Mondays have a bad reputation, and for good reason. In a nutshell, it is the longest day, often the busiest, and the entire week is ahead of you. On your calendar for this week: a dreaded chemistry test, impossible Spanish quiz and a ridiculously long comparative literature essay.

While I do know that Mondays will never be my favorite day, I have found hope in improving this drab and often depressing part of my week. What is the light at the end of the never-ending Monday-tunnel? Joining the Meatless Monday movement.

Yes, going meatless on Mondays is the answer to starting your week off right. I have realized that taking part in Meatless Mondays has expanded my culinary palate to delicious, healthy vegetarian dinners- satisfying not only my appetite, but rendering my Monday woes a thing of the past as I bite into a scrumptious black bean burger. Whether devouring a Crunchy Spicy Hummus Wrap or biting into a warm Brie and Butternut Squash Quesadillas, the long, impossible week ahead can be placed on the backburner- at least through dinner. You may be wondering, aside from deliciousness, why should I go meatless? Here are just a couple great reasons, in case you need a nudge.

Time. Opting for a vegetarian dinner is a particularly great option for the busy, hurried student as a meatless meal is not only healthier, but faster to prepare as there is no need to prep and cook meat. For a super quick meal that will allow you to quickly return to studying chemistry, try a Coconut Kale Brown Rice Bowl.

Money. A meatless meal is also easy on your wallet- another reason why every college student should take part in this campaign. Visit your local farmer’s market for a good deal on fresh veggies and create the Roasted Asparagus and Sweet Potato Salad or Chipotle Barley Salad with Corn, Zucchini and Radishes.

The Earth. Just for a moment, take a look past your own looming week (daunting as it may seem). A meatless meal allows you to reduce your carbon footprint, so it improves not only your health and wellbeing, but that of the planet as well. Win win!

The many perks of going meatless may just result in Meatless Tuesdays and Wednesdays… not quite as catchy a name, but equally appealing and delicious.

Caroline Ariail is a senior at the University of Georgia where she studies journalism. Caroline is passionate about health and fitness as she is an avid runner who drinks wheatgrass every morning.