OPERATIONS
CHARTWELLS HIGHER ED’S LATEST PROGRAM AIMS TO MAKE FRESHMEN FEEL WELCOME ON CAMPUS
FIRST YEAR EATS PROVIDES FRESHMEN WITH MONTHLY EVENTS CENTERED AROUND MAKING LASTING, MEMORABLE CONNECTIONS.
F reshmen are the focus of Chart- wells Higher Ed’s newest pro- gram. First Year Eats is geared toward helping college students feel welcome on campus during their first year of school through monthly special events and partnerships. Each participating school develops a customized plan for the program that best meets the needs of their students and offers their own unique events. George Washington University, for example, set up a themed meal series that incorporated international cultural elements, while Wichita State University hosted a Coffee Walk and Talk where Chartwells WSU dining interns led students on a tour of campus dining options. Current freshmen involved with First Year Eats will also have a chance to act as ambassadors for the program when it enters its second year. According to a recent study conducted by the foodservice provider, BY BENITA GINGERELLA
Freshmen will be able to participate in monthly events as part of Chartwells' First Year Eats program.
62% of students say that dining helps them spend more time and connect with friends. Chartwells Higher Ed hopes that First Year Eats will offer freshmen a way to make lasting connections during the start of their college career. “We strive to not only meet the
culinary needs of students but also their academic and social needs,” Lisa McEuen, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education, said in a statement. “The adjustments to campus life for students starting their college career can be daunting and stressful, and we want to do everything we can to make them feel a part of the campus community through First Year Eats. The program will foster a welcoming and inclusive experience while helping students be their best selves in and out of the classroom.” As the year progresses, participating schools will conduct surveys to gain a better understanding of the program’s impact and how they can improve it. First Year Eats is currently available at 11 schools and will expand to additional campuses in the coming months.
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The adjustments to campus life for students starting their college career can be daunting and stressful, and we want to do everything we can to make them feel a part of the campus community through First Year Eats.”
-Lisa McEuen
Q1 2024
FSD QUARTERLY
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PHOTO COURTESY OF ADOBE STOCK
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