BY JAHNAVI PRADEEP ’23
Graphic by Jieyu Feng ’22
The Grab n’ Go station in Blanchard Campus Center provides students with a place to get a quick lunch and snacks for the road. When the Dining Commons are full, closed or there is no time for a full meal, the Grab n’ Go proves a great alternative. While providing us with an easy option to grab food, the Grab n’ Go has limited options and portions for students and is too small to fit current student needs and demands.
When I stand in a long line at the Grab n’ Go, I watch the tiny place swarm with several students and do not know if I will make it in time to pick something up or if there will be any options left when I get there. This is worsened by the fact that I am a vegetarian and have only the option of a measly peanut butter and jelly sandwich or fruit box accompanied by a drink and yogurt or chips.
The amount of food that can be taken with one swipe of a OneCard is limited. The portions don’t even make up an evening snack. With one swipe, I can’t take both a bento box and a sandwich. How is only one sandwich enough to satiate my hunger? Many times, I find my hand reaching out for another extra item or going to the vending machine to pick something up. I know that it is a dollar or two extra going away from my OneCard as I swipe for the millionth time. At the end of the month, I have swiped my OneCard one too many times when I know the dining hall can provide me with this same food.
Isshita Fauzdar ’23 agrees that the Grab n’ Go should be expanded and more leverage should be given to students.
“Since I have already paid for this food, I should be allowed to take more than the current limit,” she said.
Either there should be more options provided at the Grab n’ Go, or the amount of food taken with one swipe should be increased. The options for those who do not eat meat should be expanded, the amount of food per person increased and food should be easily accessible.
When there is such an abundance of food that is offered in the Dining Commons, the options of the Grab n’ Go should be increased. Students should be able to fill their stomachs and not be hungry through classes.