Student Profile
Name: Melanie Steinhardt ‘13
Major: Classical Studies
Involvement on campus: Chum's Coffeehouse Manager
What is your favorite part of working in Chum’s? Inventing food items, definitely. Recently invented: The B-Boy (a spinach grilled cheese where the top half is actually egg-in-a-basket), and the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Milkshake. Also, I love watching people's reactions to drinks like the Nietzsche shake and Terror Shake.
How has this involvement impacted your time at Brandeis? Chum's is a pretty social place, and I've met some of my best friends by working there. And because Chum's hosts lots of performance groups, I've gotten to see the Brandeis step team (So Unique) at least twelve times, not to mention great poetry readings like the one done by Brian Slepian '14 just last week at our own coffeehouse.
Do you have a favorite memory of your time with Student Activities or at Brandeis? In 2011, we hosted a party called Pandamonium. Everyone dressed as pandas and we donated all of our tips for that month to the WWF. Since that time I have never stopped being a panda.
Cholmondeley's Coffee House
Cholmondeley's (Chum's) is Brandeis' student run coffee house and late-night snack bar, tucked away in the historic Castle and named for a bloodhound belonging to the campus photographer. Throughout its history, it has played host to, among others, Tracy Chapman, the J. Geils Band, Joan Baez and the first American performance of Genesis.
Hours of Operation
Monday through Thursday 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Friday and Saturday 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Closed on Sunday (unless booked for a performance)
What's Happening? Who's Performing?
Below is the calendar of happenings for Chums. If you click on the event you can add it to your own Google Calendar so you don't forget to attend your favorite event!
How do I Book Chum's?
Any Union accredited organization can book chums for a $50 rental fee. Additional charges may occur if events take place outside of operating hours. Groups can not charge admission to events, but donations can be collected. To reserve Chum's for your coffeehouse, concert, or any other event, please click HERE.
What's on the Menu?
Chum's is currently working to provide more local and organic food to their menu. Look for that coming soon. All your late night munchies will still remain (mozz sticks, nachos, grilled PB & J and more). Lizzy's ice cream is always a favorite and let the staff know if there is a certain flavor you want to see! And what would a coffee house be without coffee, there is a variety of espresso drinks made to order, as well as fair trade coffee. The staff is always looking for new and creative ideas so be sure to let your Barista know what you want!
Fan Fun
Check out this video that was made by a former Chums Fan!