Gluten Free College 101
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Gluten free college students have been in the news lately as more get vocal about their school's lack of accommodations. There's nothing more heartbreaking then hearing about a student struggling to eat well - and safely - due to a poor dining options. Accommodations vary widely between schools and it's important to know exactly how well those on your list can feed you before move in day.
How It Started
I'll never forget the morning I got the email. It was from a parent of a gluten free child who's daughter was attending an area college. She was distraught because her daughter was struggling. She couldn't find safe food to eat on campus, wasn't making headway in speaking with the dining staff and had gotten sick a few times. Her Mom pleaded with me as an Advocate for help. She even asked if I would be willing to make her some hot meals, knowing I had a gluten free kitchen.
As an advocate, I was angry. As a parent of a child with Celiac, I was heartbroken. I imagined myself, miles away from my child, and not being able to help.
Soon after, I was contacted by other parents at the school with children experiencing the same. I had to do what I could to help.
Since then, I've had the privilege of working with gluten free high school and college students - and colleges themselves - for the past few years around gluten free dining. I've also completed the Beyond Celiac GREAT Schools, Colleges and Camps training course.
I've sat in on meeting with gluten free students and schools, talked to students before, during and after college and had conversations with administrators at colleges and universities.
Patterns Emerged
There are definitely patterns and Action Items that have emerged from these experiences that I've seen contribute to the best outcomes.
One important action item: asking questions.
The RIGHT questions to ask when:
🔸 On College Visits
🔸 Talking to Admission Reps, Dining Staff and Dietitians
🔸 Touring the Cafeteria
🔸 Connecting with the Office of Student Services
Knowing the right questions to ask is a key component of understanding a school’s ability to accommodate. Become a part of our Gluten Free College Community and learn what you need to know, BEFORE you go. Join here: https://mailchi.mp/57d8ae1903dd/gfcollege
Baltimore Gluten Free connects people with vetted gluten free resources, news and events. Visit our website at www.baltimoreglutenfree.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.