Steven Caldwell's editorial criticizing his own choice to be independent raises some interesting points about independent life but fails to consider its many advantages. Instead, it reads more like a propaganda piece for fall sign-ins in the eating clubs than an honest depiction of his experiences. Students may be better served to hear from someone who has realized the advantages that I have enjoyed for more than a year.
First, Caldwell claims that being independent is not financially viable given prices at Frist. This is just not true. While Frist has always seemed a bit pricey (although of good quality), club dues and meal plans aren't exactly cheap, either. For an eating club with dues of approximately $4000, each meal is about $10, and don't forget that you pay for meals you don't eat. And Frist isn't the only option — check out some choices on Nassau Street and beyond. Not only is the expense reasonable, I have the flexibility of eating what I want, when I want.
Caldwell continues by complaining that it is difficult to obtain groceries. This really isn't so hard. Use the McCaffery's service sponsored by the USG, or walk over to Wild Oats, the U2, or the Wawa. Make friends with someone with a car and spend an hour shopping with them. There's a USG rideline service to find rides. I find that being independent gives me extra reasons to step off campus now and then. Use this opportunity to break from the Princeton bubble rather than becoming even more insular in the clubs.
The fact that so many upperclassmen choose to be independent and that independent options, rooms and apartments exist at all demonstrate the University's interest in giving students good choices. Other university options including buying points, or remaining in a residential college and eating in the dining halls. What other options could be provided? Does anyone expect Shirley Tilghman to take you out to feel melons, and then have Stu Orefice come to personally cook you prime rib in the Scully kitchen?
Clearly independent life is not for everyone — but it is a much better option than Caldwell portrays. If you are independent and unhappy, you still have a choice. There are clubs that upperclass students can still join, and since Cladwell claims that he didn't use his independent draw option, he is free to sign-in without any problems from the Housing Department. In fact I suggest he considers this. But I urge other students to consider independence as a viable option. Also, I invite any interested students to join and become involved with the Independent Student Union (www.princeton.edu/~isu). This recently formed group is designed to support independent students and their choice to be independent. For some people, a certain eating club fits them best. For others, being independent is the best fit. What's important is to be aware of all aspects of the choice and to then determine which is best for you. Chris Bobko '03
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