You asked:

I’m on a meal plan, but am I allowed to cook in my room if I want to?

Of course. Even if you have a meal plan, most dining halls have limited hours, so sometimes a microwave or hot pot are your only resources. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean you have to survive on ramen noodles and easy mac. You can totally get creative with your food prep if you put your mind to it. Plenty of cookbooks -- including those made specially for college kids -- are packed with recipes that only require a few ingredients and minimal prep.

Some frozen-food companies offer steam-in-the-bag veggies, which makes eating green things a whole lot easier. Pay attention to your microwave size, as most dorm micros -- particularly micro-fridge combos you have in your room -- are smaller than what you’re probably used to. That means that some items, like family-size trays of frozen lasagna, will not fit. Some dorms have kitchens, so if you really like to cook, it may be worth packing a few pots, pans and utensils.

If you’re not crazy about cooking, snacks like granola bars, peanut butter crackers, fruit cups and yogurt are good to have on hand since they’re easy to stow in a closet or fridge and a long shelf life. And never underestimate the power of microwave popcorn for hitting the spot. Just don’t burn it -- you’ll stink up the whole floor. 

Name: Liz Cruger
School: College of William and Mary
Year: Senior
Major: Psychology and English lit
Her deal: This is Liz’s second year as an R.A. for freshmen. She is also involved in several campus activities, including pep band and the belly dance club.

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