1. I observed the one of the cafeterias and connected convenience stores located at Grand Valley State University. I made the observations at approximately 1 in the afternoon on Saturday.
2.
a. The area looked much more like a restaurant in the seating area than a cafeteria; however, the cafeteria where the food was distributed was reminiscent of a business or hospital cafeteria, much more modern than your typical college cafeteria.
b. Seating was readily available, as it was a cafeteria, and there were tables and chairs, and booths.
c. I witnessed approximately 30 or so people eating. There were also about 15 people in the connected convenience store.
d. The floor of the cafeteria where you picked up your food was tiled as was the convenience store, but the dining room was carpeted.
e. Medium volume of student chatter was the only apparent noise.
f. Outside was made of brick, but the inside was normal dry wall, painted and the roof was wood.
3. The food area itself gave a very modern and “in & out” look to it but the dining room was very restaurant like and homey. I believe that the school attempts to portray a very modern and new look, and they achieve this as most of the buildings look identical and brand new. Also the cafeteria is very easy, serve yourself, and you swipe your card after you’ve gotten your food.
4. Everyone was talking and eating or just simply sipping on a coffee purchased at the store. Many looked content to sit there for long periods of time, and my friend even said that the pictures in the brochures could have been taken at this time. Everyone was happy, interacting, and enjoying their respective meals.

5. I found it interesting that there were so many options for food, and that it was much like a restaurant. It was much more inviting than a normal cafeteria, and it truly grew on me as I sat and watched all the students enjoying themselves. Seemed to me in my one observation that it could be a third place.