So you got into your dream college, and you can’t wait to escape your hometown and curfew. Moving away from home, making new friends, and learning how to live independently are all exciting adventures that await your future, and you can’t wait to learn! You’ve packed up your clothes and your favorite photos of your besties, but one thing missing from your college survival kit: the freedom of transportation. If you’re moving away from home and realizing you’ll no longer have access to borrowing your parent’s car 24/7, don’t sweat it, I promise you will survive!
I’ve spent the past two years at UCF without a car, and I’ve compiled my best tips to help you get around without that fresh set of wheels that are missing from your dream.
Live On Campus
You might have your heart set on the luxurious, yet bank-breaking, apartments a few miles down the road from campus, but living at school had its perks. Other than being able to walk everywhere you need to go, you’ll be able to make friends with the residents in your building, and be able to sleep in extra 30 minutes before class. I spent my freshman year living in Lake Claire, and it was one of the best places for me to walk to class every day. UCF has a huge campus that acts as a mini-city, and I was able to do and see so much without ever having to leave. But when we can’t stay here forever, there are other options available.
Take the Shuttles
The shuttles are a gem that don’t get the recognition they deserve. UCF shuttles are free and run to all different parts of Orlando. Need to get groceries? Head on the grocery shuttle that comes every Tuesday to stock up on your favorite snacks. Want to go to Disney? Take the shuttle that runs to the Rosen campus, and your Über from there will only be around $10. Want to grab a bite to eat off campus? Take the different apartment route shuttles that drop off near restaurants, such as Plaza and Colligate Village Inn. Plus if you DO live off campus without a car (currently me), you’ll already be a pro at knowing how they operate.
Be Nice to Your Roommates
If you build up a strong bond with your roommates, I guarantee they will offer to drive you places in times of need. But make sure to hit them with some gas money as a thank you for their favor.
When All Else Fails, Über
What a great age it is that we are now encouraged to go against our parent’s wishes of getting in a car with a stranger. Yet Über and Lyft are powerful tools that will get you where you need to be, without the hassle. UCF even offers 50% rides Friday and Saturday (k)nights to make sure we stay safe!
Being car-less might seem to be the biggest inconvenience out there, but it has humbled me to think outside the box when it comes to getting around. Remember that when the glorious moment comes that you do get a car of your own, be sure to pay back all your friends in the form of rides to thank them for putting up with you the past couple of semesters.