Being away at college without a solid way of transportation can seem unbearable, but there must be a way to do it. I have lived my entire college career without a car, and at this point I only break down every other time I have to get somewhere. Only people who don't have their cars with them really understand the struggle, but I've learned a few tricks that can help aid in your struggle a little bit more. This guide in no way can replace the convenience of having a car, but it might help you avoid that mental break down the next time you need to go grocery shopping.
LEARN HOW TO USE THE BUS SYSTEM, IT’S YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND
The first thing you need to do is download RIDER. This app connects to the GPS system on your phone and shows you to the bus stops around you. It also tells you what busses pass by your stop, and how far they are from you. This is most useful when getting to and from campus. Remember that the full FSU bus system only works from 7am-8pm, so plan out your time wisely, and try not to miss the bus.
PLAN SHOPPING TRIPS WITH YOUR ROOMMATES
With a car, you can go grocery shopping or pick up some food whenever you please, but without a car that luxury does not exist. In order to stop yourself from eating rice and ramen for a week straight, make a shopping schedule with your friends or roommates. Plan to go to the grocery store once a week, and let them know in advance if you need a ride somewhere. Don’t be afraid to ask for rides! Your friends are still going to love you...even if you annoy them.
RENT A ZIPCAR
Zipcar is a car rental service that allows you to rent a car by the hour or by the day. As a student, the application fee is waived and the annual fee is cut in half! The first time you apply online you’re charged a $15 annual fee. Within the week Zipcar will mail you your swipe card. This card is how you unlock and start the car. After that it costs $10 an hour or around $60 a day. If your campus has Zipcar, like FSU’s, there are parking spots around campus that are reserved for Zipcars. This is where you pick up and drop off the cars. This is especially beneficial for those busy days full of random errands to run, and ends up being much cheaper than calling multiple Ubers.
BUY A BIKE (IF YOU LIVE CLOSE ENOUGH TO CAMPUS)
If you live around campus a bike might be the right move for you. Bikes can actually cut walk times in half, and help you avoid the early fall heat. You can find used bike on your school’s Facebook pages, Craig’s list, or ask around to see if a friend of a friend is selling theirs.
A CAR EQUALS FREEDOM, SO START SAVING NOW
Instead of buying that Starbucks latte every day, start putting aside those $5. Save small! There’s no need for you to bring your life more discomfort by making yourself broke. Put aside what you can, save some money from your summer job, and within the next year you'll have a moderately functioning used car.
