The Dining Service staff welcomes you to Hope College. Our dining program is an integral part of the residential experience. Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our program. If you have any additional questions, please stop by the Dining Service Office in Phelps Hall or call  (616) 395-7930.

What meal plans are available?
Hope College Dining Service offers three meal plans: 21, 15, and 10 meals per week. The 21 meal plan is the best value with the lowest cost per meal. The 15 and 10 meal plans are available to students who choose not to eat 3 meals a day. Keep in mind if you live in a residence hall, you must participate in a meal plan.

Where do I register for a meal plan?
You can register for a meal plan on your housing card that you receive in the mail prior to the school year. If you have not signed up, go to the Student Development office to register.

Can I change my meal plan?
Returning students may change their meal plans only during the first week of classes in the fall and spring semester. Freshmen and new students may change their meal plan only during the first two weeks of fall semester and the first week of spring semester. Meal plan changes are made in Student Accounts, in the 100 E. 8th building.

How are my meals accounted for?
Each time you enter the dining hall a meal will be deducted and tracked by computer. The checker can then tell you how many meals remain on your meal plan for the week. A meal plan begins Sunday breakfast and ends Saturday dinner. Meals not used during the week cannot be carried over to the following week.

Are meal plans transferrable?
Only you may use your card, no one else.

What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
Report it immediately to the Dining Service office. This will insure that no one else can use your card. Until a replacement I.D. is obtained, you must leave a deposit at the checker's stand to enter the dining hall. Bring your new I.D. to the Dining Service office and the deposit will be returned to you.

How do I make a healthy choice?
Hope College Dining Service understands there is a need for nutritious, low fat food options. We serve "Heart Smart" entrees at lunch and dinner seven days a week. To eliminate guesswork, there is nutritional information available for each item we serve. A registered dietitian is also available for consultation.

Can I bring a guest to the dining hall?
All students on a meal plan are entitled to bring a guest once a semester to the dining hall at no additional charge. To receive your guest pass, stop by the Dining Service office during business hours prior to the meal you wish to use it. Additional meals can be purchased at the checkers stands.

What if I have special dietary requirements?
If you are placed on a restricted diet by your physician, please contact the Dining Service office so we can meet your needs. Special diets must be approved by the Campus Health Clinic.

Are there other dining options?
The Hope College Kletz Snack Bar has the "DEBIT DEBIT" card. The "DEBIT DEBIT" allows you to deposit money into your account to purchase food at the Kletz at your convenience. Each deposit you make will earn 10%. For example, if you deposit $100.00 you will have $110.00 available for food purchases. See the Kletz for further details.

My job conflicts with the cafeteria meal hours, can I eat at another time?
We will be happy to prepare a well balanced meal to go for you. Stop by the Dining Service office located in Phelps Hall and ask to arrange for a sack lunch meal. Requests are taken from Monday 8:00 A.M. until Friday @ 4:00 P.M. online or Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M in the office. 48 housr advanced notice is required. Only pre-ordered sack lunches will be availble to pick up!

If I am sick, can I eat in my room?
Yes, a friend can get food for you. They must present your I.D. card at the cafeteria where they will sign for your meal. We will provide appropriate containers for transporting your meal.

Can I use my meal plan for residence hall sponsored banquets, picnics, e.t.c?
Yes, your organization leader will have a sign-up sheet which will be turned in to the Dining Service office three business days prior to the event.

Can I work for the Dining Service? There are many advantages to working with us, just a few are as follows:

Excellent pay
Tax Advantages (7.65% FICA)
Advancement Opportunities
Incentives
Merit Raises
Staff Parties
Work with Friends