My food choices have been influenced by social norms in two distinct phases: pre-college, and my current time away at college. While living in a home family environment, I was more likely to have a sit-down dinner each night, and more likely to eat nutritionally balanced meals. There was also a higher chance that I would eat breakfast, as my family tends to eat in the mornings in a social setting. While at college, I have less time to prepare meals, and do not have as easy access to wholesome, home made foods. Because I usually have class in the morning, there is a low chance that I eat breakfast on a regular basis. If I do, it tends to be something quick such as a granola bar or just a piece or fruit. Further, because of the social setting I am placed in, I am more likely to get fast food or order delivery than I am at home.

Food Choice is a major component of this module, and it is something that influenced my experience. The food choices we are able to make is a significant societal issue today. In my case, I need to balance proper nutrition and convenience, as well as low cost. Low cost is even more influential in my food choices at school because many of my meals at home are purchased and cooked by members of my family. Convenience also has a massive impact on my food choices; at home I can count on having a healthy dinner at night, at school I need to balance putting a meal together while keeping within my time constraints. This will usually impact the nutritional quality of the meals I make (or order). Overall we must balance these aspects as best we can, which is what I believe the societal norm should be.