As some of you have may have read in my previous entries, I’ve been learning a lot in these past weeks of school, and I continue to learn day after day. Today, I would like to share with you some of the things I’ve learned about being a commuter. At times it can be very challenging—having to drive to and from school, not always being prepared, and feeling a little out of place—but with time, and after many attempts, I’ve found success. And so, for my fellow commuter friends out there, here are some tips that I hope you find helpful.
ALWAYS bring extra food
Don’t even question this. If you’re going to be at school all day, you don’t want to spend any additional money on what is probably gross cafeteria food. Instead, bring extra snacks!
Store books and other materials in your car
No need to carry everything around with you all of the time. Just leave text books, notebooks, and other materials that you aren’t using in your car for you next class or study time.
Bring additional clothes
A rain jacket, a sweatshirt, work out clothes… You never know when it’s going to rain, when you decided to lounge around in some comfy clothes, or go for a run.
Don’t forget chargers
Low batteries are inevitable, so make sure to always bring your chargers.
Plan ahead
Be organized, and plan ahead of time. A good place to start is to ask yourself the following questions: How long does it take me to get to school? Did I factor in traffic/parking/walking to my class? When do my classes get out? What classes do I have today? Do I want to eat out or bring my own food?
Bring things to keep you busy
There will be a point that you're not in class, and between classes you are going to need something to keep yourself busy. Here are examples of things you might bring to keep yourself occupied: homework, notes, study materials, books, computer, magazines, phone etc.
Buy a parking permit
Even though they can cost a small fortune, it beats having to park off campus and risk not being able to find a spot. But they can get crowded, so plan parking time into your daily schedule.
Don’t go back and forth
Its just easier this way, and it saves a lot gas and money if you just stay put. Thats why you bring something to keep yourself busy.
GET INVOLVED
Just because you don’t leave on campus, doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of the free food, activities, and social events to meet new people. So get involved!
Find commuter friends
Like I mentioned previously, living off campus has its set of challenges, and often you can feel alone. So the best thing is to find friends who are in the same situation, that way you can struggle together!
Commuting to school may be different then living on campus, but it can actually be a great experience. Hopefully, with these tips, you too can have a great experience.
