We went about conducting the blog first by agreeing upon an issue we all felt strongly about on campus. We all had different feelings about the C4C and thought it would be interesting to compare what other people thought across campus. We thought this would be important to look into because the C4C has been such a large addition to our campus. We began by finding basic information on the C4C from housing and dining websites. We also took pictures of the dining hall in order to visually communicate to our audience its features.
We chose our sources based on their demographic. An upperclassmen's point of view would be key in seeing the necessity of having built it and what they thought it compared to previous years' choices. A freshmen does not have past years to compare to and might base their opinion solely on food quality. Freshmen are also the group of students who eat at the dining halls most often, so it is important to understand the choices they face when eating every single day. An RA gives a combination of both. They have the experience of eating in the dining halls in previous years but also have to eat there everyday. Sierra has a pending interview with the Corrdinator of Facilities at the C4C and Christina has a pending interview with an office worker from Housing and Dining Services. These two interviews will give insight into the human aspect of the building. For example, do kids give positive feedback, was research conducted to see what kids wanted out of the building, do other parts of the building get put to good use, etc.
Next time, we would like to have taken viedo footage of the dining hall. A video of what getting dinner is like at the C4C would give audiences a first hand account on what the crowds are like, how the stations physically work, and how large the building truly is.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
A Conclusion of Our Findings
After conducting surveys and interviews, we have come to the following conclusion. It seems as though the majority of upperclassmen, or atleast upperclassmen that do not regularly eat at the dining halls, are very impressed by the new Center for Community. However, as was evident from the responses we received from freshmen, all new things lose their luster after awhile. Upperclassmen felt pangs of jealousy as freshmen got to use the new building. The reason that the C4C seems so popular is that the building is new and many upperclassmen thought it had the most variety and the best tasting food. While it is true that the C4C has many options, due to the fact that students can choose food from different stations, the menus at the other dining halls change every night. Freshmen found that the C4C did not have variety because of this reason. Also, freshmen preferred the convenience of eating at dining halls that are closer to their dorms once the excitement died down. For example, many freshmen surveyed in Sewall preferred to eat there because it was so close for them. Many students also found that the amount of money spent to build the C4C was outrageous and could have been used in other ways to improve the campus.
However, it is also important to recognize opinions besides the students. Gerry Prete, a cook at the C4C, thought the dining hall was a positive addition to the campus because the stations allowed for more interaction amongst students and workers. Freshmen should also consider the fact that a lack of variety may also correspond to the fact that the dining hall is new. As workers get more comfortable with how the new dining hall will run, menus will change just like they do at the other dining halls.
Further, as our background research shows, the C4C is home to more than just a dining hall. Many student groups on campus have offices in the building. While there are mixed feelings on the building, the combination of foods inspired from different parts of the world and as a center for student services does seem to make it in theory a "center for community." It does get the seal of approval for ambience, amount of choices, and predictability. It does lack diversity at each station, an overall feeling of being a cost effective choice for CU, and upperclassmen feelings on being leftout from the excitement. It seems it isn't everybody's cup of tea. Try it out for yourself, and see if you think the C4C is really all that.
However, it is also important to recognize opinions besides the students. Gerry Prete, a cook at the C4C, thought the dining hall was a positive addition to the campus because the stations allowed for more interaction amongst students and workers. Freshmen should also consider the fact that a lack of variety may also correspond to the fact that the dining hall is new. As workers get more comfortable with how the new dining hall will run, menus will change just like they do at the other dining halls.
Further, as our background research shows, the C4C is home to more than just a dining hall. Many student groups on campus have offices in the building. While there are mixed feelings on the building, the combination of foods inspired from different parts of the world and as a center for student services does seem to make it in theory a "center for community." It does get the seal of approval for ambience, amount of choices, and predictability. It does lack diversity at each station, an overall feeling of being a cost effective choice for CU, and upperclassmen feelings on being leftout from the excitement. It seems it isn't everybody's cup of tea. Try it out for yourself, and see if you think the C4C is really all that.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
What Do the RA's Think?
Another Interview with Allison
Today, I interviewed Mahala Proch. Mahala is a junior earning a double degree in psychology and news editorial. She is an RA, or resident advisor, for Buckingham Hall in the Kittregde community. Judging from our survey results, it seems as though most of the older students prefer the C4C. However, I wanted to see what an upperclassman thought that does get the opportunity to eat at the C4C on a daily basis. Our interview went as follows:
A: Overall, what do you think of the dining hall on the CU campus?
M: They have a lot of options. I also like that all the dining halls have a salad bar and fresh fruit out. All the people that work at the dining halls are really nice.
A:How often do you go to the C4C?
M: At least once a day, since I live in Buckingham. Otherwise I go to the Farrand grab n' go, and I eat at Libby for breakfast.
A: Is there more variety at the C4C or other dining halls?
M: C4C.
A: What was your impression of the C4C at the beginning of the year compared to now?
M: Since I'm an RA, I was one of the first groups of people that got to eat there, and we were really excited about it. I ate there a lot in the beginning. I was obsessed with it, and I thought it was great. Now I think the lines are too long, and all the food is deep fried.
A: Do you like the C4C the best, or do you prefer other dining halls on campus? Why?
M: I like the Go Fresh grab n' go at Farrand. The food is organic. There is not as much variety, but there are healthier options.
A: How do you choose where to eat?
M: If I have to work at the desk at the dorms I get grab n' go. If we have staff dinners we eat at the C4C since it is right by Buckingham.
A: Do you think your opinion of the C4C varies from another upperclassmen who does not eat at the C4C everyday?
M: Definitely. I use all my munch money swiping my friends in because they think it is so good.
A: Having eaten at the dining halls for three years now, what do you like most about them, and what do you think could be improved upon?
M: They are convenient. I don't have to worry about doing my own dishes or cooking my own food. Being an RA, I get to eat for free. I know that I am going to eat fruits or vegetables at least once at every meal. If I had to cook for myself, I would probably eat cereal all the time.
A: What would change your opinion of the C4C?
M: I think that way too much money was spent on building it. I think it is an absurd amount of money that could have been spent another way. I think it could have been used to renovate the Rec Center.
A: How have you learned to eat healthy at the dining halls, and what advice would you give to a freshmen?
M: Watch portion size. I also eat slowly and make sure I have a colorful plate so I know I'm getting a balanced meals. If I have carbs at one meal, I'll eat meat at the next.
Today, I interviewed Mahala Proch. Mahala is a junior earning a double degree in psychology and news editorial. She is an RA, or resident advisor, for Buckingham Hall in the Kittregde community. Judging from our survey results, it seems as though most of the older students prefer the C4C. However, I wanted to see what an upperclassman thought that does get the opportunity to eat at the C4C on a daily basis. Our interview went as follows:
A: Overall, what do you think of the dining hall on the CU campus?
M: They have a lot of options. I also like that all the dining halls have a salad bar and fresh fruit out. All the people that work at the dining halls are really nice.
A:How often do you go to the C4C?
M: At least once a day, since I live in Buckingham. Otherwise I go to the Farrand grab n' go, and I eat at Libby for breakfast.
A: Is there more variety at the C4C or other dining halls?
M: C4C.
A: What was your impression of the C4C at the beginning of the year compared to now?
M: Since I'm an RA, I was one of the first groups of people that got to eat there, and we were really excited about it. I ate there a lot in the beginning. I was obsessed with it, and I thought it was great. Now I think the lines are too long, and all the food is deep fried.
A: Do you like the C4C the best, or do you prefer other dining halls on campus? Why?
M: I like the Go Fresh grab n' go at Farrand. The food is organic. There is not as much variety, but there are healthier options.
A: How do you choose where to eat?
M: If I have to work at the desk at the dorms I get grab n' go. If we have staff dinners we eat at the C4C since it is right by Buckingham.
A: Do you think your opinion of the C4C varies from another upperclassmen who does not eat at the C4C everyday?
M: Definitely. I use all my munch money swiping my friends in because they think it is so good.
A: Having eaten at the dining halls for three years now, what do you like most about them, and what do you think could be improved upon?
M: They are convenient. I don't have to worry about doing my own dishes or cooking my own food. Being an RA, I get to eat for free. I know that I am going to eat fruits or vegetables at least once at every meal. If I had to cook for myself, I would probably eat cereal all the time.
A: What would change your opinion of the C4C?
M: I think that way too much money was spent on building it. I think it is an absurd amount of money that could have been spent another way. I think it could have been used to renovate the Rec Center.
A: How have you learned to eat healthy at the dining halls, and what advice would you give to a freshmen?
M: Watch portion size. I also eat slowly and make sure I have a colorful plate so I know I'm getting a balanced meals. If I have carbs at one meal, I'll eat meat at the next.
A Graphic Analysis: Survey Results
All three of us gave out a total of 124 surveys, spanning five years of student years: freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, and graduate.
At first glance, it looks like an overwhelming number of freshmen preferred the C4C compared to the other grades. However, the balance of the number of each year was off depending on how we distributed them. It makes more sense to look at the results individually according to Allison's, Christina's, and Sierra's results. Each of us found huge outliers of kids who didn't respond or could not respond because they didn't have a meal plan, so they are not included but do make up for the total number of surveys.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Interviews by Sierra
Who: Ryan Coe
Major: Business
Year: Junior
I decided to see what an upperclassman's point of view on the C4C would be, so I asked my neighbor what his feelings are.
Me: Have you eaten at the new C4C yet?
Ryan: I've eaten at the cafe, not the dining hall.
Me: I ate at the dining hall once. I thought it was so much better than what we had last year. How do you feel about not being able to use the C4C like all the freshman can as part of their meal plan?
Ryan: I'm pissed! I think that it's pretty unfair. It's bull---.
Me: Was building the C4C a wise use of CU's money?
Ryan: Not really.
Me: What else could we have put the money towards instead?
Ryan: Improving the rec center. I know that they have plans for reconstruction, but my year definitely won't be able to use it by the time they finish it. They should have started it instead of the C4C.
Me: Would you consider buying a meal plan for the C4C?
Ryan: Probably not.
Me: Why not?
Ryan: Because I live off campus, I buy my own food. Well, maybe I'd get a 5 meals a week plan.
Me: What else could improve the building to encourage upperclassman use?
Ryan: Maybe some more sweet study space. I'd definitely go if there were cool study rooms.
Who: Juergen Friese
Position: Coordinator for Dining Facilities
Me: How long have you worked at the CU dining services for?
JF: 21 years
Me: What do you think the general student feelings are towards the C4C?
JF: Very positive. There is a strong sense of community since the building is used in so many different ways. Besides the student services offered, there are some very cool common spaces for student to hang out and study. The dining center is not only open to first year students living in Housing, but also the larger community. Munch Money, Campus cash and credit cards are accepted to allow the entire campus community to enjoy a meal.
Me. Is the C4C cost-affective? For instance, is the big price tag paying off in terms of use and positive feedback?
JF: I believe it is, especially since the building is funded through a combination of revenues from auxiliaries such as dining, parking services, and private donations.
The Center for Community has emerged as a critical part of the university’s strategic plan, Flagship 2030, which reflects the value we place on preparing students with a foundation of cultural knowledge, intercultural understanding, and community engagement.
In addition to the many potential CU donors that have toured the building, we have seen a strong interest from other Universities and institutions.
Me: Did the dining services team conduct research to see what students would like in the C4C before its construction?
JF: Yes. Many campus-wide focus groups allowed ample opportunities for input. We also contacted and visited many other Colleges and Universities about some of their recent projects to find out what works well for a campus community.
Me: Is there room for future improvements in terms of CU’s budget and the building’s space?
JF: We are always happy to hear suggestions on potential improvements.
Me: Do you believe that student use will go down once all the hype of the newness of the building fades?
JF: There will certainly be some fluctuation. Many factors play into the decision where to eat. Proximity to living quarters and/or work place; weather, available time; gathering with friends; type of meal expected (natural/organic, grab n’ go, sit down meal); variety of meal choices.
Overall, I expect that the Center for Community will remain a busy hub for many years to come.
Me: One last question. Have you tried the food there or do you regularly eat there? What’s your opinion on the food?
JF: I eat at C4C several times a week, partly because my office is in this building. As a trained chef, I have high expectations of all our dining centers and I continue to enjoy seeing how our food has evolved over the years. The various venues at C4C are doing an outstanding job keeping the food choices fresh and true to the recipes.
Major: Business
Year: Junior
I decided to see what an upperclassman's point of view on the C4C would be, so I asked my neighbor what his feelings are.
Me: Have you eaten at the new C4C yet?
Ryan: I've eaten at the cafe, not the dining hall.
Me: I ate at the dining hall once. I thought it was so much better than what we had last year. How do you feel about not being able to use the C4C like all the freshman can as part of their meal plan?
Ryan: I'm pissed! I think that it's pretty unfair. It's bull---.
Me: Was building the C4C a wise use of CU's money?
Ryan: Not really.
Me: What else could we have put the money towards instead?
Ryan: Improving the rec center. I know that they have plans for reconstruction, but my year definitely won't be able to use it by the time they finish it. They should have started it instead of the C4C.
Me: Would you consider buying a meal plan for the C4C?
Ryan: Probably not.
Me: Why not?
Ryan: Because I live off campus, I buy my own food. Well, maybe I'd get a 5 meals a week plan.
Me: What else could improve the building to encourage upperclassman use?
Ryan: Maybe some more sweet study space. I'd definitely go if there were cool study rooms.
Who: Juergen Friese
Position: Coordinator for Dining Facilities
Me: How long have you worked at the CU dining services for?
JF: 21 years
Me: What do you think the general student feelings are towards the C4C?
JF: Very positive. There is a strong sense of community since the building is used in so many different ways. Besides the student services offered, there are some very cool common spaces for student to hang out and study. The dining center is not only open to first year students living in Housing, but also the larger community. Munch Money, Campus cash and credit cards are accepted to allow the entire campus community to enjoy a meal.
Me. Is the C4C cost-affective? For instance, is the big price tag paying off in terms of use and positive feedback?
JF: I believe it is, especially since the building is funded through a combination of revenues from auxiliaries such as dining, parking services, and private donations.
The Center for Community has emerged as a critical part of the university’s strategic plan, Flagship 2030, which reflects the value we place on preparing students with a foundation of cultural knowledge, intercultural understanding, and community engagement.
In addition to the many potential CU donors that have toured the building, we have seen a strong interest from other Universities and institutions.
Me: Did the dining services team conduct research to see what students would like in the C4C before its construction?
JF: Yes. Many campus-wide focus groups allowed ample opportunities for input. We also contacted and visited many other Colleges and Universities about some of their recent projects to find out what works well for a campus community.
Me: Is there room for future improvements in terms of CU’s budget and the building’s space?
JF: We are always happy to hear suggestions on potential improvements.
Me: Do you believe that student use will go down once all the hype of the newness of the building fades?
JF: There will certainly be some fluctuation. Many factors play into the decision where to eat. Proximity to living quarters and/or work place; weather, available time; gathering with friends; type of meal expected (natural/organic, grab n’ go, sit down meal); variety of meal choices.
Overall, I expect that the Center for Community will remain a busy hub for many years to come.
Me: One last question. Have you tried the food there or do you regularly eat there? What’s your opinion on the food?
JF: I eat at C4C several times a week, partly because my office is in this building. As a trained chef, I have high expectations of all our dining centers and I continue to enjoy seeing how our food has evolved over the years. The various venues at C4C are doing an outstanding job keeping the food choices fresh and true to the recipes.
2 freshmen, 2 opinions
Christina's Interview
After I conducted my survey at Sewall, I decided to interview a couple of the people who participated with different opinions. Christina Ganoe, a freshmen living at Sewall, prefers to eat at the C4C while Alex Foley, another Sewall resident prefers to eat in her residential dining hall. Here are some reasons why:
Interview with Christina Ganoe:
Overall, what do you think about the dining halls in the dorms?
The dining halls have good food, but need more variety and fresh vegetables and fruit.
How often do you go to the C4C for dinner?
I go to the C4C about once or twice a week.
Which do you prefer and why?
I prefer the C4C because of all the variety, the only reason I eat at Sewall so much is the convenience.
Do you find more variety and options at the C4C or in the dorms?
I find more variety and options at the C4C.
What is your opinion of grab and gos compared to dining halls?
I love the grab and gos. It’s nice to be able to get something on the run but I would prefer them to be open on the weekends too. I think the weekends are when I would go there the most. The only grab n’ go that is open on the weekend is the Emporium at Farrand and I’m not sure I can even use my meal plan there, I usually use my munch money.
Do you think your location has to do with where you eat?
Yeah because I eat at Sewall everyday but when I feel like walking and the weather is nice I will go to the C4C. I’m just not looking forward to the winter because I think that I’ll go there a lot less when it is freezing out with snow on the ground.
If you lived closer to the C4C would you only eat there?
Absolutely, if I lived closer to the C4C I would only eat there.
Do you pick specific meals to eat at certain dining halls?
Not really, I change it up a little depending on what looks good to me at the time.
Overall, where is your favorite place to eat?
My favorite place to eat is the C4C. I find that even their grab n’ go has more options for me to choose from.
Interview with Alex Foley:
Overall, what do you think about the dining halls in the dorms?
They are good. I like that there are different meals everyday and different things to choose from.
How often do you go to the C4C for dinner?
Maybe once a month. I’ll only go if the weather is nice but most of the time I’m not in the mood to walk that far when I like Sewall just as much.
Which do you prefer and why?
I prefer the other dining halls because they serve something different every day. They’re also really close and I like how the specialize in one meal every night and they have new things all the time.
Do you find more variety and options at the C4C or in the dorms?
Probably the C4C because they have every type of food for every meal.
What is your opinion of grab and go’s?
I love them. Sometimes I prefer them to the dining halls just because they are so quick. They’re great if you have to eat in a hurry.
Do you think your location has to do with where you eat?
Yes, I do not like to leave the dorm when it is cold out. I would go to the C4C a lot more in the summer or beginning of the year when it was hot outside because I didn’t mind walking as much.
If you lived closer to the C4C would you only eat there?
Yes because I do not like to go too far to have to get dinner.
Do you pick specific meals to eat at certain dining halls?
No, I usually eat whatever they are serving. But at the C4C I usually eat the Asian food.
Overall, where is your favorite place to eat?
Sewall or Libby
Overall, Christina prefers to eat in the C4C because she finds that there is more variety there and the food is better. She really only seems to eat at Sewall if she has to because it is so close. Alex, however, prefers to eat in Sewall because she likes how convenient it is to go to and she finds that they have different foods every night.
After I conducted my survey at Sewall, I decided to interview a couple of the people who participated with different opinions. Christina Ganoe, a freshmen living at Sewall, prefers to eat at the C4C while Alex Foley, another Sewall resident prefers to eat in her residential dining hall. Here are some reasons why:
Interview with Christina Ganoe:
Overall, what do you think about the dining halls in the dorms?
The dining halls have good food, but need more variety and fresh vegetables and fruit.
How often do you go to the C4C for dinner?
I go to the C4C about once or twice a week.
Which do you prefer and why?
I prefer the C4C because of all the variety, the only reason I eat at Sewall so much is the convenience.
Do you find more variety and options at the C4C or in the dorms?
I find more variety and options at the C4C.
What is your opinion of grab and gos compared to dining halls?
I love the grab and gos. It’s nice to be able to get something on the run but I would prefer them to be open on the weekends too. I think the weekends are when I would go there the most. The only grab n’ go that is open on the weekend is the Emporium at Farrand and I’m not sure I can even use my meal plan there, I usually use my munch money.
Do you think your location has to do with where you eat?
Yeah because I eat at Sewall everyday but when I feel like walking and the weather is nice I will go to the C4C. I’m just not looking forward to the winter because I think that I’ll go there a lot less when it is freezing out with snow on the ground.
If you lived closer to the C4C would you only eat there?
Absolutely, if I lived closer to the C4C I would only eat there.
Do you pick specific meals to eat at certain dining halls?
Not really, I change it up a little depending on what looks good to me at the time.
Overall, where is your favorite place to eat?
My favorite place to eat is the C4C. I find that even their grab n’ go has more options for me to choose from.
Interview with Alex Foley:
Overall, what do you think about the dining halls in the dorms?
They are good. I like that there are different meals everyday and different things to choose from.
How often do you go to the C4C for dinner?
Maybe once a month. I’ll only go if the weather is nice but most of the time I’m not in the mood to walk that far when I like Sewall just as much.
Which do you prefer and why?
I prefer the other dining halls because they serve something different every day. They’re also really close and I like how the specialize in one meal every night and they have new things all the time.
Do you find more variety and options at the C4C or in the dorms?
Probably the C4C because they have every type of food for every meal.
What is your opinion of grab and go’s?
I love them. Sometimes I prefer them to the dining halls just because they are so quick. They’re great if you have to eat in a hurry.
Do you think your location has to do with where you eat?
Yes, I do not like to leave the dorm when it is cold out. I would go to the C4C a lot more in the summer or beginning of the year when it was hot outside because I didn’t mind walking as much.
If you lived closer to the C4C would you only eat there?
Yes because I do not like to go too far to have to get dinner.
Do you pick specific meals to eat at certain dining halls?
No, I usually eat whatever they are serving. But at the C4C I usually eat the Asian food.
Overall, where is your favorite place to eat?
Sewall or Libby
Overall, Christina prefers to eat in the C4C because she finds that there is more variety there and the food is better. She really only seems to eat at Sewall if she has to because it is so close. Alex, however, prefers to eat in Sewall because she likes how convenient it is to go to and she finds that they have different foods every night.
The C4C: "A Fresh Take on the Dining Hall Experience"
Allison's Interview with a C4C Cook
Today, I interviewed one of the cooks who works at the new dining hall at the Center for Community. His name is Gerry Prete, 34, and he cooks at the Kosher station. I wanted to find out how he liked working at the C4C. Specifically, how did having "stations" and live chefs change his experience of working at the dining hall. Here is how the interview went:
A: How do you think the food at the C4C compares to the other dining halls on campus?
G: It's a step up from the other dining facilities.
A: Is all the food at the different stations cooked daily?
G: I can't speak for all the stations, but I would say that it is about 50/50, half pre-made and half fresh. At the Kosher station, the soups are pre-made. So are the latkas and perogies.
A: What do you like most about the live cooking stations? Do they allow for a lot of interaction with the students?
G: I have sauteed at the Italian Cibo station, and besides burning my hand, I really liked it. There is more interaction with the students rather than just handing them their food. At the Kosher station, we serve them instead of them serving themselves.
A: How often are items on the menu changed? How do you decide what you will cook everyday?
G: The goal is by next semester to be on a 5-week schedule. (I asked Gerry what this meant and he said that every week there would be a new menu and after the fifth week the menu starts back to the beginning). Since it is a new dining hall, though, we are only on a 2-week schedule as opposed to the other dining halls on campus. The problem is, we can't switch the menus until every station is ready to do so. I would say by next year we will be on the 5-week schedule and there will be more of a variety of foods at the C4C.
A: Were you a trained chef or did you learn your techniques upon arrival?
G: I have had 15 years of experience working in restaurants and I also learned some things here.
A: Do you like working at a restaurant or at the dining hall better?
G: The dining hall. It's simpler.
A: Do you ever eat at the C4C?
G: Everyday.
A: What do you like about it? What is your favorite station?
G: The italian station and the grill. Having this new building is exciting. The ambience of the new place is cool.
A: Do you think this dining hall has been a positive addition to the CU campus?
G: Definitely. It breaks away from the normal dining hall monotony. Buffet lines are a thing of the past. It gives it a fresh take on the dining hall experience.
Gerry did recognize that by the end of the semester everyone grows sick of the food, and that towards the end of the year he starts to make more and more sandwiches rather than eating the food served at the stations. However, overall Gerry expressed a very positive attitude over the dining hall, both food and atmosphere.
Today, I interviewed one of the cooks who works at the new dining hall at the Center for Community. His name is Gerry Prete, 34, and he cooks at the Kosher station. I wanted to find out how he liked working at the C4C. Specifically, how did having "stations" and live chefs change his experience of working at the dining hall. Here is how the interview went:
A: How do you think the food at the C4C compares to the other dining halls on campus?
G: It's a step up from the other dining facilities.
A: Is all the food at the different stations cooked daily?
G: I can't speak for all the stations, but I would say that it is about 50/50, half pre-made and half fresh. At the Kosher station, the soups are pre-made. So are the latkas and perogies.
A: What do you like most about the live cooking stations? Do they allow for a lot of interaction with the students?
G: I have sauteed at the Italian Cibo station, and besides burning my hand, I really liked it. There is more interaction with the students rather than just handing them their food. At the Kosher station, we serve them instead of them serving themselves.
A: How often are items on the menu changed? How do you decide what you will cook everyday?
G: The goal is by next semester to be on a 5-week schedule. (I asked Gerry what this meant and he said that every week there would be a new menu and after the fifth week the menu starts back to the beginning). Since it is a new dining hall, though, we are only on a 2-week schedule as opposed to the other dining halls on campus. The problem is, we can't switch the menus until every station is ready to do so. I would say by next year we will be on the 5-week schedule and there will be more of a variety of foods at the C4C.
A: Were you a trained chef or did you learn your techniques upon arrival?
G: I have had 15 years of experience working in restaurants and I also learned some things here.
A: Do you like working at a restaurant or at the dining hall better?
G: The dining hall. It's simpler.
A: Do you ever eat at the C4C?
G: Everyday.
A: What do you like about it? What is your favorite station?
G: The italian station and the grill. Having this new building is exciting. The ambience of the new place is cool.
A: Do you think this dining hall has been a positive addition to the CU campus?
G: Definitely. It breaks away from the normal dining hall monotony. Buffet lines are a thing of the past. It gives it a fresh take on the dining hall experience.
Gerry did recognize that by the end of the semester everyone grows sick of the food, and that towards the end of the year he starts to make more and more sandwiches rather than eating the food served at the stations. However, overall Gerry expressed a very positive attitude over the dining hall, both food and atmosphere.
Monday, December 6, 2010
What Dorm Residents Prefer
Christina's Survey Skills
Being a freshman, I know that I prefer eating at Sewall because I think it has more variety as the menu changes every night. I liked the C4C at the beginning of the year, but perhaps I went there too often in the beginning of the year as I got sick of the food and found that the selection never changed. However, I know that some of my fellow dorm mates disagreed with my logic so I decided to run a survey and find out which dining halls were the most popular.
I interviewed my fellow residents of Sewall. Out of the 50 surveyes I handed out, I received 42 back. Overall there were 39 freshmen and 3 sophomores.
All of the 3 sophomores preferred the C4C to any dining hall.
18 of the freshmen preferred eating at Sewall, 12 of which because of the convenience of it being just downstairs from where they live, and 6 stating that it had better food because of the nightly menu changes.
However, there were also 18 freshmen who preferred to eat at the C4C. Of these freshmen, 7 stated they liked the food better at the C4C and 11 said there are more options and variety.
2 of these freshmen preferred Farrand to any dining hall, 1 because it was new to them and the other because they liked the organic and fresh food that the new grab n' go offers.
In addition to this, 1 student said that they preferred to eat at Libby because they thought the food was the best there and it wasn't too far from them.
Overall, it seems as though the majority of the students who prefer to eat in their own residence hall appreciate the convenience and notice more of a variety. However, the students who are willing to make the walk across campus seem loyal to the C4C.
Being a freshman, I know that I prefer eating at Sewall because I think it has more variety as the menu changes every night. I liked the C4C at the beginning of the year, but perhaps I went there too often in the beginning of the year as I got sick of the food and found that the selection never changed. However, I know that some of my fellow dorm mates disagreed with my logic so I decided to run a survey and find out which dining halls were the most popular.
I interviewed my fellow residents of Sewall. Out of the 50 surveyes I handed out, I received 42 back. Overall there were 39 freshmen and 3 sophomores.
All of the 3 sophomores preferred the C4C to any dining hall.
18 of the freshmen preferred eating at Sewall, 12 of which because of the convenience of it being just downstairs from where they live, and 6 stating that it had better food because of the nightly menu changes.
However, there were also 18 freshmen who preferred to eat at the C4C. Of these freshmen, 7 stated they liked the food better at the C4C and 11 said there are more options and variety.
2 of these freshmen preferred Farrand to any dining hall, 1 because it was new to them and the other because they liked the organic and fresh food that the new grab n' go offers.
In addition to this, 1 student said that they preferred to eat at Libby because they thought the food was the best there and it wasn't too far from them.
Overall, it seems as though the majority of the students who prefer to eat in their own residence hall appreciate the convenience and notice more of a variety. However, the students who are willing to make the walk across campus seem loyal to the C4C.
Friday, December 3, 2010
More Student Opinions
Allison's Survey Skills
I surveyed students around the UMC, or University Memorial Center. The students were made up mostly sophomores, juniors, and seniors. I asked students what year they were, if they ate in the dining halls, which was their favorite if they did, and why. 50 students were surveyed. This group was comprised of five freshmen, 10 sophomores, 12 juniors, 18 seniors, and five graduate students. Among these students, only 30 ate at the dining halls either on a regular basis or occasionally with friends. The 20 students who did not eat at the dining halls were made up of the following:
1 freshmen
4 sophomores
5 juniors
9 seniors
1 graduate student
These students did not eat at the dining halls either because they do not have a meal plan or they ate in the dorms only their freshmen year. Some students chose to eat at the UMC's Alferd Packer Grill instead because it is conveniently located and accepts Campus Cash.
Among the students that did eat at the dining halls, the majority of them preferred the C4C. Only one senior and one junior preferred Sewall, noting that their food "has always been awesome." The students who preferred the C4C were made up of the following:
4 freshmen
6 sophomores
6 juniors
8 seniors
4 graduate students
I observed the following trends as to why students preferred this dining hall over others:
1. They have the largest variety of food to choose from
2. The quality of food is better
3. They like the design and its convenient location to their classes
4. It is new and clean
5. It incorporates their favorite parts of other dining halls that were taken away, such as Cheyenne Arapahoe's excellent Grab-and-Go.
I surveyed students around the UMC, or University Memorial Center. The students were made up mostly sophomores, juniors, and seniors. I asked students what year they were, if they ate in the dining halls, which was their favorite if they did, and why. 50 students were surveyed. This group was comprised of five freshmen, 10 sophomores, 12 juniors, 18 seniors, and five graduate students. Among these students, only 30 ate at the dining halls either on a regular basis or occasionally with friends. The 20 students who did not eat at the dining halls were made up of the following:
1 freshmen
4 sophomores
5 juniors
9 seniors
1 graduate student
These students did not eat at the dining halls either because they do not have a meal plan or they ate in the dorms only their freshmen year. Some students chose to eat at the UMC's Alferd Packer Grill instead because it is conveniently located and accepts Campus Cash.
Among the students that did eat at the dining halls, the majority of them preferred the C4C. Only one senior and one junior preferred Sewall, noting that their food "has always been awesome." The students who preferred the C4C were made up of the following:
4 freshmen
6 sophomores
6 juniors
8 seniors
4 graduate students
I observed the following trends as to why students preferred this dining hall over others:
1. They have the largest variety of food to choose from
2. The quality of food is better
3. They like the design and its convenient location to their classes
4. It is new and clean
5. It incorporates their favorite parts of other dining halls that were taken away, such as Cheyenne Arapahoe's excellent Grab-and-Go.
What Some Students Think
Sierra's Survey Skills
I tried my hand at conducting surveys around campus today. I had a pile of 50 with the set of questions my group agreed upon. The questions included what age the person is, if they ate at the dining halls or not, which one they prefer, and why it is their favorite. I got back 32 surveys after distributing them around the outside of the C4C and Ferrand grab-and-go. A small sample size, but it provided the following information:
1. Upperclassman with meal plans preferred the C4C to the other dining halls.
2. Freshman preferred other dining halls to the C4C.
3. People who preferred the C4C said it always had a variety of choices, and people who liked the other dining halls liked the menu rotation choices.
4. The favorite dining hall outside of the C4C was Libby, specifically for breakfast.
5. 7 out of the 20 kids who favored the C4C said it was because of the idea of the building (including location and because it is new) while the remaining fraction based their decision off of the quality of the food (including variety and convience).
There were 6 freshman, 14 sophomores, 9 juniors, and 3 seniors in my sample. After personally talking with a few of the kids I found that the C4C was mostly popular due to the atmosphere of the building and the sense of community. I personally am jealous of all the freshman who have more dining options now than I had!
I tried my hand at conducting surveys around campus today. I had a pile of 50 with the set of questions my group agreed upon. The questions included what age the person is, if they ate at the dining halls or not, which one they prefer, and why it is their favorite. I got back 32 surveys after distributing them around the outside of the C4C and Ferrand grab-and-go. A small sample size, but it provided the following information:
1. Upperclassman with meal plans preferred the C4C to the other dining halls.
2. Freshman preferred other dining halls to the C4C.
3. People who preferred the C4C said it always had a variety of choices, and people who liked the other dining halls liked the menu rotation choices.
4. The favorite dining hall outside of the C4C was Libby, specifically for breakfast.
5. 7 out of the 20 kids who favored the C4C said it was because of the idea of the building (including location and because it is new) while the remaining fraction based their decision off of the quality of the food (including variety and convience).
There were 6 freshman, 14 sophomores, 9 juniors, and 3 seniors in my sample. After personally talking with a few of the kids I found that the C4C was mostly popular due to the atmosphere of the building and the sense of community. I personally am jealous of all the freshman who have more dining options now than I had!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
FOOD
The Center for Community is an incredible building, but what really interested us in exploring the new addition to campus was the food offered at the new dining hall. Housing and Dining Services states that, "this state-of-the-art dining center offers an exciting fusion of community and cultural dining experiences. This location offers 8 restaurants that create a culinary experience for customers that both educates and engages the senses." --http://housing.colorado.edu/dining/locations-hours/center-community-dining
Here are the food stations featured in the dining area of the Center for Community:
1. Asian Shi Pin
-Includes Eastern favorites such as stir-fry and dim sum, all created by a wok chef.
-Hours:
Breakfast Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Lunch and Dinner Monday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
2. Black Coat
-This "restaurant" features creative culinary creations and trends that "emphasize small bites of intense flavors."
-On Saturdays and Sundays, omelets are made to order til 10:30 a.m.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m.-2:00p.m. and 5:00-8:00 p.m.
4. Italian Cibo
-Includes brick-oven pizzas, homemade pastas, and build-your-own pasta bowls made fresh before your eyes by Center for Community chefs.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Buffet line closed from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday same hours.
5. Kosher
-Meals following Kosher guidelines
-Hours:
Monday-Thursday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Friday from 11:00-2:00 p.m.
6. Latin Comida
-This station includes made-to-order burritos and other latin dishes. Fresh tortillas are also made right before your eyes.
-Hours:
Lunch and Dinner Monday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Monday-Sunday buffet line closed from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
7. Persian ghaza
-This station features a flatbread bar with dips, spreads, and preserves for dipping as well as hand-made kebabs and stews.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Sunday same hours
Saturday closed
8. Sushi
-Hand-rolled sushi made from fresh vegetables, meat, and seafood.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.n.-2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday closed
9. Smoke 'n Grill
-Includes comfort food, and items such as ribs, pork loin, and Mahi Mahi cooked on the smoker.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
10. Wholesome Fields Salad Bar
-60 feet of fresh fruits, vegetables, soups, salads, and lunch meats.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
11. Deserts
-Features everything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth including cakes, pies, fresh-baked goods, and an ice cream sundae bar.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
--http://housing.colorado.edu/dining/locations-hours/center-community-dining
Here are the food stations featured in the dining area of the Center for Community:
1. Asian Shi Pin
-Includes Eastern favorites such as stir-fry and dim sum, all created by a wok chef.
-Hours:
Breakfast Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Lunch and Dinner Monday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
2. Black Coat
-This "restaurant" features creative culinary creations and trends that "emphasize small bites of intense flavors."
-On Saturdays and Sundays, omelets are made to order til 10:30 a.m.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and 5:00-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m.-2:00p.m. and 5:00-8:00 p.m.
4. Italian Cibo
-Includes brick-oven pizzas, homemade pastas, and build-your-own pasta bowls made fresh before your eyes by Center for Community chefs.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Buffet line closed from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday same hours.
5. Kosher
-Meals following Kosher guidelines
-Hours:
Monday-Thursday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Friday from 11:00-2:00 p.m.
6. Latin Comida
-This station includes made-to-order burritos and other latin dishes. Fresh tortillas are also made right before your eyes.
-Hours:
Lunch and Dinner Monday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Monday-Sunday buffet line closed from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
7. Persian ghaza
-This station features a flatbread bar with dips, spreads, and preserves for dipping as well as hand-made kebabs and stews.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Sunday same hours
Saturday closed
8. Sushi
-Hand-rolled sushi made from fresh vegetables, meat, and seafood.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.n.-2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday closed
9. Smoke 'n Grill
-Includes comfort food, and items such as ribs, pork loin, and Mahi Mahi cooked on the smoker.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
10. Wholesome Fields Salad Bar
-60 feet of fresh fruits, vegetables, soups, salads, and lunch meats.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
11. Deserts
-Features everything you need to satisfy your sweet tooth including cakes, pies, fresh-baked goods, and an ice cream sundae bar.
-Hours:
Monday-Friday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
--http://housing.colorado.edu/dining/locations-hours/center-community-dining
Background Information on the C4C
- According to the Center for Community's website, "The Center for Community reflects the value we place on preparing students with a foundation of cultural knowledge, intercultural understanding, and community engagement." --http://www.colorado.edu/centerforcommunity/
- Cost: $84,432,939
- The Center for Community features:
- A new dining area with seating for 900 persons
- Student Services including Career Services, International Education, Counseling and Psychological Services, and the Buff One Card Office.
- Student Advocacy Center
- Meeting Rooms
- Underground parking facilities featuring 375 spaces and above ground parking featuring 50 spaces
- 323,000 gross square feet
- Designed to achieve LEED-Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for environmental sustainability-certification
- Features of the new Dining Area:
- Seating for 900 people
- Cooking styles from different regions of the world
- Ten cooking stations that all feature live chefs
- Walk-up meal pick-up
- A late night eatery in which students can get pizza, paninis, subs, salads, and desserts
- Outdoor dining area
- Coffee, drinks, pasteries, breads, and croissants all homemade from the Bakery located downstairs
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