Photo Credits: Martha Sabariego
By Madeline Jacobs ’28
Staff Writer
Every Tuesday from 4 to 5 p.m. in Clapp Laboratory’s Lewine Room, faculty members from the Neuroscience and Behavior department of Mount Holyoke College provide snacks and activities for students at the Cortex Café, a meeting for students interested in Neuroscience and Behavior to come together and casually chat about the field.
It is an informal setting where students come and go as they please, but they are given the opportunity to chat with both faculty and fellow students interested in or actively pursuing neuroscience. Drinks and food are provided, coloring sheets are spread around and conversations flow naturally.
Assistant Professor of Neuroscience and Behavior Marta Sabariego shared the impact that Cortex Café can have on students. “It's a way to foster a sense of belonging … Cortex Café makes everyone feel like they’re part of the neuroscience community, beyond just the classroom setting,” Sabariego said.
Department Coordinator Jill Pietrantonio is responsible for organizing the meetings, and the rest of the department collaborates to brainstorm topic ideas and activities that would make an impression on the students.
Different faculty are in charge of hosting each week, taking responsibility for different activities and games. This allows students to get to know more staff in the department and provides a unique experience each week. Attendees can also hear about upcoming events and classes directly from the professors.
However, it is not a formal event and many conversations are initiated between students. It is intended to be a space where people of all ages and experience levels can come together, creating an unique atmosphere of questions and discussion from the perspective of those currently navigating the field. Advice about research opportunities, classes and professors often come directly from peers at Cortex Café, allowing more peer-to-peer guidance and connection.
Weekly meetings are short, being limited to just an hour, and there is no attendance commitment required from anyone. Students are advised to come as they wish and take refreshments, as this meeting is for them.
These types of gatherings are not uncommon on campus. Cortex Café is a strong example of these gatherings’ importance due to the influence on the students. The event’s continued success relies on the time and passion of the faculty members.
“It’s also a great chance for students and faculty to connect on a more personal level, building relationships that go beyond academics,” Sabariego said. “These gatherings encourage open dialogue and can make students feel more confident and invested in their field of study.”