Hey there, fellow Fordham students! As a Lincoln Center junior who has class at Rose Hill three days a week, and has been part of a Rose Hill club since freshman year, I am extremely well acquainted with the Fordham Ram Van.

Ah yes, the Ram Van. We love to hate it. The potholes, the questionable radio preferences, and the nausea-inducing stop-and-go of New York traffic.

I don't blame you if you aren't the biggest fan of the van. Believe me, neither am I. However, I'm all about focusing on the positives this year. Listen up, because I'm about to tell you exactly why the Ram Van is a blessing in disguise.

Obviously, it's cheap and safe transportation between classes. Okay, sure, but that's a given. The real hidden gems of the commute are found in some of the things you probably hate most about it.

Feel cramped on a full van? Stuck in the back row with three strangers and no headphones? Congrats, you've just met three new friends.

Trapped in rush hour traffic? You finally have time to listen to that new podcast you've had saved. Or to catch up on the sleep you've been missing.

The possibilities available to you on the Ram Van are endless. You can read for class, make your grocery list, get your half of that group project finally done.

You might be thinking, "Okay, but I could do those things in my dorm or apartment." While that's a valid point, the question is not could you, but would you.

You see, at home, there are endless distractions. Whether it's your roommates or the TV or the snacks you just bought, you can always find an excuse to put off your tasks for just a little bit longer.

On the Ram Van, there is NO ESCAPE. Especially if your phone happens to die when you're out. There is nothing between you and your responsibilities except a busload of strangers or an hour-long nap. You have three choices: talk to somebody, sleep, or get shit done. Honestly, none of those are bad options.

While you may not appreciate the commute itself, maybe now you understand the blessing that the Ram Van truly is. It is a perfect storm of discomfort, boredom, and desperation that pushes you to do things you normally don't prioritize. So next time you're feeling stuck with your to-do list, hop on the van. It just might be your saving grace.