Many students are heading back to school now and moving into their dorm rooms, apartments, and campus. But, you still have a few free days because you are commuting to college. Don’t fret. Commuting to college is not as big of a deal as you may think.
Coming from someone who did it for all four years, it is perfectly fine and sometimes enjoyable. You don’t have to live on campus to experience everything college has to offer and don’t let other people, whether it is other students, your parents, or friends, feel bad about it.
Here are the top 5 reasons why it’s ok to commute to college.
You will save a ton of money
College is expensive enough without having to add on the extra money for room and board, food, and everything else that comes with living alone. Sure, You need to spend money on gas if you drive to campus or spend money on train tickets/ passes, but that is nowhere near as much money as living at college. You may even be able to get discounts on your train passes because you’re a student.
You don’t have to deal with roommates
Your roommates can either turn into your best friends and your saving grace in college or they can be a complete nightmare. If you are someone who prefers to be alone or doesn’t do good with confrontation, then commuting is the right choice for you. Sometimes roommates can have habits that you may not like. Although living at home with your “roommates” or family can also be a tough time.
You won’t miss out on family events/ time with your family
When you live away at college, you miss a lot of events, such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, etc. with family. Commuting can allow you to be at all of those events and spend more time, in general, with family. Grandparents and parents are very important people in your life and spending as much time with them as you can is important, especially because after college, depending on the job you get, you could move far away again and never see them.
You can meet new people just as easily
You don’t have to live on campus, attend every party and football game, etc. to meet new people. Commuters can still meet people by joining clubs, going to class, hanging out in the commuter’s lounge, and you have a unique way of meeting people that students on campus do not. Most likely, if you take the train everyday, you will see the same people. You probably sit next to different people, depending on what seats are available and you will probably strike up a conversation.
You still have everything you need at home
Dorm room beds are not as comfortable as your own bed. Food from the student center is nowhere near as good as home-cooked meals. You have access to a free washer and dryer, all of your clothes and items you need while being able to see your at-home friends and family. Some people find a safe haven in being around their own things and you won’t have to spend money on the extra things because most likely, mom will be there and still taking care of you.
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