Food insecurity: A growing issue on college campuses
It’s no secret that the poor college student stereotype is often accurate. Living within, at times, extreme financial means is often seen as an opportunity to build character. Many joke about this typical dorm lifestyle, but the reality is much less comical.
Research shows that more than one quarter of college students find themselves skipping meals to make ends meet in a hectic daily schedule. This food insecurity has left many students juggling the costs of housing, textbooks, daily expenses and meal plans. The poor college student population is a growing but often overlooked demographic. To combat this alarming issue, USD should act proactively to support students’ health and budgets.
College students most affected by food insecurity are upperclassmen and nontraditional students. More of today’s college students are non-traditional. They tend to be older, first generation, and from lower-income situations. Growing numbers of undergraduates are also post-traditional students who juggle family responsibilities while they pursue a degree.
National nonprofit Feeding America estimates that nearly half of its clients in college must choose between educational expenses and food annually. Even with these struggles, the shame surrounding poverty leaves people silent, afraid to speak up and ask for help. One survey found 38 percent of food pantry users knew at least one person who didn’t use food banks due to stigma. Not until campuses address food insecurity directly will students consider admitting their struggles.
Even for students who find time to work, juggling a job alongside a full class schedule can be stressful. Evidence suggests college students work an average of 30 hours per week. These many hours take time away from their education and toward finding adequate means of living. Unlike previous decades, college students can’t work their way through college without taking out loans. Food prices aren’t dropping any time soon, either. All of these factors quickly take their toll on all college students, especially those facing food insecurity.
While experiencing high levels of stress, without sufficient nutrition, students struggle to maintain optimal health. Studies show food insecurity negatively affects academic performance, wellness and behavior. Food insecure students are much more likely to drop out of college to keep up financially.
Research about college-aged food insecurity is still lacking. Only eight comprehensive studies at individual campuses have collected data. Once officials uncover more information, communities must spread public awareness regarding nutrition and prices for higher education.
Resources such as campus food pantries and community gardens support the effects of food insecurity, but colleges must also begin at the source. This proactive action would include greater financial support specifically for meal plans, healthier food options and more education about nutrition and cooking would help alleviate some burdens. With USD’s current meal plans, the University could allow students to share unused Flex money or MUC meals with struggling individuals.
Ramen noodles and Easy Mac are classic but unsustainable college staples. These foods may be easier on the wallet and last longer on the shelf, but they ultimately detriment education and career goals. College campuses are institutions of change and responsiveness. A successful life begins at a solid foundation of health and wellness. College only last a few years, but access to nutrition lasts a lifetime.
