Written by Caroline Kelly

From college apps to senior privileges such as off-campus dining, senior year brings a lot of changes to the typical school year. These senior privileges have always been a significant part of the RCDS high school experience, symbolizing students’ rising standing in their school community and granting the seniors privileges that mirror those privileges of adults. However, the most noticeable change that this privilege brings is choice. The cafeteria is no longer the default option for seniors, meaning students now have the daily question of where to eat. 

The main factor when considering where to eat is where to go. The obvious destination might appear the town of Rye with its proximity and numerous eating destinations. However, the walk to the Rye Town Center is longer than most anticipate, and accounting for waiting time, the actual time to sit down and eat can feel rushed and undesirable, which is especially true if students don’t have both Z blocks free leaving limited eating time. However, most off-campus options are being heavily utilized as, on most days, there are relatively few seniors in the cafeteria. The prevalence of cars on campus allows many to reach locations outside the immediate town, limiting the accessibility of this tradition for those without vehicle access. For those without vehicle access to leave campus, it can be assuring to know that no one is missing out by not leaving campus every day. If logistics and time are somewhat a concern, the experience is often better enjoyed when treated as an occasion instead of an habit.