The Crimson's HUDS Survey

It is heartwarming to observe Harvard University Dining Services (HUDS) making it easier for students to submit their critiques and preferences in a more substantive and accessible way by relocating its student surveys to the Internet. The new survey guaranteed that students’ true opinions will be heard, because it allowed students to write in, not just numerically rate, their suggestions for dining improvement.

Though the deadline for the survey is over, we would like to offer HUDS our own more public suggestions, in order to highlight the most pressing gustatory needs of students.

A few quick points for starters: no more General Wong’s chicken, for reasons that should be self-evident. Honey mustard sauce should be given a permanent home next to ketchup and other condiments. Cheese nachos are simply a necessity, and must be provided more often. And the frequent absence from the cereal bar of one of the four basic food groups, Lucky Charms, is particularly troubling.

As members of a community steeped in New England culture, we stand strong in our endorsement for clam chowda. HUDS should also be holding lobster bakes at least once a month, if not every two weeks. While these meals may be expensive, HUDS could save money on utilities by not overcooking its meat and vegetables.

Finally, a University that is trying to prepare students to be the leaders of tomorrow should provide more opportunities for self-determination in the dining hall. What better way to do so than offer the option to make your own waffles every day?

The quality of life of Harvard students is dependent on the quality of the dining experience. HUDS’s commendable efforts to solicit and respond to student input —and perhaps our own humble suggestions—will keep the leaders of tomorrow productive, happy and, most importantly, well-fed.