By Melanie J. Knox, Page Editor
Students who enjoy the red and white of Coca Cola Classic will soon learn to sing another song on campus: “You’ve got the right one baby,” as Pepsi takes control.
ACU signed a 10-year contract with Pepsi in June that eliminates all Coke products from campus, but, don’t panic. The deal still allows Dr. Pepper.
Some students are indifferent to the decision. “I drink Coke and Pepsi, so I really don’t care,” said Jessica Caffey, junior elementary education major from Ulysses, Kan.
Jamie Slagle, junior elementary education major from Friona, agreed. “I think the contract is fine. I like either one,” Slagle said.
Other students were concerned about the contract limiting their drink options.
“I think students want choices,” said Alyson Lee, junior art major from Billings, Mont. “I personally prefer Pepsi, but other students are going to want somewhere on campus to get a Coke.”
Shannon Bailey, junior business finance major from Corsicana, was concerned about the options as well.
“It’s good Pepsi gets to expand their productivity, but ACU should keep a variety of drinks,” he said. “I’m kind of disappointed that there will be no more Coke.”
Many other students are upset about the loss of Coca Cola.
“I think Coke products are a lot better than Pepsi,” said John Mark Mouty, junior business management major from Happy. “I know a lot of people who are very upset about this transaction.”
Janelle Baptiste, junior education major from Anchorage, Alaska, is going to miss Mr. Pibb. “Mr. Pibb is very dear to my heart, and it pains me that the school I love so much does not share this love,” Baptiste said.
Lisa Clark, senior speech pathology major from Austin, was also frustrated. “That’s a campus monopoly, and I don’t like it,” shesaid. “And Pepsi tastes yucky.”
Chris Jacobs, junior undeclared major from Kailua, Hawaii, was vehemently against it. “Coke 110 percent. I hate Pepsi with a passion.”
Other students are simply excited and content that Dr. Pepper is staying on campus.
“Dr. Pepper rocks my face off,” said Jacob Wardell, freshman Bible major from Belton.
“I think it should all be Dr. Pepper and sell nothing except Dr. Pepper,” said Kyle Mayfield, junior youth and family ministry major from Texico, N.M.
Jeremy Gordon, senior finance major from Dallas, was surprised at the fact that the contract was for 10 years.
“Whoa. That’s a long time,” Gordon said. “But I don’t think it’s anything anyone is going to transfer schools about.”
He’s probably right. Students should remember that they still have the freedom to drink whatever soft drink they want to on campus, they just shouldn’t expect to necessarily be able to buy it here.
