Let’s talk about Shafer
Contributing Writer Madison Del Sontro at Shafer Dining Hall. Photo by Bilan Osman
Madison Del Sontro, Contributing Writer
As college students, we are at a critical time in our lives. Our way of living is changed, our thinking is challenged, major decisions are made, and new lifestyle choices are implemented. During this time, however, it’s important to keep in mind our developing bodies.
Growing individuals in their early to late teens should receive roughly 2,400 calories per day. Keep in mind that is a rough estimate, and to most this is the bare minimum we need to digest in order to function.
If we focus on the dining plans offered and the food readily available on campus, VCU’s Shafer Dining Hall is one of the most easy, affordable and efficient dining options. Especially for freshmen.
In fact, this is where most students eat all three meals. Shafer offers a variety of options to choose from while serving their food buffet style. For this, newcomers typically believe Shafer gives you the best bang for your buck.
As a freshman who has only been around campus for a handful of weeks, I have observed few things of interest in the dining hall. Plenty of food is provided, but it lacks variety. There’s all-day, everyday pizza and sandwiches, but a lack of non-typical “American” food.
There is an abundance of desserts and chicken nuggets, but a dwindling amount of fruit and vegetables. While Shafer gives student’s the feel of choices and variety, why does it feel as though my options have already been made for me?
What does it mean for my health and energy when I only have pizza to eat everyday because other options are dwindling, sold out or not as appealing?
When talking to my friend, now a second year student at VCU, about Shafer, she was quick to tell me, “the food options they have are worse than last year.” When asked to elaborate, she said the dining hall no longer has its soft serve machine, the quality of the food has decreased and there are just typically not as many options to choose from anymore.
I have witnessed those who are vegan struggling to find an accommodating meal as well. For example, one student was eating only potatoes as Shafer was out of their meat alternative. I’ve watched a boy be denied vegan-friendly nuggets and forced to settle with just fries.
I’ve seen those with dietary restrictions eating bland salads. I’ve watched the disappointment on the faces of student’s whose religious practices prevent them from eating the only things the dining hall provides in bounty —pork, beef, eggs and dairy.
A growing body needs the correct nutrition though, does it not? According to LibreTexts, individuals need to eat 10% to 35% of their daily calories in protein. Protein is responsible for repairing and building muscles.
It’s responsible for giving us energy. It is one of the necessities for giving us life. Without it, our body faces damage and disease. Our body turns against itself.
While there is protein in animal meat, there is also a large, diverse amount of amino acids that can be found in plants and animal-substitutes. However, in my little time in VCU, I have yet to see a vegan option that is not lettuce or a handful of beans.
In fact, I have found myself deterred from Shafer and exploring other options, even if the alternatives are on the pricier side. Shafer has left me feeling as though malnutrition is my only option.
While I do not mind a mediocre pasta or taco from time to time, I find myself bored of the predictable, unaccommodating options. So let’s talk, Shafer. Should our health be compromised for the sake of glorified meals?
