Fed Up and Under-fed with the Cafeteria Hours

The Monarch Cafeteria closing so early in the day does not foster a healthy learning environment.

By: Kaia Mann, Opinion Editor

Photo Illustration by Astrid Cortez

Students looking for a bite to eat on campus can get half of a soggy Subway sandwich for almost $15, a bag of Cheetos full of preservatives, or a freshly made, full meal at the Monarch Cafe, just as long as it is before 1:30 pm when the cafeteria unjustly closes. 

When open, the cafeteria is a great option. Those who arrive on campus early enough can choose between a variety of lunch and breakfast options, all-American burgers, deli sandwiches, Mexican food, or pizza. However, if your class falls anytime after 1:30, the small overpriced Lion Cafe or one of the questionable vending machines are the only options left.

The food available later in the day leaves something to be desired in both price point and variety. The Lion Cafe is a glorified walk-in vending machine and acts more as an extension of the bookstore than a credible option for a meal. With approximately 2 out of 5 of the rundown, sun-damaged vending machines on campus out of service, students would be better off taking a five-minute walk down to the local donut shop for their sandwich of choice. 

Many students are forced off campus if they hope to get a decent cost-effective meal. Other students simply do not eat.

The Monarch Cafeteria closing so early in the day leaves out the entire population of students with afternoon or night classes. Workers say they close so early because there is little to no demand after the fact, but the Monarch Cafe has reportedly never been open after 1:30. This begs the question, how do they know there is no demand for the cafeteria to be open later if students and faculty were never given the chance to utilize it? 

Most studies agree that nutrition and dietary patterns influence cognitive function, playing a critical role in the mental performance of young adults. Going hungry can severely alter academic performance and cause an increase in aggression. Overall having a balanced and consistent diet improves one's ability to focus and think critically.  

Having mostly junk food available leads students down unhealthy paths. It is easier and cheaper to grab instant noodles and a soda than to go somewhere off campus. The lack of healthy food after 1:30 creates poor eating habits that can be hard to shake.

If the foundation of a successful education starts with diet, Valley needs to offer students and faculty substantial and fresh food all day long.