As all college students know, living on campus is very expensive. Thankfully, I live in the city of Chicago, where Loyola is located. I made the decision to commute to school since I live within means of public transportation. Now, my life consists of waking up two and a half hours before my first class even starts, just so I can have enough time to wash up, eat a small breakfast, and make my way to campus.
There are definitely some positives with being a commuter at Loyola. For starters, every Tuesday, commuter students get free coffee in the Commuter Resource Room located in the Damien Student Center. The free coffee definitely helps me save money during the week and helps me stay awake during my 10:00 AM class.
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Besides for the many perks and discounts commuter students receive through Loyola, I also get to take the Red Line. The Red Line is Chicago's most infamous subway line. There is a history of sketchy stories; dried urine on the floor of the train cars, homeless people sleeping in the cars, bed bug scares, and so much more. Despite being so infamous, and very risky to take at night, the Red Line is able to show its riders a whole lot of Chicago.The Red Line rides through countless neighborhoods; from China Town to Rogers Park, the Red Line will show almost all aspects of Chicago, since it is the city's longest subway.
With all of the good aspects of being a commuter, there indeed comes the bad aspects. For starters, I have to wake up a lot earlier than my peers who live on campus. I also can't hang around campus too late since my commute isn't the most convenient. I also face that sinking feeling when I miss my bus or train. Nothing hurts more than running to catch the bus and watch it drive past you. Thanks a lot, CTA.
It sometimes sucks to be a commuter. However, it feels good knowing I'm saving a lot of money since living on campus is very expensive. I also get to see so many parts of the city that I haven't seen before, despite the fact that I've lived in Chicago my entire life. I also get to receive so many perks through Loyola just for being a commuter. I guess I do miss out on the "traditional college" experience by not living on campus, but I know I wouldn't want to deal with issues with my roommate, and all of the other issues that come with living on campus.
I'm enjoying my time at Loyola as a commuter, despite not living on campus, and I would definitely advise future college students to commute to their schools if it is within means, and possible. It can be tough commuting, and honestly, it can be downright tiring. However, it's definitely worth the amount of money I'm saving.
