Freshmen’s Guide to U-Pick

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U-Pick is a meal equivalency program that Marist College provides for all students but has been specifically targeted at freshmen. It is intended to help the students diversify their meal choices across campus, except most freshmen have no idea what it is or how to use it. 

U-Pick functions by allowing freshmen 10 dollars worth to spend at on-campus dining locations while only using one meal swipe. At Marist, freshmen are required to get unlimited swipes on their meal plan; U-Pick lets them try other on-campus dining spots - besides the main dining hall - without using Thrifty Cash or Marist Money.

Though U-Pick is a great option for students, several restrictions were put in place since last semester on what is available to purchase while using U-Pick. Students are no longer permitted to use their U-Pick to buy ice cream from the Cabaret, nor are they allowed to use it on any frozen food available on campus. It should also be noted that on the Marist website, it says these restrictions are subject to change at any time, meaning more could be put in place. 

So how are freshmen using their U-Pick this year? By far, the most popular place for the class of ’26 to use their U-Pick has been the Cabaret, often referred to as the “The Cab.” The Cab offers burrito bowls, quesadillas, and other Mexican cuisine options. The Cab is popular for U-Pick because it is often where students go instead of the dining hall, so a meal from the Cab is a perfect way to use Marist’s meal equivalency option. 

The staff at the Cabaret are also very informative about U-Pick and frequently ask customers if they would like to pay with their U-Pick. U-Pick is available to use at many places on campus, including the Steel Plant Garden Cafe, Library Brew, North End Dining and more.