When I first heard about the changes to the dining plan last year, I have to admit I was jealous. After all, by that point, I had eaten in the cafeteria for two years and suddenly when I wasn’t going to have a meal plan, more options were available.

The biggest change cafeteria-wise is the Schroeder cafeteria. Back in my day, the main staples were “Schroodles,” cheeseburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches and fries. Since I now have to cook my own meals, I cannot even say how much of a luxury it was to eat in Schroeder once again.

Upon entering the building, it was immediately apparent that the atmosphere had changed completely. Over the summer, the once drab walls were sponge painted in Tuscan-style and the side doors that were once always closed were open and inviting.

Instead of the traditional cafeteria style buffet, food is now made-to-order and students have a choice of an entrée and a soup or salad. Since it was my first time eating in the newly renovated cafeteria, I chose to go with a turkey, Swiss, tomato and basil panini with home fries and a salad. Not only did it look delicious, but also it tasted amazing. Even though I liked the old Schroeder fries better than any other dining hall’s, the new recipe (without as much grease) was an improvement. I think I should go ahead and say it was because it really was good, not just because my normal peanut butter and jelly lunches are less than stellar.

Although I stick behind my panini, when I saw the lasagna and breadsticks, I almost wanted to put it back and pick up a plate of pasta. I have to admit I was always partial to the Schroodles, so the lasagna bar brought back fond memories of waiting in a long line to eat luke-warm noodles and marinara sauce for almost every meal sophomore year. Hopefully there will be a next time.

My response: two thumbs up. If I ever hear underclassmen complaining about their dining options, I will kindly remind them that when I was in their place, Schroeder did not have an Italian bistro and eating at Marquette Place was a special lunchtime treat. It was so good, that if I can’t quickly make a friend who can swipe me in regularly, I might have to consider buying a meal plan.

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