My Open Letter to the PC Staff at Ray and Alumni

It has only taken me two years to write this letter, but I say better late than never. (No, I did not plan on making that rhyme, I am just that good.) As students go about their busy days, class to lunch to the gym then back to class, then later to dinner, we tend to overlook those surrounding us. We are so focused on getting to class on time or printing out the PowerPoint slides, that we do not take a single moment to appreciate the little things. Sometimes, we even miss the big things. One of those “big things” is the staff at Providence College. Although the entire staff at Providence College deserves a round of applause, I am specifically talking about the people we would refer to in middle school as “the lunch lady.” Those who work in Raymond Dining Hall and Alumni Food Court are the most committed, understanding and kind staff I have ever met. They are literally the best of the best, and here is why:

1. Speed

First off, they are really quick, sometimes too quick. Usually, they are waiting on us to figure out our order or get our cards out in a timely fashion. I do not know if you have all had the pleasure of having a conversation with Dot, the quickest PC ID swiper ever, but she will often try to engage you in conversation. Don’t just pass her by, but talk to her and simply step aside so others can swipe in.

2. Kindness

I have yet to meet a single staff member that has missed forming a smile whenever I pass them by. However, it is a give and take. If you disagree with this, perhaps you have not lent a smile forward. Just think, if you’ve had a long day, imagine how their day is going. They often engage you in conversation and sincerely care about how your week is going.

3. Understanding

I may be the only person who does this, but I always want turkey on top of my salad. Whether it is at Ray or Alumni, I make a salad first and then go for the deli meet. At Alumni, it used to confuse them because they did not know what to mark it as on the sheet. However, they have never refused. Even though the meat is meant for wraps, that never stops them. Beyond that, I often leave Alumni with a ton of food, since you aren’t supposed to stock up at Ray, and I take forever to get my food together when leaving the cash register. But they always reply, “Take your time, honey,” or something really nice like that.

4. Knowledgeable

This may not apply to everyone either, but as a student with a lot of food allergies, I often ask them questions about the gluten-free and dairy-free options available. There has never been a time when they did not know the answer to my question. Actually, I take that back. One time, Dot did not know the answer and she personally walked me over to the allergy section to help me figure out the answer.

5. A Solid Personality

Now, if you do not get grilled cheeses or fries or any fast food then you might not know him, but the PC employee behind the Take Three section of Alumni possibly has the best personality of them all. He is beyond funny, but past that, he is joyful. He is always singing while he’s preparing your order, even whistling sometimes. And he will always, always, crack a joke to make you laugh. I have to say that is usually the highlight of my dinner.

So here are those reasons as to why they are so superb. Next time, try to notice them and even see if you can come up with your own in your mind.