Issue date: 10/9/08 Section: Opinion

Got the late-night munchies?

Too bad.

Stores underneath 1920 Commons - including Subway, Starbucks, and the C3 convenience store - are now closing at 9:30 p.m. instead of midnight.

That leaves very few options for students hungry after 9:30 p.m., which in college-time, isn't very late at all. During the week, almost no Penn Dining establishments are open after that time. Some places, like Jamba Juice, even close as early as 6 p.m.

Luckily, most students either dump meal plans or choose smaller options by their sophomore year. But the change is especially unfortunate for freshmen, who are forced to purchase a full meal plan.

Administrators claim that the stores don't see much traffic after 9:30, but students used the area under Commons for studying during midterms and finals. The location was also convenient for those looking for a quick bite to eat or some coffee.

Dining officials should reverse course and keep at least one venue under 1920 Commons - like Starbucks - open until midnight. The University could also allow students to use Dining Dollars in the high-rise dorm cafes, which are usually open later.

Either way, College students need late-night food options. Penn Dining can't shut down after dusk.

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