Food plays an important role in student life, especially during busy college days when quick and convenient meals become a priority. At Griffith College, Gather and Gather is a popular spot where students gather to grab lunch, take a break, and recharge. With so many options available, it is interesting to see what students actually enjoy eating on a daily basis. To explore this, short interviews were carried out with students and canteen staff to find out the most popular meals and personal favourites at Gather and Gather.
From the responses gathered, it is clear that students tend to go for meals that are quick, filling, and satisfying. Many students mentioned items like cakes, cinamon roll, chips, and cofee as their go to choices. These meals are not only affordable but also easy to grab between lectures.
One student described their choice as quick and easy, while another said they simply go for whatever tastes good and fills me up. This shows that for most students, convenience plays a big role in their decision making. Taste and portion size also seem to matter more than anything else.
While some students occasionally consider healthier options, many admitted that their choices are influenced by time and availability. With tight schedules and back-to-back classes, there is often little time to think too much about what to eat.
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have also influenced food trends, with students sometimes trying meals they have seen online. However, in a busy college environment, practical choices often take priority over trends. Speaking to staff at Gather & Gather provided another interesting perspective. According to them, certain meals are consistently popular among students. Items like chips, burgers, and wraps are often ordered the most, especially during peak lunch hours. One staff member mentioned that students usually go for “quick and familiar options,” while healthier meals are available but not always the first choice. This highlights how habits and routines influence food decisions in a fast-paced environment.
To capture these perspectives in real time, short-form video interviews were conducted with students and staff at Gada & Gada.
The video highlights a range of responses, showing how personal preference, convenience, and taste all play a role in shaping student food choices.
Food choices at Gather and Gather reflect the reality of student life busy schedules, limited time, and the need for quick and satisfying meals. While there is a variety of options available, most students tend to choose what is convenient and enjoyable rather than focusing too much on health or trends. By looking at both student and staff perspectives, it becomes clear that everyday routines strongly influence what ends up on students’ plates. Ultimately, Gada & Gada remains an important part of campus life, offering meals that fit the needs and preferences of Griffith College students.
