It may seem as if it's rare to find others like you in college. Yes, I'm talking to you, commuters.
Just because we don't live on campus, doesn't mean we're missing out on the full "college experience".
There will always be that select few of students who only come to campus to attend classes and that's it. However, those that come with the intentions to get involved and actually get their money's worth (thousands of it), this one's for you! This is how to survive commuting and blending in with the crowd.
1. Get involved.
I know you've heard this numerous times dating back to high school, but this seriously is the key to living the best life on campus. I'm sure there's a plethora of clubs, communities, and organizations that pertain to your interests, hobbies, values, and even your major.
Despite that jobs are looking for experience within your field and any extracurricular and school activities you may participate in, getting involved is a fantastic way to get out and meet new people. It forces you to come to the school with reasons other than getting that piece of paper.
2. Bring snacks, coffee, and water.
When I say snacks, I mean lots of snacks. There are the typical breakfast bars you need when you're on the go in the morning, the afternoon snacks because you can't afford to buy food on campus all the time, the just-in-case goodies that are crammed into the front pocket of your book bag, and the "I need to eat something now or I might lose control of my life" snacks.
College is stressful, so it's always good to be surrounded by good food. It's also important to stay hydrated and to balance out the dehydration caused by coffee. It's okay. The first step is admitting you have a problem.
3. Stop being antisocial.
Instead of being like everyone else avoiding eye contact and verbal interactions, try sitting down next to someone and making friends with them. It may be awkward at first, but you never know when you can meet your next life-long friend.
4. Remember, every semester is a fresh slate.
Every semester that begins, you have the opportunity to recreate yourself. If you weren't happy about something last semester, try again and do better this time around. Don't be too hard on yourself.
If you want to get more involved in the spring, push yourself until you meet your expectations. Don't be shy! If you stay true to yourself, people will gravitate towards you. People will naturally like you for being you.
Just because you aren't on campus all the time, doesn't mean you won't find your place. There are others like you too who are trying to fit into the college life while being an outsider.
5. After you find your people, spend time with them!
Go check out the new Chickie's and Pete's for lunch! Spend the night over your friend's dorm and go explore the night! Go hit the new recreation center! Everything will fall into place.
6. Leave a pillow and blanket in your car.
Since you are basically living in your car, you might as well make yourself at home. You never know when you're going to need a power nap in your car before your next class. Trust me, it helps.
7. Leave emergency items in your car just in case.
You might have to stay overnight unexpectedly but, thankfully, you came prepared! It's nice to have a spare phone charger laying around when your phone is on 2%, especially when you need to tell your mom you'll be coming home later than expected.
Also, leaving "back-up make-up" in the car helps a lot. Imagine sleeping your eyebrows off and having to face the day like that... with one eyebrow! Fret no longer! Might as well throw in a toothbrush and a pair of sweatpants. You'll thank yourself later.
8. Let music sessions be therapeutic.
Sometimes the commute can be annoying, but guess what? You have some time to blast music in your car without someone telling you to keep it down. This is the moment when you can let your worries go and get high off of music!
9. Use your air vents as hair dryers.
Let me give you a situation. You're running late to class and your hair is soaking wet. You don't have time to blow-dry your hair so, instead, you save electricity by using the air in your car to do all the work for you. Bring along a comb or a brush of course.
This is how it's done.