Tips for Families of Commuter Students

Commuter students face many of the same adjustment-to-college concerns all students face: making new friends, finding ways to become involved, time management, handling college finances, and learning new study skills. There are also some unique challenges for students living at home or off campus.

Commuters often believe their classmates who live on campus have more time to engage socially and therefore have more fun, friends, and freedom. Commuters can have the same opportunities as residential students, but where they live means they must approach those opportunities somewhat differently.

What Family Can Do

• Family who understand the unique challenges of commuter students can help make the college experience better for their student.
• Acknowledge the commute. Recognize the time your student spends waiting for a bus, riding to school, driving, or finding parking. Scheduling a checkup on the car (or bike) will show your student that you think his or her commute is important.
• Acknowledge your student’s commitment to academics. By talking about changes in family chores and granting more flexibility for household responsibilities, you will let your student know that you understand and respect that college is demanding.
• Be alert to stressful times; mark them on your calendar. Midterms and exams are particularly difficult times for students. Taking over chores for your student, providing treats, or filling the gas tank of the car are valued gifts during those difficult times.
• Encourage your student to stay on campus between classes and to attend athletic events, concerts, and other student activities. Students feel more committed to college and have a higher success rate when they participate in activities and share experiences with other students.
• Assist your student by purchasing or encouraging them to purchase the Commuter Meal Plan. Eating on campus is another way students can connect to each other, develop important peer networks of support, and be a part of study groups.
• Many commuter students work. Students will find benefits to working at an on-campus job where the support of college-based supervisors and the time on campus are beneficial.

Be aware of campus news and events. Ask your student to explain the things you don’t understand. If you acknowledge the importance of what’s happening at the University, your student will, too.

Most importantly, make sure your student is aware of the Commuter Resource Center! The Commuter Resource Center (CRC) is a home away from home for many students. The CRC is located in the Stevenson Union on the Ashland campus.

Designed with the special needs of the non-traditional and commuting student in mind, the CRC offers a friendly and supportive environment where students can connect with others and access information about programs and services available for commuter students and their families. Students have access to a lounge, computer lab, kitchenette, nap area, group study tables, and a play area. We have fax and copy services and locker sign-ups.

The CRC provides opportunities for students to get involved both on campus and within the larger community. The center is always looking for student workers and volunteers to help develop and organize events and programs of interest to commuter students and their families.