At the start of each academic year, approximately 5,400 students enter the meal plan program as part of their residential contract. Generally, another 150 to 200 non-resident students participate in the meal plan program. There are eight dining locations on campus with varying levels of service that are a part of the meal plan program. Variety comes in several ways other than choice of meal plan. The d cor differs at every location.
Menus vary daily, as well as by location.
Some locations have multiple menus featuring various ethnic foods, traditional foods, vegetarian entrees, and ever-popular fast foods. Takeout service and the ability to invite guests to dine on meal plans are two very popular features. During summer months, meal plans are available to summer school students. Various summer groups including academic programs, Summer Welcome visitors, athletic camps, and conferences use CDS facilities for meal service. CDS operates several retail operations including two food courts, three convenience stores, and one snack bar.