There are many things that preoccupy students, and no, I’m not talking about the staples of sex, drugs and rock and roll. I’m taking about something that may even rank higher up than doing homework or flirting with that cute special someone in biology: eating.
Sometimes, it can be difficult to find the time to sit down and eat in between work, class and practice. How do you ensure that you are eating three meals a day without spending a small country’s GDP or sticking to the ramen noodle diet? Even financial guru Suzie Orman says that groceries are one of the categories that is the easiest to cut back on. I highly doubt many of us are too concerned about building our stock portfolio or 401(k), but that money could be used in better ways, like paying off your student loan, car or rent payments or doing something fun like a concert at Red Rocks.
So back to the question at hand: how do you eat without breaking the bank? First off, look at where your money is going. Do you like to wait in line for your favorite $4 latte before morning class, or go out to sushi every Wednesday with your buddies? What about a night on the town that racks up $20 plus tab every Friday night? No one will argue that those aren’t fun, but if you find yourself strapped for cash and wondering where all your money is going before you have utilities, rent and tuition due — wonder no longer. Sometimes, you need 16 ounces of warm goodness to motivate your penguin waddle to the classroom building, but other times the cup of Joe from the coffee maker at home is good enough.
As for finding time — remember that there are 24 hours in a day, and we find time for what matters most. Yes, school, work, working out, spending time with friends, etc. are important, but so is spending a little on you-time. As the website frenchwomendontgetfat.com points out, you should make time to eat slow and make eating a sensual experience. Yes, you heard right: food can be sexy. Our campus is full of spots to take twenty minutes to enjoy your sandwich and unwind before continuing on with the afternoon.
Food doesn’t have to take a bite out of your budget and can be a relaxing experience. Cut back on all those trips out and take the time to eat in. The benefits are well worth it.
