This summer, I decided to become vegan. Living on my own over the summer, I was free to buy what I wanted, cook anything I desired, and change my lifestyle in a way that I hadn’t dreamed of. So one day I decided to revisit my summer reading book Eating Animals, and it inspired me to become vegan for a week. A week turned into a month and continued on.
When school started and the meal plan kicked in, I had the difficult choice of whether or not I felt that I could sustain veganism. And though things were initially difficult, I’m still going strong. And if I – a picky eater who comes from an egg and dairy household – can do it, anybody can. But this article isn’t for me to yammer about the benefits of being vegan (though there are many, both health and environmental); rather, it’s to share tips for anyone thinking of going vegan or in the process of doing so.
1. Vary it up
Freshmen mainly eat at the marketplace, and there’s already a section dedicated to vegan options. Marketplace is usually very good about varying the options. However, upperclassmen (and freshmen bored of marketplace) have many places to go as well.
Au Bon Pain has vegan soups, wraps, and salads. The Great Hall has vegan cultural cuisine. I have absolutely fallen in love with Sitar – their dishes are mostly sauces and chickpeas, and I have their samosas as often as possible. Saladelia and Pitchfork Provisions have great wraps – the falalfel pita or hummus and lentil – as well as delicious side dishes such as the black bean salad. The spicy black bean burger at the Loop is also to die for. And let’s not forget Merchants on Points… I love ordering from the Mediterranean Grill. Finally, the Refectory is vegan heaven. They have vegan brunch, snacks, and desserts. And even if something you find is only vegetarian, chances are it’s only a two-step process to turn it vegan.
2. Stock up
I have fruit in my fridge at all times in case I need a snack. Granola bars, Luna bars, and Clif bars are great treats. Try the raspberry and chocolate Luna: it gives you good protein, iron, and calcium. You can buy any of these at the lobby shop on West campus or in the East campus store. Having cereal, granola, and other healthy vegan options makes it that much easier when your friends are picking up Loyo.
3. Watch your nutrition
It’s surprisingly easy for vegans to not eat enough vegetables. That being said, do make sure that you are getting enough protein, iron, and vitamin B – things easily found in animal products. Taking nutritional supplements definitely helps.
4. Branch out, get a support system
My roommate this year is trying to go vegan as well, and it is nice to be going through the struggles with someone else. Try to meet other people who are vegan and it’ll be easier.
5. Don’t get discouraged if you falter
Nobody’s perfect, and if you accidentally eat something with dairy or egg in it, don’t beat yourself up. It’s okay to slip up, as long as you get back on your feet! Being vegan is no easy process, and becoming one in college is even more difficult, so just keep your eyes on the prize and concentrate on why it matters to you.