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Got the Munchies? 5 Ways to Find Free Food at University

12th January 2016 Posted by: Tom Hagues

EVERYONE loves a freebie, especially so when said freebie is edible and delicious. Finding food when it’s being dished out for nothing is every student’s dream, especially when budgets are already stretched for some. Here’s a quick guide on where you can, and might be able to, find some free nourishment.

1. Smart thinking

This is a company that proves a great little box that comes through your door with a mixture of feel-good, healthy snacks. Think nuts, flapjacks, raisins, olives and crisp breads and you’ve got it – and the best thing is that if you’re clever about it, you can get one without having to pay. The company offers its first box for half price, and you can find vouchers that knock even more money off. If you put the effort in, you’re likely to get one for free easily. Be warned though, you might have to pay for subsequent deliveries.

2. Fake an interest

There are loads of stalls at Fresher’s fairs that offer free goodies to anyone who’s walking past. It’s a ploy to get people involved in their society or group and, to be honest, it’s probably a pretty successful one. The idea here is to sweep your way around the stalls, taking free food in return for a smile and a quick chat about the society. “Yes, I’d love to hear more about the Japanese Tea Society, perhaps you could give me one of those cookies while you explain it to me?” You might be lucky and find that the Spanish Cooking Society has got a lot of samples on offer, but get in quick because students are a hungry crowd…

3. Work for it

Students make perfect waiters – they’re young, full of energy and are free at all random times, which suits shift work in restaurants and bars perfectly. If you’re willing to get off the sofa and get a job in hospitality you might find a lot of employers offer a staff meal. It’s just another dinner you won’t have to think about and, of course, you’ll be earning at the same time. Imagine getting paid and a free dinner - nice work if you can get it.

4. Get online

Wowcher and Groupon are fine examples of websites that offer great deals and vouchers. More often or not, they’ll include a voucher that entitles you to a free dessert or even an entire free dinner if you download the voucher and stick to the terms and conditions. This one is a bit of a hopeful choice because you’ll have to read the endless emails to find something great but hey, three-course dinner for the price of one course isn’t bad at all.

5. Taking part

A lot of universities have large psychology departments and almost all of them have extensive science ones. These people need guinea pigs (in the form of hungry students) and they’ll usually offer a cash reward for sitting through a short test or experiment. Look closely for other rewards – some might offer lunch if it’s a day-long thing, and don’t be shy to email them and ask whether they’ll be providing any sustenance for your willingness to take part in their Mad Scientist-esque experiment. 

Find out more about student food, accommodation, money and entertainment at our Student Life section.


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