In the rush of classes, work, friends, and other activities, students don’t always have the luxury of slowing down for a full meal. Especially considering how quick finals week and winter break is approaching!
People tend to be all over the place and in a rush, so it can sometimes be difficult to find good options for food. I know firsthand the struggles of being a pretty involved student as a member of the Titan Marching Band, which has me busy year round, but I also spend a lot of time working in my job at Jimmy John’s, so I think that pretty much makes me an expert on “freaky fast” food options.
Acknowledging that I am not the only self-proclaimed connoisseur of fast food, I reached out to a few fellow students who also have chaotic schedules to find the answer to the age-old question: what IS the best option for eating on the go?
For many, convenience is key. Rebecca Brooks is a senior involved in Skills USA, Education Academy, Educators Rising, and also working two jobs.
“My favorite places to go to are the ones I can order online and pick up on my way – Panera Bread, McDonald’s, Panda Express,” Brooks said.
When she cooks at home, Brooks keeps things simple: “I’ll make a big batch of pasta and stick it in Tupperware. When I heat it up, I add a little butter and… boom, dinner!”
Other students prioritize eating at home.
Senior Abigail Bender, who is involved in Biomedical Academy, Student Council, Leo Club, Global Support Club, National Honor Society, and EmpowerHER, having leadership positions in most of the things mentioned, as well as working 10 hours a week at a daycare as well as babysitting on the weekends, says she doesn’t rely on fast food much at all.
“I always eat at home, so I don’t know how much help I will be on this,” she said. If dinner isn’t planned, she just grabs whatever she can find in the fridge.
Others prefer a mix of both worlds. Pro Start culinary expert and Color Guard performer Sophie Hamblin, a senior who holds a job at Nebraska Crossing, says their go-to spot while at work is Paradise Bakery.
Meanwhile, athlete Kam Bails, a junior who plays Varsity Volleyball, as well as a member of National Honor Society, enjoys a rotation of fast-food sandwich shops.
“I usually enjoy getting Jimmy John’s or Subway, but on some nights McDonald’s,” Bails said.
When eating at home, Bails looks for quick microwavable options with plenty of protein.
When it comes to balancing a busy schedule, planning ahead can make all the difference.
Sophomore Audrey Evans, who is involved in Radiance Show Choir, and does baton twirling both inside and outside of school with the P-Town Twirlers and Sue’s Stepperettes, says she preps her meals early in the week or the night before.
Evans’ grab-and-go staples include yogurt parfaits, chicken salads, sandwiches, smoothies, or even just a protein shake when time is tight.
“If I’m ever in a pinch, then I tend to go to any sandwich shop or Panera to grab a soup or sandwich,” Evans said. “For me, it’s all about getting protein-filled food that will keep you fueled for any practice or rehearsal. I also always keep a small snack in each of my bags, so I always have something available in case of an emergency.”
So it seems the best option is anything that can be ordered or planned ahead. No matter what they rely on, whether it be fast food or at-home meals, students are finding creative and convenient ways to keep themselves fed and on the move – at least until winter break opens up whole new options for all-day feasting. Cheers!
