When it’s time to go to college, you have two choices: commuter or resident. Now, when you have the chance to save the money, there’s no question; I’d rather be a commuter. I mean, I can stay in my own room, I don’t have to leave my dog and it’s all for free. However, the commuter lifestyle isn’t always easy. In fact, I’ve narrowed down 15 problems with commuter life.
1. Parking
Which lot do I park in again? Besides the obvious downside of paying for parking pass, there’s the issue of finding a parking spot.
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2. Travel Time
The commuter lifestyle wouldn’t be complete without this aspect. Except now, I can’t help but think that life would be so much simpler if I didn’t have morning classes and live 40 minutes away.
3. Rush Hour Traffic And Other Hazards
Nothing ruins your day more than when you a see a line of cars slowly crawling on the highway. Not to mention, the confusing road detours, construction or even animal crossings. Why couldn’t driving be simple?
4. Gas Money And Car Upkeep
I’m sorry, how much do I spend on gas? You don’t think about it over the summer, but those gas bills really add up. It almost makes you wonder if commuting was the more affordable option.
5. Carrying Your Book Bag
I definitely foresee visits to a chiropractor in my future. Textbooks are heavy, but so is lugging anything else you might need around campus.
6. Gaps In Your Schedule
It’s always a nice feeling have a break before rushing off to your next class. Just not so great when it’s a four-hour long break. Yes, I know there’s a ton of stuff to do but the boredom is real.
7. Binge-Reading And Homework
Another part of the true college experience. As a commuter, you are reminded constantly to stay on campus and do your work; which is exactly what you do non-stop.
8. Naptime (or rather a lack of nap time)
After all that reading, you're pretty tired but there is no naptime for a commuter like me. Now, there may be some commuters out there who are brave enough to find place to nap on campus, I’m just not one of them.
9. Learning The Campus
Even when you go to school with a small campus this is still a problem. I just don’t have the time to explore, so I guess I’ll go walking with my map.
10. Making Friends
It’s tough finding your friend group if you’re not on campus all the time. All the residence students have plenty of time to buddy up, try not to feel bad if you only know four people.
11. Joining Clubs Or Sports
Being involved in your school is a must for every college student. The only question now is, "How do I fit everything into my schedule?"
12. Time Management
Classes, a good night's sleep, travel time, clubs, sports and maybe a part-time job, where does it all fit?
13. Responsibilities At Home
I know for myself that home feels more like a rest stop, so it sucks when the weekend comes around and you have a list of chores to complete.
14. Being Out Of The Loop
Twitter and Facebook are just not enough if you want to know what’s happening on campus. Befriend a resident.
15. Seeing Your Friends Post About Residence Life
To all my friends living in residence, my commuter life is just as awesome as your Snapchatstory.
All in all, college is the next great chapter in your life so try and enjoy it whether as a commuter or a resident.
