Some people underestimate the schedule of college students.  We are expected to attend class every day, study to make decent grades, maybe have a job and all while maintaining a strict social calendar. But let’s not forget, we have to find time to eat and sleep, too!For many, the college experience is the first time they are on their own and have to fend for themselves, cooking included. So most college students don’t budget the time to prepare a well-balanced dinner, and some just don’t care about it, which leaves students with few options. There will always be Ramen Noodles, everyone’s favorite last choice dinner. Or, you can either fill the freezer with frozen dinners and fill the pantry with canned soups or order take out from various locations in Baton Rouge. And let’s not lie, at some point, we have all done the latter. But there comes a time in everyone’s life where they have to learn how to cook. I’m not talking about a five course meal, just something that you can throw together to survive.  Simple meals like chicken and vegetables or pasta and sauce will not only fill you up but also save your money.Americans spend over $110 billion each year on fast food, with each person spending about $1,800 each year, according to financialnut.com. Think of all the things you could buy with that, or if you want to continue being financially responsible, you could save it.The key is learning the basics. If you can press the buttons on the microwave or boil water, you can put so many different meals together. If you really want to get crazy, you can turn on the oven or the stove. It’s really not as scary as it seems. Just make sure to turn everything off when you’re done, which seems to be the part most people forget about. Just because the cooking is done doesn’t mean the appliances stop working.Don’t forget to season the food with a little salt and pepper and maybe some Tony Chachere’s for this Southern girl.Another great advantage about staying in and cooking is that it’s healthier. Everyone knows about the plague of the freshman 15, and the dining halls certainly don’t help. But avoiding fast food restaurants will definitely help slow the weight gain.Also, don’t think you have to follow a recipe to cook a meal. As much as I hate to admit it, I have gotten used to winging it. I like plans and schedules, but that is one thing I have learned while being in college.  Don’t think you need a stocked pantry and refrigerator to make a meal. Sometimes it’s actually fun to whip up a meal just by using random ingredients you find throughout the kitchen.As cheesy as this is, cooking also brings people together. Try cooking for your roommates one night or grilling some food by the pool. If everyone contributes, it’s something different to do, and it saves money in the process.As easy as it is to have your mom cook for you for the rest of your life, it’s not possible.Being able to cook is just another part of growing up and being independent. Besides, you don’t want to be “that guy” who orders from Plucker’s every night.–Contact Brittany Davis at [email protected]