Meal Plan FAQs
Why are first year and sophomore residential students limited to certain meal plans? Why can't we choose the 100-Block plan like juniors and seniors can?
All residents have access to multiple meal plan choices. Since many juniors and seniors spend much more time off campus completing internships, clinical, student teacher and other experiential learning experiences, they are provided access to the 100-block meal plan. We encourage students to take full advantage of the many dining options on campus, and provide feedback to Griffin Dining if there's something they'd like to see on the menu.
All-Access Plan and the Weekly 15 Plan swipes can be used at the Waldron Café or as cash equivalency at Starbucks and Valley Pizza. M.E.R.V. Bucks can be used at any of the dining facilities on campus, including M.E.R.V.’s Market, Byte & Costa Coffee in Maguire Hall, and the Byte coolers in the Library.
What is the cash equivalency amount for a meal swipe at Valley Pizza or Starbucks?
The cash equivalency is $7. Students can choose anything they want from the menu and use cash, credit or M.E.R.V. bucks if there is a balance due.
Why are commuter students being charged $50 for on-campus dining each semester?
Adding $50 in FLEX dollars to commuter student IDs each semester gives all students easy access to any of the dining options on campus. They can grab a coffee or a sandwich in between classes or join their friends in the dining hall without having to use their debit or credit card. The cost is included in each student’s financial aid eligibility calculation, and students can add more funding to their account anytime they want.
The funds can be used at any of the following locations:
· Waldron Café on the second floor of the Waldron Center
· Valley Pizza and Bread Co, on the first floor of the Waldron Center
· MERV’s Market in University Hall
· Byte & Costa Coffee in Maguire Hall
· The Byte coolers in the Library
If I don’t spend the entire $50.00 in a semester, does the remainder roll over to the next semester?
Yes.
What funding options are available to students who cannot afford these options?
Meal costs are included as part of a student's financial aid "cost of attendance" calculation. Depending on a student's level of financial need, meal costs may be covered by federal or state grants or institutional need-based aid or federal student loans. Students who need additional financial assistance for meals can connect with Catherine's Cupboard.
Where should I go if I have questions about my meal plan options?
Contact Griffin Dining at griffindining@gmercyu.edu.
