The future of food delivery is here at Fordham University.
Recently, nine delivery robots, called “starships,” started service on the Rose Hill campus. They’re designed to satisfy the hunger of students, faculty, and staff alike.
Using the Grubhub app, anyone can order food from five on-campus dining spots: Cosi, Urban Kitchen, Dagger John’s, Bronx Bagel Company, and The Grotto. The robots operate from about 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and can deliver to 32 locations, including libraries and residence halls.
Anyone on campus can use the starships, whether students or staff. For those with a dining plan, ordering food can be done using dining dollars—extra funds for food purchases.
The robots are managed by Starship Technologies. They travel at a speed of 4 MPH, following set paths along sidewalks. Notably, these robots are already in use at 60 other campuses across the nation.
Maddie Ando, an engineering physics major and chair of the Fordham United Student Government’s dining committee, shared her excitement. “When I’m busy or studying at the library, it’s great to have a quick way to get nutritious food,” she said. Maddie loves the dining hall but appreciates the flexibility the starships bring.
“I can hang out with friends more without having to plan everything,” she added. This flexibility allows students to enjoy meals together without the stress of long waits.
To keep the starships running smoothly, four Fordham students have been hired to act as fleet attendants, handling minor repairs and maintenance. Their work takes place in a facility behind Jack Coffey Field.
Michele Burris, Fordham’s vice president for student affairs, noted this initiative connects well with the university’s efforts to engage students. “It’s all about resonating with what students want,” she said.
The starships represent a blending of technology and convenience on campus, echoing historical shifts in how food services operate. In 1920, food delivery was drastically different, often limited to personal services. Today, we see robots making that service more efficient and accessible.
Overall, this innovative approach offers a glimpse into a future where technology makes everyday life smoother, especially for busy students. It reflects a growing trend toward smart campus services, fostering community and social interaction in new ways.
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