Freshmen, there are two things you will learn your first semester.

One, if you happen to find a good parking spot, don’t let anything short of an emergency trip to the hospital move you from that space.

Two, time and campus life do not necessarily mesh well, so before you know it, you’ll be starving and need food quickly.

Parking opportunities are few and far between on campus, so freshmen should probably take advantage of every opportunity within walking distance, especially if that place is catering to your please-not-ramen-again cravings.

There’s always old faithful IHOP (2 miles west of campus), but by the time your legs get you there, you’ll be too tired to enjoy those ridiculously delicious pancakes.

There are restaurants all around campus, some that stay open late as well (helpful when you need some comfort food after late-night study sessions).

The Oklahoma Memorial Union is the home of many eateries, including Crossroads Restaurant, the only 24/7, full-menu eatery on campus. Crossroads serves sandwiches, salads, hamburgers, sushi, donuts and a variety of other food.

Here’s a few places — all within walking distance from the dorms — that are sure to help you achieve those precious “freshman 15” pounds.

Editor's note: To see Lauren Abrams' selections, pick up a copy of The Oklahoma Daily's Back to School Edition.