Entering a university as a commuter student comes with its own set of benefits, from saving money to minimizing distractions, and even having family support if you are living at home. However, staying connected and developing a community on campus can take a more intentional effort.
Making friends and finding your place often requires putting yourself out there and getting as involved as possible. You may not see other students everyday, but you can still make the effort to build deep connections, get involved with all that your school has to offer, and make the most out of your time in college.
Stick Around Between Classes
It may be tempting to relax in your car or drive back and forth to campus when there are breaks in your schedule, but being physically present can be helpful for making connections. Whether you are studying in the library or taking a walk around the track, you can run into people from class and become a familiar face to the folks around you.
Have a Schedule
Fitting club meetings or campus events into your schedule to eliminate driving back and forth can make it easier to participate. Planning out your week and having snacks ready for longer days can help you feel more prepared as you try to stay involved.
Hanging out with the people who live on your campus can make it easier to find the best spots for grabbing a bite or getting outdoors. College also presents the opportunity for you to make friendships that can be lifelong. Incorporating extracurriculars into the time between courses can prepare you for life after graduation, allow you to meet others, and even work to make the world a better place.
Giving yourself extra time to get to class or hang outs will also save a lot of stress. Unexpected obstacles or excess traffic can cause you to run behind, so planning for those things can mean a smoother day getting from place to place.
Use the Resources Provided
As a commuter, it can be difficult to know where the best places are to rest between classes or eat lunch on campus. PLNU’s Commuter Lounge is an example of a place offered for those who drive to campus and is a great way to meet others while catching up on homework or relaxing. With lounge chairs, a fridge, and snacks available for purchase, this is a great place to take advantage of during long days spent on campus.
Caf Lane is one of the many spots on campus with open seats and a great view to enjoy a break in the day. The dining hall also offers meal plans for commuters and can allow you to spend time with others.
Learn on Your Commute
Getting to know people can make the social aspect of going to school more enjoyable, but making time for coursework is also important. Using the drive to listen to a podcast or the audio from a lecture you recorded can make you more prepared for class or an exam you might be heading into.
You can also pick up different skills through podcasts you listen to just for fun on certain days or take the time to relax with a calming playlist after a long week.
Staying Connected
While you do not live on campus, that doesn’t mean you are any less a part of your university. Making the effort to stick around and get to know people by participating in school events and taking advantage of the resources provided can definitely help you find your place.
Commuting to a small, private college like PLNU can make it easier to connect with people as you are less likely to just be another face in the crowd. If you want to earn your degree at a school that values every one of its students and provides them with the tools for success, consider applying today or get connected with one of our counselors.