Ramen, Rice, Mac & Cheese, Pizza, Pasta, Peanut Butter & Jelly, Crackers, etc.
Basically anything that could be microwaved or was relatively easy to make.
Even though there have been positive changes to the student dining experience when compared to back then, I’m sure there are still some students (as of today) who are “frugal” towards their college diets, yet still try to eat relatively healthy, while still saving money on food. (This may connect more to students who live off campus who may not need to purchase a meal plan, even though it’s still an option for them to consider)
Furthermore, despite having access to the dining halls, I still kept snacks and water in my dorm, since it helped me from using all my dining hall money amounts for each semester.