Meet Maria. Maria is a junior theater major and an orientation leader for her college. Maria is also my cousin! Between rehearsals, meetings, and helping first-years feel at home, her schedule is packed. In addition, Maria has learned how to manage something that often complicates college life—severe food allergies.

“As you know, I’ve had food allergies since I was a kid,” Maria shared. “When I started college, I worried that being in leadership positions would make things harder—especially with all the social events, club dinners, and cast parties. But I realized that being open early on actually makes things easier.”

Starting with Honesty

Maria’s biggest tip is to start the conversation right away.
“When I meet new people, especially in leadership roles or group settings, I bring it up naturally,” she said. “If someone says, ‘We’re ordering pizza for the meeting,’ I’ll just say, ‘Great! Just a heads up—I have food allergies, so I’ll bring my own.’ Most people are super understanding. It sets the tone that my health isn’t negotiable, but it’s also not awkward.”

As a freshman orientation leader, Maria often works with dining staff and student life administrators to ensure first-year events include allergy-friendly options. “I make sure the welcome barbecue has an allergy-free section and that our icebreaker snacks are labeled,” she explained. “If I can make a few new students feel safer, it’s totally worth it. I am also open about my food allergies with new students. I have had so many new students share that they also have food allergies and want to talk more about how I have navigated allergies in college. I like being a support person for them and helping them not only feel welcome, but also comfortable and safe.

Her Advice for Other Students

“Don’t let fear hold you back,” Maria said. “Being upfront and proactive about your allergies doesn’t make you a burden, it makes you strong. People can’t support you if they don’t know what you need.”

She also recommends connecting with campus leaders early. “Orientation, clubs, dining staff…. they all want to help. The more you advocate for yourself, the easier it becomes to live your best college life.”

Before we concluded, I asked Maria if she had a favorite snack. “I love candy! Anything gummy! But, my mom always sends me this box of chocolates on my birthday and special occasions. They are so decadent and so worth the splurge!”

_{As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.}

• Print
• Mail
• ShareCopied to clipboard