 "Photo: Courtesy Photo")
Scott Sicko didn't have the typical weight issues some incoming freshmen have during their first year at college.
As a tight end for the University of New Hampshire's football team, Sicko needed to add pounds, rather than try to lose them.
"I've had to gain weight every year since I've been here," said Sicko, a senior this year. "I needed to gain the 'Freshman 15.'"
For those not exercising five hours a day, weight gain can be a battling reality.
From unlimited meal plans to late night snacking to alcohol consumption, gaining weight the first year of college is common.
"I've administered a dozen college physicals in the last week," said Dr. Lawrence Schissel, who has been giving physicals to first-year students for the past 20 years. "The 'Freshman 15' is a real entity."
To avoid weight gain, Dr. Schissel recommends exercising, not dieting.
"It's a bigger roadblock to get someone to exercise," said Dr. Schissel, "But it's good not just for weight control. It helps you concentrate and sleep better."
The Whittemore Center, which houses the gym facilities for the university, sees hundreds of students each day.
Eileen Johnson, a senior, has been working for two years at the Whitt, but she can remember when it was her first time working out there.
"We were all freshmen at one point," said Johnson, facility supervisor . "Try to go with friends so you have a few people there with you."
The gym facility, which is included in tuition costs, has racquetball and basketball courts, weight lifting equipment and an indoor track.
"Going to the gym will help minimize weight gain," said Johnson, a sociology and justice studies major, "and it's easy to gain weight your freshman year."
And if the gym is still too threatening, Dr. Schissel advises an even more modest form of physical activity.
"Walk to class," said Dr. Schissel. "Avoid taking the bus and walk or ride a bike to class. Simple things carried out day-to-day will lead to moderate weight loss."
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