College students thrive on EasyMac and Ramen Noodles; they are cheap, quick and convenient. But these microwavable meals have a major downside. While they are lacking in price, they are also lacking in nutritional value. These inexpensive fast food choices may seem more affordable, but really they are costing us our health. It is important to look at the types of food we are taking in while we are at school and to keep track of our health, as well as our bank accounts.

At home, my family takes care to eat mostly organic foods and we try to stay away from foods high in sodium and fats. I love fruits and vegetables, and I eat a balanced diet. But once I go to school, it is much harder to eat organic foods. Organic food is much more expensive which, to a college student, makes it less appealing. If I had an unlimited budget, I would definitely buy all organic food. But it is just not realistic for me to purchase food that is that expensive. Every time I eat a pack Ramen Noodles, I know that the sodium is slowly killing me, but it feels like there is nothing else I can do to end my hunger.

I will be living in a dorm that has a kitchen this coming year, so I won't have a meal plan. This means that I will be completely on my own when it comes to food. Luckily living in New York City means there are plenty of options for supermarkets and restaurants nearby. On the other hand, New York City also means that prices will be high for all foods. That makes it even easier to turn to microwavable macaroni and cheese. But it is a goal of mine for this coming year to eat organic food and maintain a healthy diet. It will be hard, but my health is more important to me than the convenience of having food at school.