Congratulations, Hillers! The future starts now. Whether it’s attending college or going straight into the workforce, decision-making will always be a struggle for any kind of future career. For upcoming college freshmen, one important decision, among all others to be made, is deciding whether living dorm style or commuting to campus is the best fit.
Either living option comes with its learning and enriching experiences. Some students even do both throughout their time in college. Factors that add to a person’s decision include personality, financial situation and personal goals.
Living in a dorm enhances the “college experience.” This can give more opportunities to spend time with fellow students and be involved in student organizations. Socializing with peers can help form connections and build life-long relationships when living in dorms. Commuters who may live 30 minutes from campus might not have as much of a chance to spend time with their classmates.
Trinity Senior Sydney Klick is attending Pennsylvania State University next fall for Elementary and Early Childhood Education. She is so excited to attend her dream school and to meet new friends.
“Having a dorm room gives you the full college experience, and I am looking forward to sharing my room with a roommate,” Klick adds.
If living on campus, academic resources would just be a walk away! Having easier access to libraries, tutors and advisors’ offices can help students feel more comfortable in their environment, knowing that they have the resources to succeed in college.
“Even though everything is new and intimidating, you have a roommate to figure things out with together,” Klick shares.
One advantage to commuting to a college campus is the cost. Room and board for universities is a big contribution to fees and overall cost of college. With the commuter route, this extra fee on top of tuition wouldn’t be a worry. Commuters would only be paying for how they get to campus, whether that would be gas for their car or a ticket for the bus.
With their own space away from the noise of a busy college environment, commuting students have significantly less distractions when it comes to trying to focus on school work or goals they have for themselves. If one is looking for a quiet off-site residence, commuting might just be the option for them!
Senior Faith Hohn is commuting to Washington and Jefferson College next school year for Psychology. She is happy to not share her space with someone else but is concerned about being disconnected from the student life.
“I would definitely consider living in a dorm, but the living expenses can be expensive given the circumstances of financial aid. It also depends on how far I would have to drive to campus,” explains Hohn.
There is no right or wrong way to do college. Students can make their college experience as close to or as far from campus as they like, depending on personal reasons. Good luck, Class of 2026!
