Date of Last Revision
2023-05-02 14:15:59
Major
Exercise Science - PrePhysical Therapy
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Education
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2015
Abstract
Students entering their freshmen year of college face a variety of lifestyle changes. These changes often include increased caloric consumption, increased levels of stress, decreased physical activity, and increased alcohol consumption. Because of these lifestyle changes, it is commonly asserted that freshman gain weight throughout their first year in college. A common expression used to describe this weight gain is the “Freshman 15,” which asserts that the average student gains 15 pounds during their freshman year. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to gather data regarding the on-campus freshmen’s diet and exercise habits. The data gathered was used to analyze whether a student’s location on-campus at The University of Akron correlates with their diet and exercise habits and weight gain during freshman year. METHODS: A survey was provided via email to freshman students who are currently living on campus. RESULTS: Average weight change was 5.13 pounds, including freshman who did not gain weight or who lost weight. Amongst freshman who gained weight, average weight gain was 9.39 pounds. Residence hall location did not significantly affect weight gain (p = 0.056). Residence hall location significantly affects the most often frequented dining location (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION: Residence hall location appears to affect freshman diet habits, but there is not strong enough evidence to show that it influences weight gain.
Research Sponsor
Judith Juvancic-Heltzel
First Reader
Laura Richardson
Second Reader
Melissa Smith
Recommended Citation
McQuillen, Daniel G., "Freshman 15: How The University of Akron is affected per residence hall" (2015). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 57.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/57