Commuting gets a bad rap— which I absolutely understand. As a commuter, I’m not overjoyed for Chicago’s winter weather to dump snow around the city’s narrow, pothole-plagued streets. Nor am I looking forward to the salt I’ll inevitably trudge in to get to my car. Let’s not even mention the extra 30 minutes said weather adds to the drive! Whether you drive to and from the suburbs or take the shuttle to Water Tower, your daily commute doesn’t have to be a drag with the following six tips.
1. Listen to podcasts. It took me all of three days to finish Serial, a 12-episode series where a reporter delves into the murky circumstances of a brutal 1999 murder. You’ll be so hooked by the first episode; I guarantee you’ll miss your freeway exit. Don’t fret if murder mysteries aren’t your thing; there are plenty of subject matters to float your boat: sports, documentaries, history, economics, even Ted Talks.
2. “Read” Audiobooks. These are a perfect way to pass the time on the shuttle or in the driver’s seat of your car. Listen to books you’re reading in class if you’re really pressed on time, or finish that book you “meant to start, but never actually did.”
3. Chit-chat. Offer a ride to a friend, and use the drive to catch up on your busy lives. Venting to a close friend will make those dreadful morning classes a little more tolerable.
4. Music. Make playlists full of your favorite songs— extra fun if you’re jamming out with a friend, and a guaranteed laugh from the driver beside you. Switch it up and include tunes circa your tween years— I’m talking Hilary Duff, “High School Musical” sing-alongs, and the beloved Jonas Brothers.
5. Switch up your route. Don’t take the same monotonous route. I like to take Lake Shore Drive to campus and admire my scenic surroundings. If you’re on the shuttle, sit closest to the window and look at the lake. If taking the El, it’s the perfect time to people watch!
6. De-stress. I find driving relaxing, so I use this quiet time to my advantage. It’s a good time to unload the day’s stresses and unwind— I think of it as some much-needed “me” time.
Every collegiette will have to commute at least once in their life, so make your precious time count!