<p>The East Fairchild (or Communications) Residential College (CRC) has a kitchen on each floor. And it’s super close to Lake Michigan and has nice views, in my opinion, on both sides of the building. CRC won’t be closer to Econ classes, though. It’s on south campus. And, as for your meal plan question, I <em>think</em> it’s mandatory for freshmen to have meal plans. Not positive…but I think.</p>