What do most college students eat regularly?

So, I'm trying to figure out a couple of things about college life, and one of them is food. I'm curious to know, what do most college students eat on a regular basis? Are meal plans commonly used or do students cook often? What types of food do they typically have?

Most college students' meals are governed by their individual preferences, budgets, culinary abilities, and the food options available to them on or off-campus. However, there are some common patterns.

A significant number of students rely on college meal plans, especially if they live in dormitories. Meal plans typically grant access to on-campus dining halls that serve a variety of foods, from salads and soups to burgers and pizza. Some universities even offer options for specialized diets, such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free meals.

Others may cook for themselves, particularly those who live off-campus or in apartments with kitchens. This provides a chance to control what goes into their meals, leading to potentially healthier choices. Such students may prepare simple dishes like pasta, stir-fry, or sandwiches. Others might resort to instant meals or frozen dishes when time is limited due to studies or work commitments.

As for snacks, items such as granola bars, yogurt, fruit, and nuts are fairly common. Drinks might include coffee, tea, water, and occasionally energy drinks, particularly during exams when late-night study sessions are more common.

It's crucial to note that eating habits differ greatly among college students based on their individual needs and circumstances. The use of meal plans versus cooking often also evolves as a student progresses through their years in college. While a first-year student may fully utilize their university's meal plan, a senior may have shifted to cooking more frequently due to changes in housing or dietary preferences.