grounds, for those new among us, is the on-campus coffee shop. It is located in the basement of University Commons. Common Grounds is used for study breaks and to acquire much needed caffeine for long nights of study. It also has an ideal atmosphere for studying. Students often enjoy the change of scenery from their dorm rooms to read, study, or to simply meet to catch up and enjoy the company of friends.

In previous years Common Grounds has been seen by the EMU community as a place of relaxation, socializing, and a venue to broaden perspectives. While Common Grounds will hold true to its tradition, it has expanded and improved in many ways. From lighting to lattes, Common Grounds recently underwent a noticeable facelift.

As mentioned before, Common Grounds is the perfect location, to take a quick study break or to load up on caffeine. The menu also provides an array of coffees, smoothies, milkshakes, and soda pop as well as muffins, cookies, and bagels. This year some exciting new additions have been included in the menu. It now includes bagel bites, cake, and freshly scooped ice cream. To go along with these additions to the menu, Common Grounds also made some major changes to its setup. The counter, which was confined to the rear northwest corner, has been enlarged to engulf the entire Northern wall of the basement. Built into the spacious counter is a glass case that displays all the pastry options. Mellow droplights were installed over the counter, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Throughout the year Common Grounds hosts different events. In the past some of these have included talent shows, concerts, documentaries, and discussions. Common Grounds programming coordinator John Tyson comments, "Common Grounds will remain true to its name this year, as a place where bridges can be built amongst the vast diversity of students and people within the EMU community. Look forward to artists, performers, and dialogues that enhance our understanding of each other as we seek our purpose in today's world."

The Common Grounds structural and menu changes have enhanced the calm and artistic ambiance it was previously known for, and its improvements encourage students to drop by more often. Make sure to swing by the Common Grounds for drinks and a snack, and be sure to watch for upcoming events.