Have you ever thought of adapting a new lifestyle? Does meat suddenly repulse you? Well, here is a guide on how to be a vegetarian in University dining halls and how to say no to the chicken tenders.
1. Don't Lose Hope Quickly
When you first venture out into the dining halls, not yet aware of the benefits your campus has to offer, don't be discouraged: there is always an option other than bird food. Eventually, you will find what works for you.
2. We Eat More Than Salad
Don't believe the stigma that all vegetarians eat is salad. Yes, in the dining halls, it's easier to run to the salad bar than to take options into consideration, but there are so many things to choose from. Get out of your comfort zone and find what accommodations the campus has for the lifestyle.
3. Sometimes, it'll be a little unsatisfying
When there is an event with free food, sometimes all you get is a couple crumbs, and you're left unsatisfied. Don't let it discourage you. One day, there'll be a vegetarian friendly event (in the next 10 years).
4. Your Friends Will Tease You
People will ask "wait so you're vegan?", "do you eat eggs?", or "do you do it for the animals?" The best response to all of these questions is to give them the look and continue on with your day--its just too much hassle to explain yourself all the time.
5. You'll Get Tired of Beans
You slowly realize that your diet consists of mainly one protein: beans. Particularly, black beans. Sometimes, tofu isn't a fantastic option when prepared incorrectly, and peanut butter sandwiches only take you so far.
6. You'll Feel So Much Better Mentally & Physically
In college, there are many stresses--exams, socializing, clubs, and balancing an on campus job--and you might be tired. The good thing about transitioning to a vegetarian diet is how amazing you feel both mentally and physically. There is mental clarity, and you have so much more energy than before.
7. It's okay if you mess up
You won't be raided by every vegetarian on campus when you mess up. It's okay, a part of human nature is to mess up at times, we aren't perfect. Use the mistake as a lesson for the future, get up, and try again.
8. Overall, it's a life choice
All choices are shaped by beliefs. If you believe that meat is the way to go, then that's what you'll eat. If you believe that veggies and animal activism are the way to go, then do it! The whole point of a lifestyle is the decision, and your justification for it.
