The life of a commuter student comes with both advantages and disadvantages. College students run on their own schedules, which means plenty of late nights and last-minute events. This puts a strain on commuters who can’t always keep up with the spontaneity.
Commuting student Marley Martin, freshman English major, shared her struggles as a commuter.
“It was really hard to find community as a commuter, since most people in classes aren’t really there to socialize, and a lot of the campus events take place later at night,” Martin said.
Commuters rely heavily on planning and live a lifestyle that emphasizes time management. Unlike CBU residents who may take a two-minute walk back to their dorms, commuters calculate drive time before settling back into their homes.
Annabelle Bruzas, freshman psychology major and Christian studies minor, has a few commuter friends and shared her view of commuter life from firsthand experience.
“Often, on-campus students hang out later in the evening after classes, games, and events, but this is the time many commuters need to drive home,” Bruzas said. “Spontaneous things are often difficult with knowing when to come or leave school.”
The typical college student’s spontaneity proves difficult to keep up with as a resident—let alone as a commuter. Although there are many downsides, commuters also enjoy some advantages.
Most live in houses relatively close to campus and usually have access to a car. This proves to be helpful, especially since many students on campus do not have a vehicle. Their nearby homes also act as a second home to students far away from their own families.
“My commuter friends have been so kind to invite us over for home-cooked meals or offered the option to do laundry or showers,” Bruzas said.
Thankfully, Community Life saw the need and took steps to meet it. Emilee Thomas, assistant director of campus activities, shared the department’s heart toward commuters.
“We realize that commuters have unique needs—which is why we host events specifically for them,” Thomas said. “At the same time, we want commuters to feel invited and welcome to all Community Life events.”
One specific event, Commuter Cafe, takes place frequently to serve this group. Although Community Life hosts events just for commuters, Thomas emphasized that all events remain open to them to strengthen their sense of community.
Commuters’ unique circumstances allow them to be intentional with each interaction, take part in their chosen community, and be mindful of which events to attend and when. Taking advantage of the spaces and lounges provided to them contributes to building a strong community for commuters.
