Coping with the challenge of commuting
A commuting student, simply, is one who does not live on the campus of the university or college. It means that such a student must travel daily for classes and campus activities.
The majority of students attending universities and colleges are commuters. At University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, they account for 80 per cent of the student population. Detailed below are some of the challenges faced by such students.
Long days
Commuting students have to wait around campus in-between classes, making their days long and tiresome. They may also spend a limited time on campus and participate less in co-curricular activities because of the length of time they must spend travelling to and from campus. They must, therefore, develop the art of managing their time wisely.
Making use of campus facilities
Often times they do not make use of learning facilities/opportunities, such as libraries and study groups, since they are often anxious to go home. They are often concerned about where to park and sometimes where to eat.
A lack of familiarity
with campus services
They sometimes do not familiarise themselves with the various services offered, and may therefore miss out certain student opportunities. Sometimes they become so alienated from the campus since they did not spend enough time getting to know others through social interaction. They are therefore likely to lack loyalty to the institution after graduation.
What the university can do
Recognising the needs of commuting students is of vital importance. They comprise the majority of the student population and if learning and development is to take place, students must feel comfortable in their environment.
A student friendly campus should therefore provide facilities and programmes to meet the varying needs. Some suggestions, based on the experience of UWI, Mona, are given below:
1. Provide commuting students’ lounges
This enables students to find a “home away from home”. These could be equipped with microwaves, televisions, magazines and computers. Students, based on their needs, will utilise the facility. The lounge is also used to disseminate vital information on events taking place on campus. Seminars/workshops on student development are also held in these locations.
2. Assist with transportation
Shuttle buses can be used to help commuters move more quickly and comfortably on a daily basis. Students must be encouraged to use the internet and intranet for communication. An E-Mail address should therefore be supplied to all. Accessing vital information on academic programmes and co-curricular is therefore vital.
3. Provide adequate parking
Parking space should be provided at a minimal cost or no cost at all. A map of the campus and a tour during orientation will help them know where it is best to park.
4. Develop targeted co-curricular activities
Developing special programmes targeting such students is also good for sending the message that they are important and valued. A “commuting students’ day” is therefore vital.
5. Provide a commuting students’ newsletter
A notice board and brochure will also help to keep the line of communication open and flowing. Also, having the commuting student represented on relevant committees will help to get them integrated into the school community.
Merrit Henry is the career counsellor and students services manager at the placement and career services unit, UWI, Mona. You may send comments to: merrit.henry@yahoo.com.