As a commuter student at Pace University, most of your classmates are likely dorming and come from out of state. While commuters may not get to have the “classic” college experience, we definitely have advantages by being so close to home. Yes, train delays might make us late for class, and it sucks to have to go home when all the fun is happening at night. However, that doesn’t mean that we are alone! Here are some thoughts that you may have during orientation:
1. Is everyone a resident student? Where are my fellow commuters at?
Trust me, when you first start meeting other students, it’ll seem like everyone is a resident student. This might make you nervous at first, but as the day goes on, you’ll definitely meet other commuter students, whether they are NYC natives or coming from New Jersey. There’s even a breakout session where they split residents and commuters, so you might even find someone who takes the same train as you!
2. Where is the nearest Starbucks?
When you’re a commuter, you need all the energy you can get. That includes drinking copious amounts of coffee and hoping that you don’t fall asleep on the train or in class. Luckily, there is a Starbucks on campus for all your latte and frappuccino needs. You can even use your meal plan money!
3. Am I missing out on anything?
Many commuters worry that they may not make friends as easily or be as involved in campus activities. Although it may be harder since you’re not on campus all the time, it doesn’t mean you can’t be an active, involved student! There are many ways to feel like you’re a part of the community, whether you participate in school events (such as Fall Fest) or join different clubs that you’re interested in (meetings are usually held during Common Hour).
4. How am I going to balance having a job and being a commuter student?
Even though commuting does take away quite a bit of time from our schedules, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice what is important to you. Managing your time, working around your schedule, and using a planner will make it easier to maintain your priorities. Also, don’t forget to communicate! If you ever feel overwhelmed or think that you might not complete a task by the deadline, don’t hesitate to talk to your manager/professor/etc. We are all human!
5. Where are the nearest subway stations?
The stations that are closest to Pace are the City Hall and Brooklyn Bridge stations. Other close stations include Fulton Street. Chambers Street, and Cortlandt Street.
6. Where's the food?
There are many great dining options both inside and outside the campus. Inside campus, there is the Cafe 101, Starbucks, and Wall Mall. There are many great options, including vegetarian and vegan dishes! Off-campus, there are several nearby restaurants that let you use your Flex Dollars. Some popular dining locations include Au Bon Pain, Bareburger, Chipotle, Denny’s, and Red Mango!
Other than Pace dining and restaurants, there is always the go-to: Halal food carts! I know I’ll definitely be eating a lot of lamb over rice in between classes this year.
7. Can I stay in a friend’s dorm on the nights I don’t feel like commuting home?
YES! If you ever need to stay in a friend’s dorm, all you need to do is show the community desk your Pace ID and have your friend sign you in. You can be a guest resident for up three consecutive days at a time and up to 10 times a month! Make sure that your friend/host is always with you while you are staying over, and that you always have your guest pass with you during your stay (losing that little sticker costs your friend from having visitors for a while and/or a $25 fee- so don't lose it!).
While being a commuter student comes with struggles, there are many ways to manage your time and make the best of it. And remember, if you live at home, appreciate it! There’s nothing better than the comfort of your bed and a home cooked meal.
