Commuter Students
Students commute from various distances for a variety of reasons. Some students may live at home for financial reasons while others may move across the street from their parents just to have their own place. Whatever the reason, it does not change the fact that a commuter student’s life is much different from that of a student who lives on campus.
The total immersion required to enjoy the full college experience may be more difficult for commuters to achieve. Students learn as much about themselves during the off hours as they learn about chemistry or philosophy during regular school hours. As well as providing a more rewarding college experience, off hour experiences coupled with school hour learning help students become well-rounded individuals. Unfortunately, commuters often miss out on the off hour learning experiences simply because they are not around. For this reason, commuters have to make an extra effort to become integrated into the campus community. Though it may be difficult, it is not impossible. All it takes is a little added initiative and courage.
How You Can Help Your Commuter…
- Remember that college students operate in their own time zone. Many college students may not even be out of bed before 11 AM (just in time for their first lecture at noon).
- Allow your student greater personal freedom, such as a later curfew. Many times, it is impossible to avoid being distracted and your student may need more time to study. Therefore, don’t be alarmed if he or she is up until 2 AM or 3 AM, or perhaps even all night.
- The home environment is not always the best place to study. The perceived benefit of studying at home may be outweighed by the cost of being distracted by a myriad of potential distractions (TV, siblings, etc.). Some students will study most effectively by staying on campus.
- Be aware that with the extra academic load, it may not be practical for your student to have as many chores around the house.
- Encourage your student to get involved in the campus community. It is very easy to fall into the rut of going to class and coming straight home. Though this lifestyle may seem to be the best for academics, your student may miss out on half of what college is about.
- Encourage your student to make friends with students living on campus. Knowing residents gives commuters a place to crash during the day.
- Commuting can be extremely frustrating and tiring. Your student needs your emotional support to cope with the stress. Support your student with positive words of encouragement. A little money for gas and parking would help too!
UC San Diego also offers carpool services between campus and designated carpool locations around the county. For more information on carpooling, parking, shuttle and bus services, public transit schedules, or COASTER Connection routes, please visit http://parking.ucsd.edu.
Lastly, the Commuter Lounge located on the second floor of the ERC Administration Building is a place for commuters to relax and take a break from a busy day. A great resource for commuters is http://commuter.ucsd.edu. It has up to date traffic information as well as tips, commuting ideas, and other great information for all UC San Diego commuters.
