The Essential Food Armamentarium for Zoom Dental School

The dental school admission cycle is traditionally a grueling process plagued with anxiety, existentialism, and questions such as “Why hasn’t AADSAS verified by transcripts yet?”, “Should I wear a non-black colored blazer to stand out?”, and “Why is waiting to December a thing?”. Little did we know that in 2020, we would all (basically) end up in the same dental school, Zoom College of Dentistry. The COVID-19 pandemic has complicated life in every possible aspect, including how we learn. Switching to an online format and learning in isolation of your dental school friends was a difficult transition for most of us. Despite the negatives associated with this change, I’d like to focus on big positive today – open access to snacking and eating anything within reach while still being “in school”. I am happy to present to you – The Essential Food Armamentarium for Zoom Dental School:

Bagels

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The perfect breakfast food to eat in bed while you are attentively watching a lecture. The fact that bagels are so versatile is an added bonus! Scramble some eggs and fry some bacon to make a breakfast sandwich or stick with a classic and lather your favorite cream cheese on!

Coffee/Tea

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This is truly a MUST HAVE! Whatever your preferred caffeine delivery mode is, I’m sure we have all found an ever growing appreciation for our friends – coffee and tea. Who knew it took that much energy to open your computer??

Chocolate Covered Fruit

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This might be my #1 go-to snack! It is rare that you can find a snack that is mostly chocolate but you can call it “fruit”. This is a pick-me-up when the Zoom fatigue sets in or when you’re in a crunch while studying for a test!

Cheese

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Sorry lactose intolerant friends – you have Lactaid, right? Turn the breakout room into a cheese party! Each person brings their favorite type of cheese and with so many shapes and kinds, the possibilities are endless! Enjoy the cheesy goodness and catch up with your classmates, but don’t forget to submit the group assignment at the end of the session!

Trail Mix

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Alright you health nuts, this is for you! And yes, I realize this is probably the healthiest option I have on here – but hey, it’s been a tough year!!! My favorite thing about trail mix is that there are so many different options to choose from. I have also been known to be indecisive when choosing a snack. Trail mix allows me to stop sweating the choice and focus on enjoying a wonderful snack combo!

Meal Subscriptions

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If you are more interested in a complete meal, there are so many options for meal delivery services! These are also a great option for pandemic life since the groceries are delivered right to your door along with the recipes! I subscribe to EveryPlate and have loved the opportunity to expand on my chef abilities by making risottos and gnocchi and using ingredients I’ve never heard of and can’t pronounce! Also check out their student discount through Unidays!

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This post was contributed by Ryan Foree, Chapter Co-Leader at ADEA COSRF District 2 and student at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine ('22).