Can I cook in the dormitory?

Can I cook in the dormitory?

At 3D ACADEMY, we know that food is an important part of your daily comfort and well-being—especially when living far from home. While our dormitories are designed primarily for accommodation and study, we also provide limited cooking facilities so that students can prepare simple meals or snacks when needed.

However, for safety and cleanliness reasons, cooking is not allowed inside individual dormitory rooms. Instead, we offer a shared kitchen space within the school’s cafeteria where basic cooking is permitted.

This FAQ explains what’s allowed, where you can cook, what equipment is available, and how to use the kitchen respectfully.

Can I cook in my dormitory room?

No, cooking is not allowed inside dormitory rooms, whether you’re staying in the on-campus dormitory or in a hotel-style off-campus dormitory.

This rule applies to:

• Gas burners and electric stoves

• Induction cookers

• Hot plates or hot pots

• Rice cookers, toasters, microwaves (inside rooms)

• Any open flame or heating appliance

Why is cooking in rooms prohibited?

• Fire Safety: Cooking in enclosed spaces poses a serious fire hazard, especially in shared buildings.

• Odor Control: Strong food smells can linger and disturb other residents in shared rooms or hallways.

• Cleanliness: Spills and food waste can attract pests and create hygiene issues.

• Ventilation: Dorm rooms are not equipped with proper exhaust or smoke control systems.

To ensure everyone’s safety and comfort, we ask that all cooking be done in the designated shared kitchen provided for students.

️ Where can I cook?

Students can use the shared kitchen in the school cafeteria, located on the ground floor of the main building. This space is designed specifically for light cooking and food preparation.

Kitchen Location:

• Inside the cafeteria, near the dining area

• Clearly marked as “Student Kitchen” or “Cooking Area”

⏰ Available Hours:

• 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight), daily

• The kitchen is closed between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM for cleaning and security

We kindly ask all students to finish cooking and clean up by midnight so our staff can sanitize the area and prepare for the next day.

What kind of cooking is allowed?

The kitchen is designed for simple, quick meal preparation, such as:

• Making instant noodles or ramen

• Heating up prepared meals or leftovers

• Cooking eggs or vegetables

• Preparing sandwiches, salads, or simple rice dishes

• Using a microwave or electric kettle

• Light frying or boiling

Please do not attempt complex recipes or time-consuming meals that require extended cooking time, high heat, or produce heavy smoke. The kitchen is shared, and it’s important to be considerate of other students.

What equipment is available?

The cafeteria kitchen includes:

• Electric stove or induction cooktops

• Microwave ovens

• Electric kettles

• Sink with running water

• Basic cooking utensils (frying pans, pots, spatulas, ladles, etc.)

• Cutting boards and knives

• Plates, bowls, and cups (limited supply)

• Refrigerator for temporary food storage (label your items!)

If you have personal tools you prefer to use, you may bring them—but you are responsible for cleaning and storing them properly.

Kitchen Rules & Etiquette

To keep the kitchen safe and pleasant for everyone, please follow these simple rules:

1. Clean up immediately after cooking
   Wash dishes, wipe down counters, and remove food scraps from the sink.

2. Do not leave personal ingredients or cookware behind
   The school is not responsible for lost or discarded items.

3. Label any food stored in the refrigerator
   Include your name and date. Unlabeled or expired items may be discarded.

4. Be considerate of others
   Don’t occupy the stove for long periods during busy times.

5. Dispose of trash properly
   Sort recyclables, organics, and burnables into the correct bins.

6. No cooking after midnight
   The kitchen must be quiet and empty between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM.

What if I don’t want to cook?

No problem! Many students choose not to cook at all during their stay.

We offer three freshly prepared meals a day in the school cafeteria—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Our menus include:

• Filipino and Asian cuisine

• Occasional Western-style dishes

• Vegetarian and low-oil options

• Fruit, salads, and soup (depending on the day)

If you feel homesick or want something different, there are also convenience stores, cafés, and restaurants within walking distance of the campus.

Cultural Notes

We understand that some students may come from countries where cooking every day is a part of life. While we respect that cultural habit, we kindly ask that students adjust to the shared kitchen model during their stay here.

Cooking in dorm rooms is not only against school policy—it also risks your safety and that of others. Please help us maintain a safe and respectful learning environment for everyone.

‍♂️ What happens if I cook in my room?

Cooking inside your dormitory room is a rule violation and may result in disciplinary action.

Depending on the situation, the following actions may be taken:

• First offense: Verbal or written warning

• Second offense: Cleaning fee or restriction on facility use

• Repeated offenses: Possible dorm reassignment or dismissal

In addition, if cooking equipment like hot plates or rice cookers are found inside your room, they may be confiscated by staff for safety reasons.

We encourage all students to enjoy the freedom of living abroad—but within the boundaries of safety and respect for others.

Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I boil water in my dorm room?
A: No. Please use the electric kettle in the cafeteria kitchen.

Q: Can I use a rice cooker or hot plate in my room?
A: No. These appliances are not permitted in dormitory rooms.

Q: Can I store my groceries in the kitchen?
A: Yes, but you must label them clearly. Unlabeled items may be thrown away.

Q: What if I have a food allergy or need to prepare special meals?
A: Please speak with staff. We will try to assist or offer guidance on using the kitchen safely.

Final Thoughts

At 3D ACADEMY, we strive to provide a clean, safe, and comfortable living environment for all students. Our cafeteria kitchen is a shared space where you can prepare light meals, snacks, or cultural dishes to share with friends—but always within the boundaries of school policy.

By respecting the rules around cooking, you’re helping to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and everyone in our international community.