Will power will be tested across NIU’s campus for the next few weeks.

Wednesday marked the first day of Lent, when many Christians customarily sacrifice something for 40 days, until Easter.

Lent starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on the day before Easter, Holy Saturday. The 40 days people have to give something up symbolizes the 40 days Noah spent in his ark.

With Lent starting, some students are deciding whether they are going to give something up.

“This year, I plan on giving up soda,” said Jeremy Goffrier, a senior meteorology major. “I drink way too much soda, so I figured on giving it up for Lent because I know it’s going to be something that’s really hard for me to do.”

When it comes to Lent, some observers do not think very much of it. They don’t get upset if they end up going against what they were going to stay away from. However, students like Goffrier take it seriously and stay strong by not giving in.

“Being a devout Catholic, I take Lent very seriously,” Goffrier said. “I’m not only giving something up, but I also try to pray more and read my Bible more. I also get involved with my church by doing several functions to raise money for the less fortunate.”

Some students decide not give anything up at all.

“When I was younger, I gave up carrots once, but it didn’t last very long because I didn’t understand the concept of Lent,” said Alex Hogan, a sophomore art major. “When I eventually did understand Lent, I didn’t want to give up something I liked, so I just stopped doing it. I think that giving up something you do a lot or like is admirable and a good thing.”