Nov. 14 marked the one year anniversary of Sophie’s Snacks. When Carolina Torres ‘27 introduced it a year ago, no one could have anticipated the lasting effect it would have on the community. Throughout the past year, we’ve seen many changes, with additions like Goodles and Poppi, and the removal of less popular snacks, such as Pirate’s Booty and Chobani yogurt. It has become a popular spot for social interactions as well as a convenient, quick snack stop to supplement lacking lunchboxes.
Interested in the perspective of those truly impacted by this, we interviewed students in line for the vending machine during the break between first and second period. Out of the people we were able to interview, most said that they use the vending machine at least once or twice a day. “It’s a great addition to Carrollton,” said Allyson Wolfson ‘28. “When I’m hungry and my parents don’t pack me snacks, it’s always there.”
Most people in line looked forward to buying Goodles and unique snacks. “Plaintain chips and Annie’s cookies–it’s a lethal combo,” said Elizabeth Xydas ‘28. We were also able to get feedback from the vending machines’ top users on possible future improvements. Julie Hernandez ‘26 commented she would like to see “more variety and gum packets,” and Mora Sundblad, ‘28 requested “more mac and cheese because it always runs out.”
Seeing its growing impact on student life (and wallets), we were interested in the process Torres used to make Sophie’s Snacks a reality. We have interviewed her to gain insight into the original concept, planning, decisions, execution, and results of her efforts.
The following interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
What was your original idea and purpose for Sophie’s Snacks at Carrollton?
I used to stay after school for soccer, and I’d never have anything to eat–also, I’d often forget or not have enough time to pack my lunch. I realized there were no other options for students in my situation, apart from buying school lunch. I also noticed every other school has a vending machine, so I felt we should have one too. The main purpose was just to let people eat snacks and goodies that their lunch wouldn’t provide for them. That was the original idea: I always wanted it to be a vending machine.
Has Sophie’s Snacks grown into what you envisioned?
I think it has because we were actually able to get a vending machine, and it has healthier food options, which was one of the purposes of it–not just to have chips but alternatives like protein bars and shakes.
What is your favorite snack?
I like the lime plantain chips.
What is the most popular snack?
I think the Goodles are the most popular.
What do you recommend for someone who is interested in bringing a project, like Sophie’s Snacks, to Carrollton?
I think you should just go for it and send an email to [Upper School Head] Mrs. Consuegra. That’s what I did, and she was super supportive and helped me a lot with it. I think if you have an idea, just talk to her, and she can help you actually bring it to life and make it happen.
Do you have any plans for Sophie’s Snacks in the future?
Yes, I have some ideas. Maybe we could get another vending machine or just more food options that are more meal-oriented, like the Goodles so if someone doesn’t have lunch, they can have that instead.
Alex Prado • Dec 10, 2025 at 4:45 pm
amazing!