Courtesy: Alexis Thornton
Students at Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication are raising concerns about a significant increase in vending machine prices. Recently, the cost of snacks and beverages in these machines surged by 50%, leading to frustration and confusion among the student body.
This sudden increase was not communicated to the students, leaving many feeling blindsided by the change. Honeybuns, previously priced at $2, have increased to $3. Additionally, a combination of a soda and a bag of chips that normally cost around 75 cents at a convenience store now totals $6 in the J-School vending machines.
Inconveniences arise along with these steep increases. The abrupt change raises questions about the decision to replace the previous vendors. What was the rationale behind removing the old vendors, and how do these new pricing structures align with the needs and budget constraints of students?
Many students are troubled by the sudden price hike, questioning the fairness and transparency of the decision. Given the substantial costs already associated with attending university, including tuition and fees for services like printing, this unexpected increase in vending machine prices feels particularly burdensome. Students are concerned about potential hidden fees and the allocation of the additional funds.
Faith Francois, a fourth-year broadcast journalism major, expressed her concerns, “I think it is unfair for college students who are notoriously known for being in debt to deal with the rising price of snacks. Many students spend long hours on campus and need something to keep them going, but a 50% increase will deter anyone from the vending machines.”
To understand the cause of this price hike, the new company vendors were contacted and the Business and Auxiliary Services Department. The vendors have stated that FAMU is responsible for the prices. Conversely, despite these newly installed machines, the Business and Auxiliary Services Department Director, Brittany Randall, shared that “Unfortunately, no additional funding is available to offset the increased costs.”
Further adding to the confusion, students observed that vending machine prices outside of other campus buildings, such as the Financial Aid Office, remain unchanged. This inconsistency has prompted questions about why only the machines inside these buildings have experienced this price increase.
Third-year criminal justice student Aaliyah McMahon made a great point, “Jacking the prices up while most of the students are back home is sneaky. At this point, students should just go to the pantry, where the snacks are free.”
Maybe there is a need for greater transparency and communication between the university administration and the student body. “The agreement reached reflects the university’s best interests, considering the current economic environment and the impact of inflation on many areas,” Randall added.
The Business and Auxiliary Services Department director Brittany Randall has referred all concerns and questions to the Student Government Association (SGA). The SGA plays a crucial role in shaping the student experience at FAMU by serving as a bridge between students and the administration, advocating for student needs, and managing and allocating funds.
Ensuring fair pricing and clear communication will be key to maintaining trust and supporting the well-being of all students. As students await a response, they hope for a resolution that addresses their concerns and ensures fair pricing across campus.