When I was applying for colleges, I always dreamed of living in a dorm room and embracing the "College Experience." Sadly that wasn't the case for me. I've been commuting to my school my throughout my entire college career so far. It's not that bad to commute to school, considering that I live less than 5 minutes from campus.
Being in college is a difficult enough adjustment without adding in the commuter life on top of it. Instead of worrying about roommates and when you can sneak a nap in between classes, you have to plan out not only your routes but your entire day, every day, in order to maximize your time and make the most of your college career worth while. Here are a few tips and tricks that I've picked up as a commuter student.
1. Plan ahead
We all know that picking an outfit can take forever. If you lay out your clothes the night before, then you won't have to rush in the morning. Have a backup outfit planned in case of weather or a special occasion. Be sure to also keep your books and school gear in the same place every time and organize everything the night before to prevent the last-minute panic. Leave your keys by the door as well to make things easier.
2. Wake up on time
Monitor you sleep schedule carefully and constantly. If you're a deep sleeper like myself it can take a lot to wake up. Try setting multiple alarms or even buying an alarm that will force you to get out of bed. Sometimes even an annoying sound can awaken some lazy sleepers.
3. Leave your house early in order to get a good parking spot
Not all parking lots are the same. In fact, some are even smaller than others. Most parking spots, especially those that are closer to buildings, are on a first come, first serve basis. The later you get to campus, the higher the chance of having a terrible spot and walking further to class. Also, do not park in the faculty lot or spaces for residents just so you can get to class faster, because you're risking a ticket and possibly a boot on your car. Make sure you check the weather before you leave and be prepared for any weather changes and plan alternate routes if needed.
4. Become friends with people who live on campus and attend campus events
There are several events during the school year, especially during the fall. Don't isolate yourself because you're a commuter. I have several friends who live on campus and I spend time with them constantly. Events are the perfect opportunity to make new friends, find some common characteristics, and have a laugh every once in a while. There are some events that run really late, but maybe your friend can let you stay over in their dorm for the night (overnight policies vary by school).
5. Bring extra food
There can be times where you cannot afford to buy food in the commuter cafe or enter the cafeteria and eat with your friends. Or maybe you're running late to class and are unable to sit down and eat. Most professors will let you eat in class, unless you're like me who studies science because you cannot eat in lab. Bring plenty of snacks so you don't become hangry by the end of the day.
6. Schedule classes to the best of your ability
It may not be what you want to do, but it can make your life a lot easier. If you have large breaks between classes, you either stay on campus all day or go home and drive back. If your classes are back-to-back, that means you can go to class and finish school for the day and go home earlier. If you are unable to make the perfect schedule, try taking advantage of those breaks by taking a nap in the lounge, going out to lunch with friends, study/do homework, and going to events or games. Enjoy the college life while getting your education.
7. Get involved on campus
Just because you're a commuter student does not mean you're excluded from participating in school clubs and groups. Getting involved on campus shapes you as a person. Try joining Greek Life or becoming an executive board member of a club of student government. Volunteer and donate your time to help others out. Getting involved helps you make friends of the same interests. Who knows, maybe you'll enjoy being on campus all day long after all.
8. Have extra money on hand
You never know if you need to spend more on gas, food, or books. You need gas to travel from school to home and it may cost a lot per week (depending on how far you're driving from). You may need to buy food on campus or rent another required textbook for class. What if there's an emergency and you need to make a purchase immediately? Having some money with you can make life easier. Always be prepared for what is needed or thrown your way.
9. Take a deep breath and have fun
Commuting isn't nearly as stressful as you think it will be. Everything will work out just fine in the end. College is about getting an education while having fun along the way. Enjoy yourself and do not let a simple label of being a commuter student get to you. Because, in the end, we all have the same goal in mind: studying hard and getting our degrees. You can still embrace the college life without living in a dorm. If you manage your time well and plan everything, then you will be able to survive college as a commuter student.
