Bethel students share their experience about their first semester with the new meal plan. “It is a lot better than last year, but I think there could be improvements.” Lauren Stensland said alongside her boyfriend, Ben Eller. | Photo by Bailey Meyer

New meal plan

Bethel University students reflect on the new meal plan options.

By Zac Villarreal, Bailey Meyer and Parker Rothenbacher-Schmittdiel | Royal Report

This year Bethel University launched a new approach to the meal plans available to on campus students. Unlike last year’s plans, the new meal plans give students more power and flexibility. Previously, the number of meals students could use consisted of plans that specified the number of meals students could use weekly. In the new plans, meals are by semester.

Meal plan transitions have gone smoothly. However, the new plan options are not without blemishes. For instance, many have excess flex dollars and meals at the end of the semester.

“I still have over $100 in flex,” junior Eric Ronning said.

The leftover meals and flex do not carry over to the next semester.

Students spend the last of their flex before Christmas break on baked goods and other items at Royal Grounds. “I like to see the look on my friends faces when I bring them a treat after they have been studying for hours.” Anna Salzmer said. | Photo by Bailey Meyer

“It’s very good but it can still be improved,” junior Victoria Snyder said.