Could you go 40 days without your biggest vice? For students who participate in Lent, this is an annual test.

Christians observe Lent for the 40 days before Easter to reflect on Jesus Christ’s life and death.

“Lent is an opportunity to give up something that is an unhealthy habit,” mechanical engineering senior James Bieniek said. “It’s kind of like a New Year’s resolution.”

The 40 days can be approached as a challenge.

“This year I’m giving up shopping. I always try to give up something difficult,” sports management senior Amanda Rodriguez said. “I’m a little worried about shopping though. I usually succeed, but this year is going to be tough.”

Some Christians take it further and fast during the day, for example. With today’s modern conveniences, however, the options abound.

“One year I gave up elevators, forcing me to take eight flights of stairs up to my apartment,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve known people who gave up Chipotle for Lent. Facebook is another popular one.”

Other unconventional and modern Lenten sacrifices include Twitter, Instagram, Netflix, fast food, Starbucks and Diet Coke. College students have even more options, especially with somewhat nocturnal lifestyles.

“This year, I’m giving up snacking and late-night eating, because I hate when I wake up to an empty wallet knowing I spent all my money on food,” Bieniek said.

Because most people who observe Lent view it as an opportunity to better themselves, they may continue their sacrifice even after Easter.

“There are people who go right back to the habit, like Lent never happened,” Bieniek said. “But in general, you get used to living without sweets, for example, and then in July, you’ll have a doughnut and be right back where you started.”

But you can form a new habit and subconsciously keep going with a Lenten promise.

 “It’s almost like you give it up for 40 days, overindulge the first day back and then go right back to giving it up again,” Rodriguez said. “After giving up elevators, I found that I was naturally inclined to take the stairs. It was a change for the better.”