Last year students had to search the campus for a place to make their popcorn, but no more. A change in University policy has approved a new combination of microwave and refrigerator for use in dorm rooms.
Beginning this school year, 200 MicroFridges are available to students through Tiger Rentals, the student agency that supplies appliances.
According to Housing Department Inspections Manager Ken Paulaski, the University had not previously allowed them because of New Jersey policy.
However, because other institutions had not been adhering to this policy, the University approached the state and received approval for the use of MicroFridges, Paulaski said.
Student agencies head Scott Weaver declined to comment on why the state allowed the appliances.
The black appliances have three parts — refrigerator, freezer and a firmly attached microwave.
Reactions among the student body have been largely positive.
Amie Ko '07 said delivery was not a problem, as the appliance was shipped only two days after she ordered it.
However, freshman roommates Rohini Rao and Suzanne Levy said their fridge was delivered a week late and left outside the room even though the price included installation.
But Rao defended her purchase anyway, saying "it does keep my Peach Diet Snapple cold."
Some students have complained about the prices, which for this year are set at $190 for the rental plus a $40 refundable deposit.
"That's so ridiculous," said Scott DeBenedett '08 — who ended up renting one.
Weaver said "just over 100" of the allotted 200 units have been rented out.
When asked if he would limit the number of rentals to 200 again next year, Paulaski said the decision would be made based on this year's success.
He also explained that storing the relatively large MicroFridges is a problem for the student agency.
Tiger Rentals would have to sell off some refrigerators to make room for more MicroFridges if the demand became larger.
The Housing Department will only allow one MicroFridge per room.
Students are permitted one refrigerator or freezer per person in addition to the MicroFridge.
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