We did it Class of 2019! We made it through Freshman year, and we’re back, ready for what Penn has to throw our way. We thought we knew the ins-and-outs of the majority of things here at Penn, but unfortunately, we’re faced with a new problem this year. It started to unravel the moment NSO died down and after President Guttmann hosted the Picnic for Sophomores. I think you know exactly what I’m talking about. Who knew food would be one of the biggest challenges this year? Let’s take a look. We no longer are required to have a dining plan; instead, we can be independent and explore the culinary world of food. However, lately classes picked up the pace and we’re realizing the convenience of those nostalgic Meal Swipes from Freshman Year.
It’s a mixed situation: some of us were excited to be cooking for ourselves, while others were going to explore new dining plans suited for an upperclassman. So now those off dining plans are wondering: (1) why was I excited to get off a dining plan and (2) this will be the Semester of Starvation. And those sticking around on the dining plan are thinking (1) when did everything become more expensive and (2) why can’t the 5% discount apply to Beefsteak?
Who thought that food would become our enemy?
Well, you’re not the only one. In fact, many people are on the prowl for those Free Food events. But there are so many ways to be innovative, fiscally smart, creative, and health-conscious of what you eat this upcoming semester. Eating doesn’t have to be so black and white; there are many options from dining plans and cooking to free food and food trucks. Keep an eye out and take advantage of them!
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