Long gone are those days where you had to roll out of bed and find a way to class. Most likely this was on foot, but those days are behind you. You either finally convinced your parents to make the investment, saved up all your summer cash or finally brought your car from home. You're now the person everyone wants to know on campus because you have the freedom to go wherever you want, when you want to.
Fast Food
Having a car allows you quick and easy access to food outside of campus. Instead of having to source all your meals downtown, you can now get Culvers, Taco Bell, McDonald’s, Dairy Queen, Burger King, KFC, Little Caesars, and the Pancheros that isn’t always busy like the one on campus. This aspect of having a car can be a little unhealthy because you are you not walking to the restaurant and eating unhealthy, greasy, fast food.
No More Walks in Bad Weather
If I see that it is raining or cold, I will gladly pay the $1.50 for parking rather than brave my way through the elements to class. This has also made me go to class more, as I am not deterred from going to class due to bad weather.
Movies
Before I had a car at school, I only saw movies in theaters when I was back at home. But now, I can go see a movie in theaters whenever I please. This means I don’t need to wait for a new movie to come out on DVD before I can watch it. The movies here in Iowa City are actually a great value if you go on Tuesday or Thursday because admission and unlimited popcorn only costs $5.
More Friends
This is more of a drawback of having a car at school, but everyone wants to be your friend when they find out you have a car. Cars being a fairly rare entity at school means that everyone is always looking for a friend with one. People are always asking for rides or asking to tag along when you do decide to drive.
Groceries and Haircuts
No longer are you confined to campus to get overpriced groceries and haircuts. Having a car allows you to go to a real grocery store whenever you like. This also prevents your fridge from being empty for too long. Haircuts in Iowa City are expensive they are not all that great. So instead of waiting until you go home to get a haircut, you can drive and get one right when you need it.
A Happy Girlfriend
No longer do you have to walk your girlfriend home late at night, but can easily drop her off. This will make her happy because who wants to walk home in the cold, dark night, and will also make you happier because you won't be charged with walking her. Dates and meeting up has become easy and even a little convenient.
Knowing Songs on the Radio
I never really listen to the radio unless I am in a car. Before I had a car at school, I only ever heard the radio when my parents came to visit or on breaks. But now, I can listen to the radio whenever I drive. So now when I go home I am able to sing along much to the dismay of my parents.
Getting Home
Going home during the breaks or for a weekend is much more practical. My parents don’t need to come out to get me, which makes for a long day of driving. You also don’t need to catch a ride from someone else which can be costly if they make you pay for gas. You can leave at a time that works best for you instead of trying to fit around someone else’s schedule as well.
