San Diego State University students Gavin Bartow and Daniel Self are on the brink of graduation, but their recent project, Second Course, is making a big impact on campus. This app helps students access free surplus food from various events, which is crucial for those facing food insecurity.
After launching earlier this spring, Second Course quickly attracted attention. “On the first day, we had 150 users sign up, and meals were claimed within minutes,” Daniel said. The app has since grown to 680 users, showcasing a strong demand.
Students can see available meals in real-time, complete with photos, portion sizes, and pickup details. Instead of going to waste, food that would typically be composted is repackaged and handed out to students.
The idea is personal for Daniel. As a first-generation college student, he experienced food and housing struggles himself. “I lived in my car and faced hunger. This project is my way of giving back and helping others who may be in similar situations.”
In addition to tackling food insecurity, the app is designed to encourage all students to participate. “We want it to be inclusive. It’s not just for those in need,” Gavin explained. “We aimed to create a stigma-free environment.”
The meals offered vary widely, ranging from barbecued chicken to pizza. This diversity highlights the food options available on campus and underscores the app’s mission to serve all students.
With mentorship from SDSU’s ZIP Launchpad and the Lavin Entrepreneurship Center, Gavin and Daniel brought their idea to life. Winning third place in the SDSU Social Venture Challenge helped them secure $5,000 in funding, crucial for development. “The support we received from our mentor, Professor Iana Castro, was invaluable,” Gavin said.
During the pilot phase, they promoted the app by distributing flyers and directly posting food availability at campus events. Feedback from students indicated that the app was already making a significant difference in their lives.
Partnerships have also been a key factor in expanding the app’s reach. SDSU Catering now collaborates with Second Course to provide surplus catered food. “This partnership not only reduces waste but also directly supports our students,” said Isaac Duarte, associate director of SDSU Dining.
Second Course complements existing support initiatives at SDSU, such as the Basic Needs Center and the Economic Crisis Response Team, which aim to help students navigate financial hardships.
For Daniel, the experience of building Second Course has enriched his education. “I’m applying what I’ve learned to something that helps people right away.” Both founders are ambitious about the app’s future, hoping to expand it beyond SDSU and possibly to public universities across the country. “In the long run, I’d love to see it available at every public university,” Gavin added.
This initiative reflects a growing trend among college campuses to address food insecurity. According to a 2022 survey by the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, 39% of college students reported experiencing food insecurity. Projects like Second Course offer practical solutions for tackling this pressing issue.
The small innovations on college campuses can lead to significant changes, and it’s clear that students like Gavin and Daniel are leading the charge for a healthier, more equitable environment for everyone.
