Campus Guide: James Madison University

Rose McGroarty

Allergies: Peanuts, Tree Nuts
Class: 2017
Major: Geology and Dance
Post Graduation Plans: I’m planning on going to grad school for geology, hopefully Arizona State University or Caltech.
Dining Hall: Festival Food Court

Rose’s Tips:

✔️️ Work with the Office of Disability Services if you have airborne reactions. They will work with you to provide a letter to your professors requesting allergen-free classrooms.

✔️️ Don’t be afraid to approach professors and talk to them.

Would you describe James Madison University as allergy-friendly?

Even though they do not label foods at the to-go places, allergen information is available from the manager and they are very friendly and helpful about it. I have never had a problem with cross-contamination there. Very helpful Office of Disability Services, professors all willing to work with you, and people tend to be nice about allergies.

Top Picks Around Campus

Festival Food Court:

Great food and even a nut-free Chinese food place! The sandwich places also do not have peanut butter, and they are careful about wheat-free upon request.

📍 MSC 3101 Harrisonburg, VA 22807 | 📄 Festival’s Menu

Einstein Bros. Bagels:

Excellent bagels, never had a problem with food allergies.

📍 Gibbons Hall, 150 Bluestone Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 | 📄 Einstein’s Menu

Chick-fil-A:

Very friendly and helpful, and they have wheat-free, peanut-free, soy-free options.

📍 1691 E Market St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 | 📄 Chick-fil-A’s Menu

Greenberry’s Coffee Co.

Good beverages. Wouldn’t trust the food for nuts but the hot chocolate is excellent. They do have an almond milk option but I have never had a problem with cross-contamination.

📍 400 S High St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 | 📄 Greenberry’s Menu