Choate recently implemented Apple Pay in all Choate facilities where students typically use their Choate card for purchases. The Tuck Shop, Lanphier Cafe, and the Choate Store are now accepting Apple Pay as a form of payment alongside previously used payment methods, such as Choate cards and credit cards. This change was spearheaded by Student Council Vice President Cassatt Boatwright ’24, who saw the need for a more convenient payment option for students.
Boatwright said the inspirations behind her proposal were suggestions from students who had trouble paying for their purchases, either because their Choate card was empty or because they left their wallet in their dorm room. As Boatwright said, “Not only did I want to get rid of awkward situations like this, but Apple Pay in the school store is simply more convenient for the student body while simultaneously beneficial to the School, as having more payment options encourages students to go to the Tuck Shop, Lanphier Cafe, and the Choate Store.”
The slow implementation for the updated pay system was caused by numerous unexpected obstacles. “The largest challenges were ones I could not control,” said Boatwright. “Mrs. Lafontaine informed me that implementing Apple Pay would require an upgrade, or even a complete replacement, of our credit card terminals,” she shared. “In addition … it was discovered that multiple vendors on the backend bank processing side of Apple Pay were involved in this process as well. Therefore, it took much longer than I had anticipated.”
With Apple Pay finally in place, Boatwright hopes that students can more conveniently enjoy the many necessities, foods, and drinks offered on campus.
“Apple Pay may seem small of a change, but I know it will allow at least a few students to enjoy what Choate has more frequently and easily.”
This change has been welcomed by many students who are excited to have a more convenient way to pay for their purchases. Ethan Wu ’24 said, “After Apple Pay, paying has become easier and convenient. It is just a great option to have in case you don’t have your wallet.”
The addition of Apple Pay is just one example of how Choate is adapting to the changing times and providing the best possible experience for its students.
