Adulting is hard but cookies make it better!
Let’s face it: lectures can sometimes feel like a long journey through a vast sea of information, where professors try to fill students’ brains with knowledge while students are trying their best to stay awake. We’ve all experienced those moments when our stomachs growl louder than a train engine. But, here’s the secret that can get you through those long hours — snacks!
Snacking during lectures isn’t just about silencing your stomach, but it’s also a beloved part of the student experience. However, there are some unwritten rules that can turn your snacking experience from awkward to absolutely delightful!
So, grab your favorite treat and let’s dive into the essential (and sometimes hilarious) rules of snacking during lectures.
Using the stealth technique
First comes the stealth technique. Nobody wants to be “that person” who disrupts the class with loud wrappers or overpowering smells.
Picture this, you’re in a quiet lecture on the history of art and you decide it’s the perfect moment to crack open a bag of chips. Suddenly, the loud crinkle slices through the silence like an arrow and all eyes are on you instead of the professor!
To avoid this epic fail, opt for snacks that are low-key and easy to munch. Granola bars are the best, but make sure to unwrap them as quietly as possible. Dried fruit or rice cakes are the perfect choices! They’re light, quiet and won’t leave a trail of crumbs (no evidence should be left behind).
Remember, the goal is to snack stealthily and keep your focus on the lecture.
Perfecting your timing
Timing is everything in the game of snacking in class. Just like you wouldn’t jump into a pool right after eating, you shouldn’t dive into snacks during the most intense parts of a lecture. Wait for the professor to finish a complicated point or take a breather.
Keep an eye on their body language, when they start pacing or flipping through notes, it’s your cue! This is your moment to stealthily reach for that delicious hidden snack in your backpack.
Master this move and you’ll feel like a secret agent on a mission to enjoy your treats without losing track of the lecture. Snack and savour while staying engaged in your studies.
Be cautious while sharing food
Sharing can be a sweet gesture, but it can also lead to chaos in the lecture hall. Open a snack during class and suddenly everyone is glancing your way as if you’ve revealed a hidden treasure!
If you decide to share, choose snacks that are easy to pass around, like mini cookies or individually wrapped treats. Wait for a lecture to slow down then casually offer them to your classmates. It can be a nice way to connect with others and brighten their day.
However, if you’re feeling more like Joey and want to keep your snacks all to yourself, that’s perfectly OK too! Just enjoy your treats without guilt. After all, sometimes it’s nice to have a little party all by yourself.
Handle your drinks with care
Let’s get real, spills are the ultimate snack nightmare. One moment of carelessness and you’re in a sticky situation. To avoid disaster, stick to snacks that are mess-proof (accidentally spilling yogurt on your clothes can ruin your whole day).
Carry a spill-proof container for anything that might leak or crumble. If you do spill, don’t panic! Assess the damage, clean up quickly and keep it cool (just don’t overthink it, it’s normal). Your classmates will appreciate your efforts and you won’t have to live with the name, “the Clumsy King.”
The lecture wraps up and you’ve successfully navigated your snacking adventure. Before you head for the door, take a quick look around. Are there any chips on the floor or a little cookie hiding on the sides of your seat? Make it your mission to leave the space tidy.
Unwrapping snacking stories
I spoke to students at Humber Polytechnic about their thoughts on snacking in class.
Hiba Zahir, a creative advertising student, believes it’s totally fine to enjoy snacking in class, especially if you’ve skipped breakfast or have an early class.
She remembers a hilarious moment from school when she and a friend tried to sneak snacks under their desks, only to be caught by their teacher, who could see the food and commented that they might as well put it in front of the table. But, in post-secondary, Zahir feels much more free to snack without sneaking around!
I also spoke with Jaitra Joshi, a film and multiplatform storytelling student with a passion for oranges. He’s all about enjoying snacking responsibly and believes they should definitely be allowed in class. Joshi quietly munches on his oranges and even shares them with classmates, turning the lecture hall into a little fresh fruit fest.
“Snacks can be great, but it’s all about how you enjoy them,” Joshi said. So, if you see an orange making its rounds, you’ll know who’s spreading the joy!
Snacking during lectures can be a fun and enjoyable part of your academic journey. Just remember to navigate these unwritten rules with some humour and care. Embrace stealthy bites, time your munches perfectly and be open to sharing it with others.
With a bit of practice, you’ll not only satisfy those cravings but also keep the classroom vibes positive.
So, gear up, grab those granola bars and snack wisely! Who knows, you might just become the legendary snack master of your lecture hall, inspiring others to munch with style!
Enjoy every bite and make the most of your snacking adventure!
Feature image courtesy of Serghei Savchiuc via Unsplash.
Can’t decide on a place to eat during your lunch break? Check out food spots to try on campus!
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