The University of Illinois at Chicago has long had the reputation of being a commuter school. Students from all over the Chicagoland area, and beyond, have the extra challenge of catching trains and buses to get to campus on time. This year, I joined the flock of commuter students, and I have to rely on the Metra train to get to and from the city. Like so many before me, I quickly became keen to all the extra struggles of being a Metra commuter:
1. First of all, your U-PASS will not cover the fare.
Full-time students are issued a Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Ventra U-PASS, which provides students with unlimited rides on the CTA trains and buses, but that does not include Metra. The University of Illinois at Chicago charges students a transportation fee of $140 per semester, yet it is not much use to Metra commuters, who still have to shell out additional money each month to purchase a Metra pass.
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2. Ticket prices are on the rise.
As part of a new budget for 2018, Metra will be raising the cost of tickets. Considering that many students make the decision to commute to save money, this is very troubling news.
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3. Having to deal with selfish commuters.
There is an all too familiar annoyance that festers within commuters, especially when they get on a crowded train and spot someone who is using the seat next to them for their bag.
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4. On the flip side… wanting to be a selfish commuter.
Having to move your bag when someone wants to sit next to you activates every anti-social atom in your body.
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5. Loud gum chewers.
You can extensively roll your eyes and glance over at them as many times as you want, but loud gum chewers never seem to get the hint.
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6. Finally, the mini anxiety attack that overcomes you
The conductor gets to you, and you do not have your electronic ticket ready.
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