Introducing Vegan Month with Anna Wildman

Posted on October 31, 2017 by Cooking for Students

Here at Cooking for Students, it is VEGAN MONTH! All throughout November, we will be featuring all things vegan, from recipes to blogs and Instagram interviews. It’s going to be an exciting and informative month about everything you can do as a student if you are interested in changing your diet. Each week, we are going to feature a series of Instagram vegan bloggers, as they’re FAB! So, our first one for the month is Anna Wildman from NYC!

1. What drew you to Veganism?

I was drawn to Veganism after watching the documentary “Vegucated.” I realized that going vegan was such an easy way to make a positive impact on the environment. I was also blown away by the mistreatment of animals in the factory farming industry, and decided that I could not participate in that anymore.

2. What are the benefits of being a Vegan?

I love that you get to flex your creative muscles since you have to figure out how to “veganize” all of your favorite foods, like pizza, lasagna, meatballs, apple pie, etc. It also has led to better digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Veganism also has a snowball effect; Once you go vegan, you start to wonder what else you can be doing to better yourself and the world: for me, this meant starting a meditation practice, reading more, using less plastic, shopping locally and seasonally, and reducing waste. I also love being a vegan because I’m now part of a passionate & compassionate community of like-minded people who want to do good for the world. It has ignited a passion & sense of purpose that I never thought I would have.

3. Has it been challenging to maintain?

It was definitely challenging at first, since it was hard for me to give up seafood and sweet treats, like baked goods (since you don’t really “see” the animal products in something like a muffin). However, now that it’s been almost 3 years it is not something I struggle with.

4. Any advice for students wanting to become Vegans?

My advice for students is to seek out as many resources as you can. I think it’s hard to be vegan as a young adult because you may feel alone/different, but the truth is that there are a LOT of young vegans out there. You just have to look for them. Engage with others on Instagram, start a blog, start a school group/club: get involved and show your passion. Others will be inspired by you and want to know more about what veganism is.

5. What is your favourite recipe and why?

I love to make sweet potato fries because it’s easy, healthy, and delicious.
I also love making chilli because you can make a big batch of it and it’ll cover at least 5 meals. It’s hearty, healthy, and filling.

Check out Anna’s Instagram account and blog for more great recipes!
@annawildman
Recipe: cookieandkate.com/2015/vegetarian-chili-recipe/
You can find the recipe here: annawildman.blog/2017/03/30/crispy-sweet-potato