Half the battle of a successful college career today is finding good, affordable places to eat. Surround yourself with a great atmosphere, some outstanding friends, and even better food and you've got the best four years of your life. Lawrence, Kansas, the home of the University of Kansas, is a college town thru and thru, serving nearly 30,000 students per academic year. As an outer city of the Kansas City metro area – home of some award-winning BBQ and world-renowned restaurants – Lawrence provides students of some very, very good options. If you ever find yourself needing to eat in Lawrence, check out one of these top, college-friendly places:

1. WheatFields Bakery & Cafe

Anytime I need breakfast, it's the first place I go. Sure, it's crowded on the weekends, but the biscuits and gravy (the full order, always) make it oh-so worth it.

2. The Burger Stand

Get your taste buds ready. The Burger Stand is well-known for more than just its burgers. From chipotle ketchup to marshmallow, the arrangement of dipping sauces is worth exploring all in itself. Add on a side of truffle fries, and you'll find yourself in heaven in a matter of seconds.

3. Jefferson's

Known for its wings, Jefferson's recently reopened after a fire in 2015. Since then, I've only been there once, but I definitely understand the hype. Be sure to keep an eye on their Twitter

4. Ladybird Diner

I've yet to go to Ladybird, but after taking a look at their Instagram account, it's the first place on my list for this semester. From pie to donuts, this diner appears to be what every college student dreams of.

5. Pizza Shuttle

Ok, people. This is where we get serious. Open late, Pizza Shuttle is hands down the best place in Lawrence for pizza. For only $5, you can grab yourself a personal pizza and soft drink. Add 25 cents and you can add some ranch. But if you, too, want to enjoy the ridiculous ceiling tiles and cream cheese pizza, DON'T FORGET TO BRING CASH.

6. Encore Cafe

Asian Cuisine is always a good choice, and Encore Cafe on Mass Street holds up that standard very strongly. The Mango Chicken Bento Box is my personal favorite, and it's all for a very affordable $8.

7. Sylas and Maddy's

Pencil in this homemade ice cream stop onto your calendar for every Tuesday evening. Starting at 6pm, Sylas and Maddy's holds a BOGO single scoop for college students. Don't forget your university ID!

8. Pita Pit

Similar to Subway, Pita Pit offers a great, healthy menu that is supplemented by a very affordable cost. Create your own sandwich and wrap it in some pita bread and you've found yourself a quick lunch that is sure to make your stomach happy.

9. Chipotle

Who doesn't love Chipotle?! Luckily enough, there are three in Lawrence itself.

10. Hot Box Cookies

And if you have any room left in your tummy after a day's full of fabulous food, you should stop by Hot Box for a Monster or red velvet cookie. Open late, you can never go wrong with stopping in Hot Box for a late-night snack.