Hey guys, I saw the term 'commuter student' floating around on different college sites. I'm not exactly sure what it means. Can anyone clarify?
Sure, I'd be happy to explain! A 'commuter student' is a term used to describe a student who lives off-campus, often with family, roommates, or alone, and travels to campus for classes. They might drive, bike, walk, or use public transportation to get to school, hence the 'commuter' part of the term.
It's worth noting that being a commuter student can drastically change the college experience. The commute itself can significantly impact daily routines, and it can feel different from the on-campus living experience, such as dorms or apartments affiliated with the institution. On the flip side, it can also help to save on living costs associated with on-campus living options as room and board can be a significant portion of educational expenses.
Being a commuter doesn't make one detached from the college community, though. Many universities have commuter student associations or dedicated services to help facilitate engagement, support, and inclusion of commuter students in campus life. For example, there might be lounge areas specifically for commuters or special events tailored to them.
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