<p>When our S was weighing two competitive screenwriting programs, one at SUNY Purchase, the other in California (Chapman U), unable to visit either, he had to rely upon what others said and what he could read. When he read terrible reports of “virtually inedible!” food slop like an elementary school cafeteria at SUNY Purchase, and then read how Chapman students were delighted with their charming selection of Mexican, Asian, wraps, etc., it really made him weigh that. Food was practically the dealmaker/dealbreaker, as the money came up nearly equal due to need plus merit aid out in California. He’s a teenaged BOY and the thought of being stuck with unbearable food for 4 years really affected his decision. That SUNY Purchase program is very competitive and it was hard to tell them (when they called, surprised to be turned down), “I heard your food is terrible” and he gave no real reason to the questioner. But food did factor into his decision role, given two very fine programs in a specialty major. It just felt petty to him to discuss it like that. (I have no pride, by comparison).</p>
<p>My alma mater (Oberlin) began food co-operatives where the students determine the menu with professional guidance, then shop, prepare, serve and clean up their own meals, saving the parents on boarding costs. THen if you don’t like the food, well, you made it yourself so how much can you complain?<br>
While there were only 4 such co-ops in the l960’s, the movement has grown to some 20 co-ops, including vegetarian, vegan, kosher. The conventional dining hall cafeterias are also available, for a bit more money. These food coop savings to families equate to an on-campus job (8-10 hours weekly) yet are available to any student regardless of family income, high or low. If curious to learn more to apply to your situation, google up “Oberlin Student Cooperative Association” or OSCA. </p>
<p>Food and the environment (waste management practices around the kitchen, local vendors as FIrefly menioned in the previous post, etc) matter a lot to this generation. Colleges and unis are wise to pay it more attention. With a bit of thought and creativity, you can improve food offerings tremendously. </p>
<p>As a mom, I’m only concerned that the delightful Chapman food will be better than my home cooking. With my older 2, I enjoyed the chorus during home visits of “Mom, I miss your food at campus!” I don’t think I cook as well as what I’m reading about now, but maybe it’ll inspire me to improve at home :)</p>
<p>Re: U. of Buffalo, where I live now, I was delighted to read that account in Post #2. That campus always takes negative hits for its blah architecture, so it’s good to hear the food and learning are pleasing to that family!</p>