We all know the struggles of living in a freshman dorm. For the first time in a long time, you do not have easy access to your own kitchen. Even if you’re lucky enough to get a double this year, there’s never enough space to store everything. That’s why I’ve compiled a short grocery list of items that can be found at the Giant in Cathedral Heights and won’t break the bank.
1. Cereal
This ageless classic is simple and perfect for that midnight snacking that is inevitable as you put the finishing touches on a paper at two in the morning. It’s definitely been a while since you swiped into TDR.
2. Peanut Butter
While sometimes overlooked, the value of this thick, creamy food is not just in taste, but also in its protein content. At about 8 grams per 2 tbsp serving, this can replace a meal if spread on pita bread or crackers.
3. Saltines
While Peanut Butter is great, you really need something to put it on. Saltines are perfect. They work well with Peanut Butter or any jelly you might have. They stay good for a long time, so they wont go stale.
4. Ramen
It’s the old college standby for a reason. These noodles are inexpensive and come with their own seasoning. They can be prepared on a stove stop or in the microwave, too.
5. Coffee or Tea
Caffeine is probably the most important nutrient for a college student. Some days sleep isn’t an option between extracurriculars and class and work, so coffee and/or tea can make up for the fact that sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day.
6. Granola Bars
Buy yourself those extra fifteen minutes of sleep by packing some type of granola bar in your backpack for class the night before. They work great to stave off hunger during extremely long lectures.
7. Fresh Fruit
Don’t underestimate the value of some nice, whole fruit. It’s easy to fall into unhealthy eating, but fruit is a great way to keep healthy foods around. Its also a good excuse to go to your local farmers market, on or off campus.
8. Chips
A great salty snack that never seems to go bad, chips are a great way to ruin a diet. They aren’t too expensive at Giant and can be used to lure your friends out of hibernation between classes.
9. Boxed Mac N Cheese (or any boxed food at all)
The value of having all the dry ingredients for a recipe premeasured and ready to be cooked or microwaved is priceless. Even better, they aren’t too expensive at the grocery store. They can be made easily on rainy days or when your meal swipes run out.
10. Non-refrigerated Milk
These little cartons of milk that don’t need to be refrigerated are total space savers in your minifridge. Milk is also needed for a ton of recipes, so the little cartons are versatile.
11. Homemade foods
Never underestimate the value of food sent from home in a care package. They’re priceless.