Campus Dining on a Gluten Free Diet
Going away to college is a huge step, even for those not having to deal with a serious food intolerance.
The important thing is to stay strong and confident.
Don't go to college with trepidation because you're worried about how and what you're going to eat.
Instead, look at gluten intolerance as something that makes you unique, a conversation starter if nothing else.
There are many ways to make living gluten free away from home easier.
Take my advice as a fellow student who had to go through the same things you or someone you know is dealing with right now.
I don't know of any colleges that offer an entire gluten free cafeteria for their students.
Even if the staff is helpful and offer you a few gluten free choices, I'm sure you are aware of the possibility of cross-contamination.
So, first and foremost, get a room with a kitchen.
If not possible or too expensive, request a microwave and a refrigerator.
If your only option is to dine at the mess hall with all the other 'normal' students, don't be discouraged.
Not only do you not have to cook all the time, but it's a great place to meet other students.
Before leaving for college you must not expect too much personal attention.
Rather, be prepared to go out of your way to make the cafeteria staff care about your special needs.
Legally, they have to accommodate you, but it is essentially your responsibility to make sure your needs are met.
Most people do not truly understand the effects gluten can have on someone who cannot tolerate the protein.
It is up to you to educate the staff and let them know what you can and cannot have.
Be polite and patient.
Get to know them on a first name basis and become friends if possible.
It will be worth it.
There's nothing worse then being alone and away from home for the first time and getting sick every day.
While you may not become best friends with your roommate, it is important that you let him or her know about your gluten intolerance.
Your dorm room should be the safest place you can eat in, but it can be easily compromised.
Tell your roommate the importance of keeping the kitchen, microwave and refrigerator clean.
Keep your food separate and do not share butter, jelly, toasters, or anything else that a dirty knife could drop breadcrumbs into.
Keep your pans and cooking utensils separate and away from the cooking space (such as in a cupboard).
The important thing is to stay strong and confident.
Don't go to college with trepidation because you're worried about how and what you're going to eat.
Instead, look at gluten intolerance as something that makes you unique, a conversation starter if nothing else.
There are many ways to make living gluten free away from home easier.
Take my advice as a fellow student who had to go through the same things you or someone you know is dealing with right now.
I don't know of any colleges that offer an entire gluten free cafeteria for their students.
Even if the staff is helpful and offer you a few gluten free choices, I'm sure you are aware of the possibility of cross-contamination.
So, first and foremost, get a room with a kitchen.
If not possible or too expensive, request a microwave and a refrigerator.
If your only option is to dine at the mess hall with all the other 'normal' students, don't be discouraged.
Not only do you not have to cook all the time, but it's a great place to meet other students.
Before leaving for college you must not expect too much personal attention.
Rather, be prepared to go out of your way to make the cafeteria staff care about your special needs.
Legally, they have to accommodate you, but it is essentially your responsibility to make sure your needs are met.
Most people do not truly understand the effects gluten can have on someone who cannot tolerate the protein.
It is up to you to educate the staff and let them know what you can and cannot have.
Be polite and patient.
Get to know them on a first name basis and become friends if possible.
It will be worth it.
There's nothing worse then being alone and away from home for the first time and getting sick every day.
While you may not become best friends with your roommate, it is important that you let him or her know about your gluten intolerance.
Your dorm room should be the safest place you can eat in, but it can be easily compromised.
Tell your roommate the importance of keeping the kitchen, microwave and refrigerator clean.
Keep your food separate and do not share butter, jelly, toasters, or anything else that a dirty knife could drop breadcrumbs into.
Keep your pans and cooking utensils separate and away from the cooking space (such as in a cupboard).
