There are numerous locations throughout the school where students can eat lunch. From the cafeteria to the outdoor courtyard, students have very different options to choose from. Each spot offers something unique that separates it from the others. Which spot offers the best overall lunch experience? Let’s find out!
Cafeteria
The cafeteria is the most practical option for student lunch consumption. The cafeteria’s only purpose is to provide students with an area to eat lunch, so it is obviously the most popular among students. Students also purchase lunch in the cafeteria which provides an additional bonus for this great choice.
Classrooms
Although many teachers do not offer their classrooms to students during lunch periods unless the students have make-up work, classrooms are another viable option. They offer an area where you are able to socialize with your friends and also gives you an opportunity to finish homework or study. While it may be difficult to find a classroom that is open during lunch, they are a great option for students who want a quieter place to eat lunch with friends, do homework and study.
Hallways
The hallways are an interesting spot to eat lunch because there are few chairs and it is difficult to socialize with more than a few people. It does have its advantages as it offers a place almost as quiet as the library, but the library does not allow food. Overall hallways are a decent option for lunch and offer a great place for students to study in a quiet environment.
Courtyard
The courtyard is a great option because it is a vast area and has many different places to sit including benches, tables, stairs and more. In addition, it is incredibly nice to sit outside during spring and fall because of the beautiful weather. Although this is not a feasible option during winter, it offers the experiences of the cafeteria in an outdoor setting.
Under the Atrium Stairs
When walking through the atrium towards the library during lunch periods, the group of students under the atrium stairs is hard to miss. Although this seems like a poor choice, it does have its advantages. There are now chairs under the stairs and countertops with power outlets. In addition, there is a nice view of the courtyard to enjoy while doing work and eating lunch. This is a surprisingly popular spot for lunch and it is easy to see why.
Even though going out to lunch is one of the most popular choices, it will not be included in the ranking because it is not at the school and not an option to some students.
Final Ranking
- Hallways
Hallways are the worst place to eat lunch because they lack comfortable seating options and there are few places where many students can gather. Also, if students are being too loud in hallways teachers can then ask them to leave. While the hallway is not necessarily a bad place to eat lunch, there are certainly better options.
- Courtyard
Although the courtyard could be at the top of this list on a nice day, there are many days when this is not a plausible option. The temperature during winter makes it virtually impossible to stay outside. Even in spring and fall there could be rain, too much humidity or too much sunlight. The courtyard is definitely a good choice, but the inconsistency in weather lowers it on the list.
- Cafeteria
The cafeteria is the most practical option for eating lunch and has many benefits. It offers enough seating for large groups of people and you can be as loud as you desire. It also has lunches that students can purchase. The cafeteria is a great place to eat lunch, but often times seems to be too loud and crowded.
- Classrooms
Classrooms are a great option if you have a teacher that allows you to come in during lunch. You have equal opportunity to study if necessary, get help from your teacher or socialize with your friends. The primary negative aspect is that it could be difficult to find a teacher that opens their classroom to students during their lunch period. If you are able to find a teacher that does open their classroom, it is a fantastic option.
- Under the Atrium Stairs
The stairs under the atrium seem to be a questionable choice at first, but it becomes apparent why this spot is so good once you try it yourself. It has countertops, comfortable chairs, power outlets and a great view. The only downside of this spot is that it could be crowded quickly. It provides everything a student could want and you should definitely give it a try.
Overall, these are all great options for eating lunch in school, but the atrium stairs offer the most complete experience. Regardless, you should try each spot and see what the best option is for you.
