As students settle into their routines this semester at Southern University and A&M College, they are exploring the various dining options available on campus. Several eateries accept “Jag Cash,” including Chick-fil-A, Prime Grill, and the buffet in the union, which features two stations with menus that change daily and weekly. For a more home-cooked feel, students can use meal swipes at the Mayberry and Dunn dining halls. The differences between these two halls have sparked a lively debate among students, resulting in a large spread of opinions on which one is better. Many are advocating for improvements in food quality, presentation, and overall dining satisfaction.
Each week, students rely on their meal swipes for access to the dining halls, while those opting for other food choices use Jag Cash, which is replenished at the end of the semester. This system prompts students to weigh the benefits of each dining hall against their culinary preferences. Genesis Prosper, an agricultural science major from New Orleans, expressed his frustration with both halls, stating, “They both need to do better. The food quality should be improved, and it should look more edible.” He believes that better food presentation and quality resonate with many students seeking improved dining options.
In the Mayberry dining hall, six different stations offer a variety of choices. “By the Slice” serves various pizza styles and sometimes cinnamon breadsticks, while the grill features burgers, fries, and occasionally chili cheese hotdogs and grilled cheese. The Stir Fry/Mongolian Grill allows students to create made-to-order stir fry meals, selecting from an array of vegetables and choosing either noodles or rice, with options for chicken or shrimp. Southern Soul is a student favorite, showcasing Cajun-inspired meals that highlight the flavors of Louisiana. Weekly themes like Red Bean Monday, Taco Tuesday, and Fried Fish Friday draw students to Mayberry, especially since its convenient location in between classes. Makylah White, a Nursing major from Tallahassee, Florida, champions Mayberry for its friendly staff and fresh options. “The staff is friendlier, and I feel like the food is fresher with more choices,” she explained. Her positive experience highlights the differing perspectives students have regarding the two dining halls.
In Dunn dining hall, similar options to Mayberry are available, though it lacks a stir fry station and features a home-cooked meal option called Comfort Zone. The atmosphere at Dunn tends to be more fast-paced, and its convenient location near student housing makes it easily accessible for those living nearby. Unlike Mayberry, Dunn dining hall also offers “late night” hours, which is a great perk for students attending night classes or those who get hungry late in the evening. Tylon Kent, a Business Management major from Port Allen, clearly prefers Dunn. “In my opinion, Dunn is better than Mayberry,” he stated. “The food is seasoned differently, and there’s a variety that I enjoy there that you don’t find in Mayberry.” He also mentioned that he frequently receives larger portions at Dunn, making it his preferred choice.
As Southern University offers a variety of food options it seems that Dunn attracts those looking for variety and generous portions, as Mayberry draws in students who prioritize freshness and a friendly atmosphere. Many students are increasingly calling for enhanced dining and customer service experiences. With a mix of preferences and suggestions, it’s evident that both Mayberry and Dunn have opportunities for improvement to better serve their diverse student population.
