When I was deciding to attend the University of Waterloo, the co-op program was one of the major factors in my decision. I was so excited to be a part of the real work world, while still maintaining the safety net that comes with being a student . Best of all, I had chosen a school far enough from home that I would never have to commute to campus because I’d be forced to live in Waterloo….at least, that was until I had decided to take a co-op job downtown Toronto.
Here lies the new experiences and struggles of living the commuter life. Needless to say, I’m not adapting that well (yet).
1. Waking up early
You would think this would get easier each day – but honestly I think it gets harder and harder to leave my bed every time.
2. Momentary relief of sleeping on the train
Then, the realization hits that if you get out of bed now you can go back to sleep on the train, and the world is good again.
3. Realizing the train ride was too short and you’re still tired
But alas, it’s never enough time. So, you turn to your good old friend caffeine to get you through the day!
4. Repeating the process to go home
And then you’re rushing out of work to catch the subway home because you need to make the train so that you can eventually get the connecting bus before it’s dark again like when you left the house this morning.
5. Going to bed early
By the time you get home, make dinner, and relax – it’s time for bed! Because if you aren’t asleep by 10pm there is no way you’re getting up for that 6:30 train and the whole thing starts over.
It’s a never ending struggle – but I guess that’s what #ADULTING really is anyways – might as well practice now before this is life 24/7! Here’s hoping it gets easier over time (or at least that co-op money can be channeled towards funding your inevitable caffeine addiction).