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GFF College Dining Survey Responses

Gettysburg College

Gettysburg

Pennsylvania

Survey Date:

Jan 31, 2019

Survey 1 of 1

Student:

Freshman

With:

Celiac Disease

Student's Summary Assessment:

College Dining:

A-

Surrounding Area:

A-

Rationale for Grades Given

They have a whole section for gluten free food in the kitchen. They understand cross contamination. I just wish they had more food options.

Pings chinese food or Appalachian Brewing Company.

Details About this Student's Food Restrictions

How many years ago were you diagnosed with food allergies or celiac disease?

5+

If you indicated celiac or gluten intolerance, how sensitive are you to gluten?

Extremely: React to even small traces

Add details to help us better understand your food restrictions (e.g. sensitivity level, potential reaction, need for EPI pen)

Completed original celiac survey which did not ask about other food allergies

Details About this Student's College Dining Experience

Does your college handle food restrictions as you expected when you decided to attend?

Somewhat what I expected

Have you had a reation from eating in your dining hall?

NO

If Yes, describe each incident and how your school responded

​

Did you register your food restriction with the disabilities office? If yes, describe

Yes I did. I spoke with dining hall services before coming to campus and they expressed to me about their options.

Are there resources to help with nutritious, safe dining (e.g. dietician)? If yes, describe

I can speak to chefs and nutritionists. Although, at Gettysburg College they have a section in the kitchen with about 6 different food options that are all gluten free with no possibility of cross contamination.

If you were in charge of dining, what would you change? Would your school be open to suggestions?

I would make sure there are more options in the dining hall. Online and on a screen as you walk in, the menu is written out with all the options for everyone that day. On the menu it makes what foods are vegetarian, vegan, and what contains pork. Although, it never notes what is gluten free! I would make sure to note if anything is gluten free and add more dessert and savory options.

Describe your biggest challenge managing your food restrictions at college and how you deal with it

For me, I have very limited options for food. I go to bed hungry at times. It is a struggle to see other students eat whatever they desires, from their famous cookies to various breads and pasta dishes. I still haven’t quite figured out how to manage it. If anything I have just gotten used to it. I have a lot of snacks in my dorm.

Advice for Incoming Students:

Housing:

Did your food restrictions impact your housing decisions?  Any dorm recommendations

I had to live in a typical hall with one roomate. That is all I could get for freshman, other than a possible single. Within my dorm I have my own micro fridge that was given to me. Although, for next year I am trying to make sure I can get an apartment with a kitchen. Being able to cook for myself will be so helpful.

Dining Halls:

Any advice for managing dining halls?  Favorite dining halls? Any to avoid?

I would make sure you know what options you have prior to attending any school. Eating is a critical part of every day and your success as a student. Speak to chefs, to dining services, and to nutritionists. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is their job.

Meal Plans:

Describe your meal plans over the year(s). What's mandatory? Any suggestions? 

I have unlimited swipes to my dining hall and then $50 dining dollars at some of our other food swipes per semester. I don’t have enough dining dollars. But I can change my plan for next year to have less meals and more dining dollars. At my dining hall there is a section in the back of kitchen for gluten free food only.

Dorms:

Any advice for eating in the dorms? Favorite snacks? Places that deliver? 

Make sure you have snacks! I love having gluten free pretzels and chips in the dorm. I do have some beef jerky, Annie’s GF mac and cheese, gf granola. Look in town to see if anywhere delivers. Dominos GF pizza is always an option!

Getting Started:

What should students do before school starts or when they first arrive?

Be prepared for change. It is not like home where you are used to knowing the resturants that are good with GF, or like home where criss contamination might be understood. You have to search around to find answers. Soon it will get more comfortable because you will know where you can eat safely. Be prepared for students eating a lot of foods you cant. You have to have snacks with you just in case you get hungry!

Socializing:

Advice on managing parties or dinners out with friends?

It is so hard. You can’t have beer and hard liquor is not always available. I would try to bring stuff from home to keep in your room. Bring your own alcohol out to be safe.

Other:

Any other advice or comments?

Living with Celiac Disease is far from easy. It adds a whole other layer of adjustment when it comes to college. More people need to be aware of the struggles. My parents and I have had to call the school many times to express concerns. They have added a panini press just from gluten free people in the back and have added individual nutella packs to avoid cross contamination. It is not easy. It is so important to self advocate!

Meal Plans:

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