For students at The University of Akron, an identification card is a necessity. Besides simply being a photo identification, this card gives student’s access to residence halls, printing, renting books from the library and many other things on campus. It is also used to gain entrance into UA sports games, events at EJ Thomas Hall, and other UA affiliated club organization events. Last but not least, this card, known as the “Zip Card” is used like a debit card for meal plans. Students can choose up to several types of meal plans that include swipes, dining dollars, and off-campus funding.

With this being said, students can use the Zip Card at over 30 on and off-campus locations. For on-campus locations such as: Barnes & Noble, Quaker Square, Rob’s Café, Subway, Starbucks, Freshens, Student Union Market, and many more. As for off-campus locations, there is: Buffalo Wild Wings, Dave’s Supermarket, Taco Bell, Giant Eagle, McDonalds, Starbucks, and Chipotle, and many more.

Fortunately, students are able to use their zip card at the majority of food services off-campus within a mile or two proximity of the Student Union. Students are able to use their zip card to get take out, dine in, or even treat their families out to dinner when in town. Unfortunately, student’s Zip Cards are being declined at the Chipotle on East Exchange Street below University Edge Apartments.

The only opportunity for students to purchase from this Chipotle is if they have pocket money or family or a friend is around to cover them. Students that live within University Edge, on and off campus are frequent customers, sometimes even twice a day. Many freshmen are limited to their funds, especially if you have a meal plan, what would students need cash for.

Chipotle is known for “Food with Integrity,” but to students at The University of Akron, it is food with price. A price that cannot be paid for with Zip Cards. Although Zip Cards are accepted at two other locations, 371 Howe Road in Cuyahoga Falls and 825 W. Market St. in Akron.

Despite there being two other Chipotle locations that accept Zip Cards, it is inconvenient for students who may not have transportation to get to the other locations and having to pay out of pocket for their meal.

After having spoke with someone at the Zip Card Office, they had mentioned that “it is up to the Merchant whether or not they support The University of Akron’s Zip Cards and the location at the corner of East Exchange Street and Sumner Street” With this being said, the student body can only wait for the day this Chipotle accepts student’s Zip Cards.