Before becoming a commuter student, I had always been one for carrying a purse with all of the essentials..the makeup, the wallet, the vital earbuds and if you remember maybe a snack, (just IN CASE you get hungry).
When I became a commuter student I discovered that this whole carry a mini bag with you in case you need something thing was going to need to intensify, to say the least. More often than not I find myself with multiple bags of all of the necessities in the marathon day that is a school day, and I have learned other things along the way. Here are nine tips for commuting students!
1. Be sure to have a dependable, sturdy bag, (or two), for all of your things!
While the small backpacks and purses are cute they will NOT hold all that you need, but instead decide to rip on you leaving you with overfilled hands and the lost ability to function effectively.
2. Always have a phone charger/portable charger!
Way too often I have found myself waiting for trains with a dead phone and no means of communication if I needed it. Having a portable charger is always beneficial, and always try to be charged to a good amount before leaving home, school or the dorms!
3. Always have extra and emergency money on you!
There may be times where you find yourself a little short for lunch, or for your plans for the day and there may come times where you don't wish you had money but times were you actually need money, whether it is for a taxi ride home you didn't plan for, emergency Advil, (I have been there),or food when you get stuck at school for the night. Make it a point to always have money on you, or a card at least.
4. Always have a snack!
(Notice how many times food has been mentioned already?) When you are out of the house hours on end, and the dining halls close, and/or you don't want to keep spending more and more on food a snack in your bag may very well seem like the greatest thing in the world.
5. Keep health essentials with you!
A little travel size toothbrush/toothpaste and deodorant would never hurt anyone, and they come in handy when you decide to spend the night, or just find yourself in need! Also ladies always have a pad/tampon! (You never know) Tylenol or Advil is also another useful essential to have in your possession when on the go.
6. HEADPHONES/EARBUDS!
I cannot express the necessity of earbuds enough. Always be sure to have a set with you for when you want to listen to music or watch Netflix while you wait for your train/ride or for when you need to escape those people that simply don't stop talking. (I have found myself in that last situation way too many times)
7. If you are able to, have an extra set of clothes either in your forever expanding Mary Poppins bag or in a friend's dorm!
Sometimes bad weather can strike out of nowhere, or you may find yourself staying the night without warning.
8. Speaking of clothes...bundle up in cold/rainy weather!
Waiting for the train in just a coat and no hat or gloves is never fun, and neither is freezing during class. Watch the weather and wear layers if necessary! Another tip is to have backup hoodie just in case you decide you decide it's too cold to function or decide to take a nap between classes (Hoodies can make great pillows or blankets)
9. Find some fellow commuters!
Even though it may seem that everyone dorms, it's actually not the case and there are many people who commute just as you do. Finding fellow commuters can help you make more friends and more included within your school! When I first started school I didn't know too many people who commuted, but once I did I met some great people and found that while I don't have a dorm common room, the commuter lounge makes a great spot for mini friend gatherings :)
