What do you do when there’s such a big gap?
Welcome, or welcome back, to A Commuter’s Guide! From setting your alarm to finding the best parking spot for you, I’m here for all the highs and lows, and everything in between. If you haven’t already read the last two articles in this series, I highly recommend you do so before this one. I won’t hold it against you if you don’t; I’m glad you’re here. With that being said, let’s get going because we have places to be.
NOTE
As commuters, having time in between classes is extremely valuable for taking time for yourself and being productive. Before we move forward with today’s article, I want to say: just because people around you spend their free time with friends doesn’t mean you have to. Just because you see people alone, not with friends, doesn’t mean you have to also. Spend time with people you care about, and also make time for yourself! Both are just as important for your mental health and prevention of burnout. No matter what you do, use your time however feels best.
GET PRODUCTIVE
The best way to fill your time in between classes is to get productive.
Being productive looks different for everyone. If you like to get as much work done as possible before the next class, I recommend getting out of your car or going from your next class to a quiet place where you can work. If you don’t want to be alone during this time and still want to get work done, invite a few friends you know will get to work or study with you. The goal of a quiet space is to limit distractions and get as much done as possible; if you need music or to work with friends, do it.
If you feel that your time is best spent as more of a ‘me time’ type of vibe, that’s ok as well, as long as it’s not all the time. One of my favorite things to do, especially during the colder months, is to take a nap in my car, scroll while laying down in the back seat, and just chill. Just because you don’t have a dorm doesn’t mean you can’t make one on the go! If that isn’t for you, no worries. Going for a walk around campus or using campus facilities like the gym, pool, track, and even workout classes might be for you.
BEST STUDY SPOTS ON ROWAN’S CAMPUS
- James Hall
- Discovery Hall
- Business Hall
- Student Center
- Campbell Library
- High Grounds
- Cream Cafe
If you are interested in a study room on campus, use this link to book in advance!
GET INVOLVED
Getting involved in a sport, club, or off-campus activity with peers is easier said than done; however, it is a great way to be an active member of campus life, fill your time, and make friends along the way.
I know how hard it is to make friends as a commuter and even in college in general. The best advice I can give to help you make friends and get involved is to meet people in unconventional ways. Take me as an example: I made a TikTok video, used a few hashtags with #RowanUniversity being one of them, and boom! Like magic, I met new people and have already met up with them in person!
It is so easy to feel alone in college, but many people are going through similar things! Take this and use it to your advantage; try something new, something that scares you even. It’s hard at first, but after the storm comes a rainbow.
UNTIL NEXT TIME!
To wrap things up, use your time how you see fit, but do it wisely. If you know a deadline or test is approaching, the best thing you can do for yourself is prepare. You will thank yourself for being productive instead of scrambling.
Thank you so much for reading, and I hope to see you in the next commuter’s guide article.