College Gluten-free

Eating in college was always a concern for me. What will be available? Will I like it? Will I get sick from cross-contamination? Pretty overwhelming questions for a girl who was still trying to decide where I was going to spend the next 4 years of my life. UVA mentioned that they had a section that is dedicated to being 100% gluten-free as well as free of other major allergens. Honestly the fact that they mentioned that had me sold. I assumed I would be set. I have to say I don't have to worry about the freshman 15 (or 1st year 15 for all my UVA people out there). Every meal at the “Copper Hood” near my dorm consists of a meat, a starch, and a vegetable. I have had more chicken and white rice in these first few weeks than I think I have had in the rest of my life before this. I’m grateful that UVA is thinking about gluten-free options, but I will say I miss pasta, and pizza, and anything unhealthy really. There is a small cooler that has slices of gluten-free bread (but no separate toaster or spreads so it can really only be used for sandwiches, big bummer), buns, and occasionally a sweet treat like a brownie. I will say that my taste buds have really been unamused so far in college. Now let's talk about some truly impressive gluten-free. Christopher Newport University in Newport News had the most amazing gluten-free selection. I indulged in pre-made gluten-free pizza (which is so good that my boyfriend has been eating it since he's been there, unaware that it was gluten-free!), hash browns and tater tots, a waffle, bacon, and fried eggs. Also, they clearly label all gluten-free food not just the food in the gluten-free section, which is something UVA is really lacking. If I don’t like what is being served at the Copper Hood, I’m pretty much out of luck because that's the only thing that is labeled as gluten-free at UVA. So far, I would label my college gluten-free as bland and generally unappealing. Hopefully there won't come a day when I am unable to force another bite of dry chicken down my throat. Cross your fingers.