The freshman 15 is a notorious “coming of age” as a student transitions into their first year of college. The freshman 15 often sneaks up on each person, without them realizing what is actually happening. The thing is, the freshman 15 isn’t just for freshman. So why is it only called the “freshman 15” and not the “sophomore,” “junior,” or “senior 15?”  

Let’s find out…        

College represents freedom. The freedom to do whatever you want, say whatever you want, be whomever you want, but most importantly… eat whatever you want! The legend says that college students don’t necessarily eat the healthiest. Coming from home, students were often under the watchful eye of parents to eat healthy and take care of their bodies. Being in college, they no longer have that “security guard” to make sure everyone is taking care of himself or herself!           

As a result, many freshmen gain weight.  It truly is nothing to be upset about. It is completely normal and widespread across campus. To be honest, gaining weight, especially in college, does not always have to do with the fact that students eat unhealthily. Yes, it plays a large part, but a lack of sleep can also play a big role in a students increase in weight. Sleep is a time for the body to rejuvenate and digest what was eaten throughout the day. When students do not get the required amount of sleep, they are not giving their body the proper amount of time to digest the food, which leads to weight gain.

Another contributing factor to the infamous “freshman 15” is the mere reality that many college students do not have the means to afford “quality” or “nutritious” food to supplement the body. Every now and then it is possible, but more times than not, students go for the cheaper, less healthy option to save money. Time is another huge factor. Who has enough time to sit and eat a full meal of fruits, veggies, protein, etc? I know I don’t! I have so much on my plate; I usually eat while I am doing work! The struggle I always have with eating while I work, and I am sure I am not only the one, is that I never know where to stop! And what is worse, stress eating affects so many students! College is a high-stress environment. This often takes a toll on student’s eating habits. It is just the culture of college, which is why it is such a normal occurrence to see on campus.

Many people regard the “freshman 15” as the worst thing that could possibly happen to them. I like to view it from a different perspective. The “freshman 15” allows students to reevaluate their eating, sleeping, and workout habits. They can adjust accordingly. For example, if they did not work out much, they can allot times to maybe go to the gym. This will give students more energy, provide an outlet to express stress and anxiety, and most importantly, it will promote a student’s health. Individuals can also learn ways to eat healthy. Maybe in the dining hall, instead of picking up a cookie or ice cream, choose an apple or a banana. This does not have to be done every time but just once in a while. Students can learn to implement healthier habits into their everyday lifestyles.         

I think that is why it is called the “freshman 15.”  Once freshman year is over, students learn how to cope and live in their new environment given their resources and capabilities. Freshman year is really a learning year for everyone. It is the stepping stone to your life not only in college but, eventually, after.      

Overall, instead of looking at the “freshman 15” as a detriment, look at it as a learning lesson. Learn how to live a healthier life but also enjoy it at the same time! Who said we can’t splurge every once in a while?