Big Red ID: The Card, Dining Dollars, Big Red Dollars, etc.

Every WKU students (or faculty member) must have a WKU Big Red ID. You can get this ID from the ID Center, located in DUC (Downing University Center).

The card has several functions, some of which are optional, but many of which all students will use th card for. In all transactions on campus, there is a chance that whatever office you're working with may ask to see your ID.

You'll definitely need to use your card for:

• getting a parking permit
• all functions of the library (book checkout, laptop checkout, etc.)
• getting into the gym (the Preston Center, if you're not familiar)
• getting discounts at various locations, local and in Nashville
• accessing personal information
• picking up packages

Should you choose to get a meal plan, dining dollars, or Big Red dollars. No doubt WKU has sent you some information about these options, and you may still be deciding whether or not to purchase them. Obviously, we can't tell you what's best for you. Assess your own needs. Generally speaking, I've never known any grad students who used these options -- they're generally designed for people who live on campus in dorms that don't allow for much cooking.

A meal plan, dining dollars or Big Red dollars may be good for you if you:

• don't cook much, and/or don't plan on (or want to) bring your own lunch
• plan on being on campus every day, not just for class
• aren't a picky eater

On the other hand, they may not be worth the money if you:

• cook somewhat frequently at home
• plan to or are considering bringing your own lunch from home
• won't be on campus every day, or will only be there for limited times
• are more selective with your diet

While WKU does have several dining facilities, majority of them are located down the hill. As English students, you'll be spending most of your time in Cherry Hall, at the top of the hill. The only facilities nearby are at Garret Food Court and Subway.

Garrett Food Court has:

• Home Zone (think cornbread, lots of chicken & meatloaf, varieties of potatoes)
• Pasta place, name of which I can't remember (two sauce options, choice of meats and veggies)
• Mexican food, also nameless at the moment (build-your-own tacos, burritos, nachos, and other usual fare)
• Pizza place -- usually about five or six options, two of which are vegetarian
• Burger place -- need I say more?
• Miscellaneous cooler options (salads, wraps, sandwiches, yogurts, fruits, etc.)

SO -- if you think you'll be eating at these locations frequently (once a day), consider going with some type of Big Red currency, be it Dining Dollars or Big Red Dollars. If this is a once-a-week thing, I'd just stick with cash or debit rather than putting money into accounts that you can't retrieve. The options can be limiting, and these facitilities are generally super packed all hours of the day, meaning long lines and limited seating

For more technical information straight from the horse's mouth, visit the WKU card webpage.