The Hidden Benefits of Commuting
Many Fitchburg State University students are choosing to commute instead of living on campus. Even though living in dorms may seem more convenient for many students, more students are realizing the advantages of commuting. Off-campus students are learning that commuting can enhance their educational experience in various ways. These benefits range from balancing work and family responsibilities to fostering independence and making use of local resources.
When compared to living on campus, many Fitchburg State students find that commuting offers greater flexibility. Numerous commuters manage to balance their academic obligations, home responsibilities and part-time/full-time jobs. These students are able to continue their studies while keeping up essential responsibilities by living at home or nearby.
Katya, a junior student who lives on campus, says, “Sometimes I wish I commuted so that it wouldn’t feel like I have to be on campus 24/7.”
Commuters gain time management and decision-making skills that will be useful to them in the real post-college world. Students who commute gain invaluable experiences, including planning out their own meals, transporting to school and finding time to study/finish work. All these attributes enable commuter students to mature and encourage independence.
Living off-campus helps many commuters to create a more unique educational experience. In order to maintain a work-life balance, be close to family, or just enjoy the freedom of living alone, commuting can offer a sense of balance that living on campus might not be able to match. “I like being able to go home after class and still have time to do stuff instead of being tied to campus all the time,” says Jeff, a FSU graduate. Even though Katya lives on campus and Jeff commutes, they both express similar express appreciation for the perks of commuting.
Although there are perks to living in a dorm, students can experience many components of academic life by commuting. By creating their own networks, keeping in touch with local and academic resources (including clubs) and most importantly, managing their own schedules, off-campus students can experience college on their own terms.
