Understanding The Way To Survive and Improve for Universities Students into a Healthy Lifestyle in South of Jakarta Dormitories

Abstract

This study explores the challenges faced by university students living in dormitories in South Jakarta in maintaining a healthy lifestyle while managing academic responsibilities. Limited access to nutritious food, reliance on affordable yet unhealthy options, and low cooking proficiency contribute to poor dietary habits among students. Many students frequently depend on online food delivery services due to convenience, promotional pricing, and time constraints, often resulting in irregular eating patterns and reduced nutritional quality. Using a qualitative research approach, this study gathers data through literature review, observations, and interviews with dormitory students to understand their eating behaviors, motivations, and lifestyle constraints. Findings indicate that most students rarely cook, possess only basic or insufficient cooking skills, and often skip meals such as breakfast or dinner. Despite awareness of healthy eating principles, practical barriers limit their application in daily life. To address this issue, the study proposes the use of digital media specifically an educational cooking video game as an engaging tool to improve students’ cooking skills and promote healthier eating habits. By integrating elements of gameplay with nutritional knowledge and simple, budget-friendly recipes, the proposed design aims to encourage behavioral change in a fun and accessible way, ultimately supporting students in achieving a balanced and sustainable lifestyle.