I always knew I would be on a meal plan during my freshman year. I have never had to cook for myself, so I never even considered fending for myself every day. That’s exactly what my plan is for, to make sure I actually eat two or three times a day that somewhat resembles what I ate at home.
I have the seven-day open access meal plan, and I love it. I originally considered using the 14 meals a week plan, but I didn’t want to worry about counting meals during my first semester in college. I enjoy not having to ration my food.
Although I don’t eat more than three meals a day, having open access is helpful when I go to the dining hall with friends. Many of my friends are on different schedules, so I accompany them to the dining hall whenever I can. This means I may visit four times a day, and I like being able to go with them. Dining has become a social experience and having an open access meal plan has helped foster some friendships.
I enjoy using flex bucks as part of my meal plan, too. If I had to use my own money, I would definitely be consuming a lot less Starbucks. I don’t feel like I’m spending real money when I’m using my flex bucks, and a Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino is better enjoyed with a guilt-free conscience.
My eating habits have changed since coming to college, though. I eat breakfast at 10 a.m., and subsequently all of my meals are later. Lunch may be a salad from Croutons or a homestyle meal from Home Zone, or it may be whatever the dining hall is serving up. I feel like I have so much more variety in my day-to-day food options than I did previously. This also means I may be consuming more unhealthy food, but I’m enjoying all of my new dining options.
I enjoy explore all of my daily dining options. I can eat a thoroughly different meal three times a day, and it’s fun. I don’t have to worry about using up a set number of meals, and I can have the flexibility to eat anything on campus. I have to say I really enjoy using the meal plan.
