Dear Commuting College Student,

Ah, yes, while some of your friends have to walk down the block to go to class, you have a hefty 45-minute commute -- and that's OK because you know you have a better sense of direction or better driving skills at the end of the day.

Commuter students are some of the most hard working people I've ever met. Going to college is challenging enough as it is, but most people I've come in contact with are also juggling an almost 40-hour work week, and an internship or sports team, too. It's insane. But that doesn't stop you from pulling all-nighters and making it on the Dean's List every semester.

When you get the question, Where did you end up going to school? from a family friend and you answer (fill in college name here) and they say, "Oh, you should've gone away," (real answer I've received) you can come back with, "Hey, at least I'll be able to afford a home when I'm 25!" Then walk away smiling, because you don't have a reason not to.

Usually, at commuter schools, you have the luxury of having small classes (something that's not for everyone, but I digress) with small classes comes amazing networking opportunities. You honestly never know who you're going to end up working with, or for -- and it's really nice to get to know everyone in your classes.

Realize that the friends you make at school are probably going to be lifelong friends. You all live in the same area give or take, so there's no over-dramatic goodbyes to someone who lives across the country.

Know that all your late night drives home, and early morning coffee runs before your 7:30 a.m. class will all pay off in the end. The countless hours in the library and study lounges in between class (to avoid another round trip home) will be worthwhile at the end of the road.

From,
Another commuter.