For many college students, one of the most important decision is whether to commute to school versus whether to continue to live at home with parents. Which is the best decision? This really depends on a student's personal situation. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider when deciding between commuting to college or living at home.
Advantages to Being a Commuter Student
One of the main reasons why students choose to stay at home with their parents is that this option allows them to save money – perhaps thousands of dollars per year. This is especially true when students attend colleges and universities where room and board comes with a steep price tag, or when colleges are located in cities where student apartments are out of reach.
For some students, the money saved by living at home can mean significantly less hours spent at a part time job – or may be the deciding factor that allows a student to attend school at all. The money saved could also mean a lower student loan debt, and that's something that can make a big difference over the years.
Another advantage to being a commuter student is that going to college is less of a stressful transition. Most freshmen find the academic transition from high school to college to be a bit overwhelming. For students who are doing this and also moving away to college, that's quite a life change.
In addition, commuter students generally have fewer distractions than on-campus students when it comes to academic success. Sure, there may be Mom with a list of chores, or a little brother playing with his band in the garage. But that probably doesn't compare to noise dorm neighbors and the constant access to parties and activities on campus.
Disadvantages to Being a Commuter Student
For many students, the main disadvantage to not commuting is that it makes it much more difficult to have the traditional college experience, and this is something that many students want. Yes, commuter students can still join clubs and be a part of campus, and keep in mind that many commuter students do feel active and involved in campus life. But for other students, this just isn't the same thing as being a part of the action by living on campus. Commuter students may not make as many friends or get as involved in on-campus activities, and may feel isolated.
Commuter students also lose out on the opportunity to leave the house and forge some independence. True, not everyone is ready for this, and there's no rule that says a student can't wait a few years to leave the nest. Nonetheless, moving away from home to go to college can be a valuable, maturing experience for many students.
In addition, before a student becomes a commuter, it's important to consider the costs of the commute. Driving to school daily, parking, and maintaining a car can potentially be very expensive, especially if the student lives a significantly distance from school. Students should be sure to look into lower cost alternatives, like public transit and carpooling.
In relation to this, commuting can be a stressful part of anyone's day. For commuters who live close to campus or who can rely on good public transportation, the trip to school may be no big deal. However, for students who are dealing with long commutes and difficult traffic conditions, this may be a deciding factor on whether to move to campus.
Living With Parents: An Advantage or a Disadvantage?
For some students, the thought of continuing to live with parents after high school graduation is a huge disadvantage. For others, though, the prospect isn't so bad. Students (and parents) need to consider the particulars of their relationships before deciding on whether this arrangement is right for them.
Even for students who get along well with parents, living at home as a commuter student will bring some challenges. Students and parents need to have some honest talks about expectations such as chores, curfews, and what exactly parents will and won't be paying for now.
Life as a commuter student isn't for everyone, but for many, it's truly the best option. Take the time to consider advantages and disadvantages, including cost savings and expenses.
Naomi Rockler-Gladen - Instructional designer and freelance writer, Naomi Rockler-Gladen writes some of Suite101's most read work.
