The eNotes Blog Celiac University Tips for Eating Gluten-Free onCampus

Celiac University Tips for Eating Gluten-Free onCampus Living a gluten-free life is tough enough no fluffy, flaky pastries, no thick pizza crusts, and definitely no sandwiches. But being gluten-free (or having any other dietary restrictions) on a university campus can be a whole new level of tough. When all of your friends are hungry from studying at 1:00 am and want to go out for pizza or grab snacks from the market downstairs, you have to either head home early, or politely ask for a  gluten-free option. Remember what I said about no thick pizza crusts? Gluten-free pizza crusts tend be thin and dough-y (ick), and after the first time your friends are subjected to what tastes like an undercooked piece of cardboard you just might not be invited to the next study party. So how do you eat gluten-free on your new university campus and still have a great time? Stock up your dorm Most university campuses dont offer gluten-free options (yet!), and those that do dont have much to boast about, so go to your local market or grocery store and see if it has a gluten-free section. If it does, this is where you stock up. Also, hit the fresh fruits and veggies section! Things that naturally dont contain gluten are always a safe bet, and can also be a healthy choice. Once your dorm is stocked, make sure your backpack is, too. Its not going to be as easy for you to grab food on the go as it is for your classmates, so be prepared. Its always better to have a snack on you than to be hungry and unable to find anything gluten-free to eat. Know your territory Get familiar with the restaurants in your area that offer gluten-free options. Again, when everyone else will have the option of hitting the cafeteria, you wont. Because gluten-free food can be a little more expensive, get familiar with the places that offer gluten-free food, and pick a few favorites. You can search for restaurants with options here. Lay down the law (sort of) If you leave to hit the books with some friends and you know theres the possibility of eating afterward, bring something with you. This can seem like a lot of work, and it is, but avoiding gluten can affect even your social life. When youre first getting to know people, making a bit more effort with with your dietary restriction can help make a good impression. However, after a bit of time, tell your friends that a compromise is definitely in order. You dont get much choice when it comes to eating, and they should be understanding of that. Suggest only eating at restaurants that offer gluten-free options, when ordering pizza, order one thats gluten-free and friends in the group can trade off who splits it with you. Bottom line; make it clear that your dietary restriction isnt going to go away, and it has to be considered. Eating gluten-free on a university campus is completely doable, it just takes a little extra work. Do you have any advice for living gluten-free on campus? Share your gluten-free experiences with us!

The Mighty Pen Persuasive Writing

The Mighty Pen Persuasive Writing The Mighty Pen: Persuasive Writing It’s said, â€Å"The pen is mightier than the sword.† To be sure, many heroes across the ages have inspired quiet revolutions with little more than words. Countless writers have impacted readers with their gift. Writing is a powerful tool for conveying thoughts, defending ideas, and persuading audience. What Comprises Persuasive Writing Persuasive writing is a serious form of writing about a debatable topic. Writing persuasively requires that you have a strong idea for which you are fighting. Persuasive writing benefits: Lawyers Politicians Activists Researchers Forms of Persuasive Writing While you often find persuasive pieces in the editorial sections of newspapers or magazines, they can also take the form of: Essays Research Papers Presentations Speeches Tips for Persuasive Writing: Choose a Stance When writing a persuasive piece, make your message clear so readers know the side you’re taking. Flip-flopping your stance create audience mistrust. Choose a side and defend it with well-researched facts. Rely on Facts Even if you are defending an opinion, it must be an educated one, based on hard truths. Find scientific studies and academic articles to back up your argument. Look for Credible Sources When choosing facts to support your argument, use credible sources. Quoting paid blogs or outdated research materials will repel those expecting a serious piece of writing. Credible sources of information may include, but are not limited to: Academic journals Official websites of credible institutions Recent peer-reviewed research papers Experts in the field â€Å"Sandwich Techniques† Psychology suggests that people are more likely to remember beginnings and endings, rather than the middle. This is called the â€Å"primacy and recency† effect. The sandwich technique employs this effect. With this approach, strongest arguments are made first and last and less powerful arguments are placed in the middle. This way, you begin and end your piece with strength. Persuasive writing is a science and an art. It requires both technique and grace to craft a piece that can convince a reader. If you’re having trouble creating a persuasive essay, don’t fret. Call at (647) 436-7280 for assistance.