Going back to school is no excuse to give up on your New Year’s resolutions, as using NIU’s resources can help you accomplish your goals.

College life is notorious for its unhealthy eating and drinking habits.

Although students can be intimidated by the stress of school work and maintaining a social life, it’s still possible to follow through with these common resolutions. It’s also a great time to explore the resources offered at NIU.

Understandably, many people resolve to commit to a healthier way of eating to prevent unwanted health issues.

Richard Fritz, director of Residential Dining, suggests students focus on moderation and not dieting when considering healthier eating habits.

Eating healthy doesn’t have to mean salads for every meal of the day; baked and fried foods can also be a part of a balanced diet.

“Balance what you take in,” Fritz said. “People [need to] know what their body requires.”

Menus for each hall and nutritional information for the meals are provided on the Housing & Dining website. The dining menu is atbit.ly/KSDtBD and the dining nutritional facts link is at bit.ly/1iE4cxJ.

Visiting the site can give you a pretty good idea of what you want for lunch and how much you should consume.

Fritz said the dining halls work with interns and graduate assistants who can offer information and suggestions pertaining to dietary matters.

Also, the dining halls accept suggestions from their patrons.

“Suggestions are always taken, whatever is best for our customers,” Fritz said.

Along with eating healthier, many students may be determined to adopt a more active and energetic lifestyle.

The Recreation Center is a great place for students to achieve this resolution.

Students can work out in the Rec’s facilities by presenting their OneCard at the entrance.

Rec staff member Rigo Banuelos also suggests students enroll in group fitness classes. The facility offers everything from yoga to boot camp.

The Rec will host New Year, New U from 4 to 8:30 p.m. Jan. 28. The program is composed of group fitness classes that are established help you figure out which workout best suits you.

Classes include Zumba, a combination of dance and exercise, and spin, an indoor cycling workout.

The classes will be free of charge.