Lunch plans

PAIGE NEWTON/ THE STANDARD Four containers of Tuscan Chicken Stir Fry lay out, ready to be stored in the fridge for the week.

Bringing lunch to school can save college students money

CAROLINE MUND Staff Reporter @cemund32

Bringing lunch to school is something every student has done since they were in elementary school. Once students start making their own money and can drive to get fast-food options, this tradition slowly starts to fade.

For some college students, bringing lunches to campus has saved them money, time and created a healthier diet.

“To a lot of people, packing lunches seems unrealistic and time consuming, but it is so worth it when you see your finances and honestly how you’re feeling (less sluggish from not eating out so often),” said Cassie Kemmel, who is getting her masters in experimental psychology at Mis souri State.

Some effective ways to pack a lunch is to have a good lunch box, pack your meals the night before or do meal prep for the week.

This allows you to buy just what you need and spend within a budget. “I usually get everything ready at night so I can throw it in my lunchbox and go,” said Kenzie Dunlap, junior social work major. Students are also able to pack some of their favorite meals. For freshman Daisy More, this was her best option. Bringing her lunch allows her to have a gluten-free and organic diet.

“My favorite meals were either shrimp with salad with just virgin olive oil if I was feeling fancy, but if I was tired or in a rush, I would make an Italian sub. Also I would pack a dessert and a clementine as well.”

By having a meal packed, it allows students to eat where they choose. If you drive to school, you can just eat on campus without worrying about driving back and forth to your house or a restaurant.

Students can eat by their classes, the PSU and when it gets nice out, they can eat by the fountain. The PSU even has a microwave on the first floor for students to use.

“I would say go for it. It’s a lot healthier and cheaper in the long run,” Dunlap said.

Packing a lunch can be a simple task that makes a large impact.

It helps to cut down on spending, it allows for healthier food options and it can help you save time, whether that’s in the morning or eating quickly in between classes.