The Perfect Commute.

All commuters know that a good or bad commute sets up your whole day, it influences your mood tremendously. This week I experienced the "perfect commute." A perfect commute is a commute where everything goes in your favor on the road and in the car. Here's a look at my perfect commute. A perfect commute has three qualification which are as follows...

1. Positively sets up your day.
2. Everything on the road goes in your favor.
3. The radio adds to the atmosphere of your commute.

The Morning Of...

It was a Friday, which only adds to a commute, as it marks the ending of a long week. I woke up at a normal time around 7:00 am and it was one of the coldest mornings of the month, which means a cold car. However, my brother ended up leaving 10 minutes before me and was able to start my car up with the heat blaring. Score! 

Though like most of the time, I felt like I was running late and hurried to school, but this time with a warm car to enjoy! 

The Commute.

Jumping into my warm car, I was presently greeted with some great oldies on the radio which included Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen along with others that I can't remember at the moment but were good. As I cruised along and hit my first and second stop sign down east grand avenue (picture to the right) there was no line of cars that I had to wait for. It was almost like I was the only car on the road, no one was going 10 mph under the speed limit or behind me riding within 10 inches from my bumper.

Continuing on my way, I headed down route 1, which consists of multiple traffic lights. They all seemed to be green or turn green as I approached them. By this point in my commute I was already satisfied with the great music and all the advantages, but what really pushed my commute over the top was when I approached the "Y" in the road that yields onto a back road. Usually, I spend what seems like 5 minutes waiting for an opportunity to turn, but a silver ford focus stopped in the middle of the road and waved be by. Lastly, as I turned into the universities parking lot, I got my favorite parking spot outside of my first and last class on Fridays, which is rarely open. As Ice Cube might say "Today was a good day."

The Perfect Commute

As you can see from what I deem as my perfect commute, it is does not take much and it is the little things that add up. 

China Eatery.

Being a commuter, living on my own, there is no meal plan. At first, I took pride in making dinner every night, but that didn't last long. I happened to stumble upon the glory that is Chinese food.

China Eatery.

Coming home around 5 or 8pm each night, with homework to do, there isn't much motivation to cook a healthy meal. Two weeks into school, after having hamburger helper for 14 days straight, my brother introduced me to a little place about 5 minutes from the house we are renting out. At first skeptical, as I have never been a fan of Chinese food, the order was placed and I was introduced to something that would forever change my commuting experience. It is a little place called China Eatery, the combination of General Tso's Chicken, Egg Role, Pork Fired Rice, and Wonton Soup (also known as a C18), has become necessary for the commuting lifestyle.

Commuting and the Freshman 15.

The moral of this blog is that commuting does not eliminate the possibility of the Freshman 15. Even though you loose the availability of the universities cafeteria food, I have found that the rigorous academics of college provides a gateway to unhealthy eating. At the ending of senior year, I weighed in at approximately 155lbs, now I am tipping the scales at 170lbs.  However, I have been hitting the gym and Chinese food is not all at fault for my weight gain, I think it is safe to say that it has had an influence. The combination of driving home after a long day, and doing homework late into the night, the convenience that easy and fast dinners serves to both commuters and those living in dorms. 

Withering of the wallet...

Furthermore, the cost at which commuting brings upon me, extends beyond gas. Placing 3-4 orders a week on a fast food joint takes a toll on your finances. At $17.66 for two meals to feed both my brother and I, it seems like a deal at first, but overtime cuts into our budget. We always seem to justify it by saying it's football Sunday or college ball Saturday, never the less it adds up. I have calculated that we spend $70.64 a week on Chinese between the two of us. Considering that we only have an allotted amount of  $100.00 a  week between the two of us, and with other expenses, it shows that when considering commuting you may want to be financially conscious or have a mom and dad you can rely on to send dinner your way? Either way it is ideal that you understand that commuting not only can also add inches to the waist but take inches away from your wallet as well.

Commuting and Responsibility.

The one thing that I have learned most from my decision to live on my own and commute to school is by far; being more responsible and mature. Self sustainable, time management, and financial responsibility are quickly adapted too when you decide to commute from your own place. These factors separate us commuters from those who choose to live on campus, it isn't for the weak minded, and demands self control and determination. Consider this when deciding to commute.

The Week Before Break

Well, the majority of the semester has come and gone. This week marks the last week before  thanksgiving break! With only this Monday left, before I can kick back my feet and relax, it has been a struggle. Motivation levels are approaching zero, and waking up at 7:00 to head to class each morning is getting old. Here is a glimpse of my week...

Monday

Like every other Monday, marking the beginning of the long school week, I drag myself through the day. ALL my professors feel like it's a good time for exams and papers, probably due to the upcoming break, I take note of what is due by the end of the week. 

Tuesday

Go to work and look at my computer screen, ready to start my English paper, waiting for inspiration. Nothing gets done.

Wednesday

Realizing the week is half over, but considering I have the weekend to get things done for Monday, I chip away at my homework that is the least intellectually  engaged as possible. I was able to get the introduction to my English paper over with, and finished my pre-labs for biology and chemistry. Just plain tired, I was able to get in a gym-sesh to clear my head, a pretty productive day.

Thursday

Polishing off my English essay during work, I decided to stay up late, I regretted this Friday.

Friday

Oh what a day. Waking up, I was already considering skipping my first class, but decided against it seeming that I have had a perfect attendance all year. Ironically, I may have jinxed myself. On my way to English, believe it or not, I got another flat tire. After putting the spare on my car, I only missed my English class, so much for my perfect attendance. After my chemistry quiz, which I'm pretty sure I failed, I headed to a tire shop to fix my car. This just added to the worst week of college I have ever had. I just want it to be break already!

Saturday (Today)

Realizing I only have two days to get a week's worth of homework done; I spend all day working at my desk. I can honestly say that this is by far the worst week of my life. It's 11:00pm and I am exhausted, I was able to get the majority of my work done, but still have a little bit of English to do tomorrow and study for my Psychology exam for Monday. Wish me luck.

Roadblock 2.0

Two weeks ago, I wrote about how sometimes you cannot control certain aspects of commuting, and put it in perspective with my own story. Last year when I was commuting to my general chemistry class, I collided with a deer, making me late for class, and a burden due to the fact I had to drive my mothers car until my own car was out of the shop. Well you can probably guess what happened this week...

Not again.

It was a lousy Monday, as any other Monday marking the beginning of the school week, I prepare myself for the usual 9:00am-8:00pm day. Heading to class, it was a pretty ordinary Monday, dragging myself throughout the day due to the lack of sleep that Mondays bring, I finally make it to my last class. As the time ticks away, the clock strikes 8:00, I rush to my car and crank up the heat. Pulling out of the parking lot, it strikes me, thump, thump thump. 

It's a flat. Pulling over to asses the situation, I conclude that the damage is pretty severe, nothing a can of Fill-A-Flat will fix. The picture provided shows exactly "how flat" my tire actually was. On top of it all, this particular Monday was pretty much below freezing. At least this incident didn't happen before class. 

Resorting to Plan B, I start the process of putting on the spare tire. But of coarse the jack that I have in my trunk is probably the lousiest ever built, every time I attempted to unscrew the lug nuts, I could hear my car teeter back and fourth. Managing with what I had, I finally secured the spare donut, which I would have to say was pretty stylish. Finishing up, I arrive back home way late, giving you just another glimpse of commuter encounters.



I have included a link on how to change a flat tire in the helpful sites list, I highly recommend visiting it if your are considering commuting, it just might come in handy one day.

The Hunger Games.

11:00am marks lunch time for me. With an hour to munch away, there are many options to consider when eating as a commuter student, here are a few I've experienced.

1. Kicking it Old School (Lunchbox Style)
2. Cafeteria
3. Starvation

Some more efficient then others, but time being the enemy, I can only choose one of three options.

Kicking it Old School (Lunchbox Style)

At first, being enthusiastic as I approached the commuting lifestyle, every night before bed I would prepare a nutritious, healthy, fully packed, lunchbox. Usually consisting of a turkey or chicken sandwich on wheat bread, granola bar, apple, juice box, some dried fruit, a Capri-Sun for hydration, and a Snickers for dessert. Preparing your own lunch, you can choose to eat healthy, and avoid the weight gain that all college students are exposed too. It is convenient to wake up, shower, get dressed, grab my lunchbox and head-out. Then come lunch time, you can find a decent place to sit down and munch, without worrying about figuring out where you can find some grub.However, preparation is a pain in the you know what. Even though it takes less then 5 minutes to prepare, some days I just don't find the energy in myself to commit. Though, I strongly recommend preparing your own lunch, it saves time during the day, and is far less expensive then eating out.  So, that leads me to my next point, improvise.

Cafeteria!

Preparing a lunch for each day, is not very practical for less motivated students, every now and then I find myself waiting in line at the campus cafe. Though it is an even more of a hassle to walk across campus, wait in line, pay cash, and then by the time you receive your food, 20 minutes has passed. However, ordering from the campus cafe, I have noticed that it is much more filling (and delicious) , then anything I can prepare myself. On the other hand, it is VERY expensive, spending $7 a day on a meal is much more then the $3 I spend per meal when shopping myself. Every now and then, it is a nice little treat, but only once in awhile. There is one more option, but it isn't very joyful.

Starvation.

I do not recommend this, but sometimes you have to resort to simply not eating until you get back home. Whether it is because you forgot to grab your lunch and have no money, or you don't have the time, eating nothing for a day is inevitable. It has happened to me numerous times, due to feeling of exhaustion, I try to avoid this at all possible cost.

Overall, when it comes to college dining, you have to be conscious of how you operate. Make sure to have a few dollar bills for the cafe, in the case you forget lunch. But, if possible be sure to bring you own grub, it will save time and money!

Roadblock.

It is bound to happen, sooner or later, as a commuter you will be late to class. Whether it is sleeping in to late, running out of gas, or an accident, commuting offers so many obstacles that prevent you from making it to class on time. I remember the first time it happened to me, it goes a little something like this..

Oh Deer.

At the time, I was commuting from my parents house, and was inexperienced when it comes to commuting. I would often wait last minute to leave, drive with the gas light on, and other things I shouldn't have chanced.

This particular day, started out just like any other. Waking up after a much needed nap, I made myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, watched a little sports center, and got ready for class. Leaving for my 1:00pm General Chemistry lecture, I stopped at the local gas station. Deciding to spend my money on a slice of pizza and a Redbull, instead of gas, I continued on my commute. 

It was a great day, the sun was shining, Jay-Z was on the radio, and no cars on the road. Cruising around a corner, I see it out of the corner of my eye: a deer. Time slowed and I watched as the path of my car converged with the path of the deer. Slamming on my breaks, the deer is shot up and over the corner of my car, but my focus remains on the road ahead. Swerving in and out of each lane, my car comes to a stop, after a complete 180 degree turn. 

It being my first accident, I was pretty shaken up. After calling the police and filing a report, my mother arrives and let's me take her car. I ended up missing my lecture, but she made sure I was still able to make it to my lab. As you can see in the picture, the damages to my car where upwards of $8,000. The next 4 weeks I was stuck driving my mother's girly Mazda Miata around. 

It is worth noting commuting can be dangerous, and can cause multiple problems. Luckily, I was fortunate to have a spare vehicle. 

A Day in the Life.

The heading explains it all. As I sink deeper into the commuting lifestyle, I can see my life shape before my eyes. From 9:00 am-5:00 pm it is a life filled with classes, friends, and fun! As the clock turns 5:00 pm, all this ends and I drive away. Let's take a look at the day in the life, of yours truly...

Waking up-Heading to class...

After showering and a cup of coffee, I enjoy a egg-white sandwich on an everything bagel. Packing a lunch, I grab my backpack and rush to school, not sure if I'll make it on time but somehow I always manage to squeeze through the door of my 9:00 am class just in time. Every morning seems like a rush when you have to prepare for a commute.

Class-Lunch Break...

The first two classes are the worst, half asleep, I just try and manage to write the things down I need to do and plan on doing them later. At lunch time, from 11:00 am-12:00 pm for me, I walk back to my car and eat my lunch. I know, why not eat in inside? Well...a 19 year old carrying around a lunch box, come on. Instead, I sit and listen to music, and munch on a turkey sandwich and whatever else I manage to stuff into my lunchbox. When I finish early, I leave my car and head to my next class. Waiting for the doors to open at 12:00, I usually study, chill with friends, or resort to my phone for games.

Class-End of Day.

At this time of the day, my energy level is at its max...usually. I spend the next 5 hours in lectures and labs. Two hours in, I munch on an apple-cinnamon granola bar, and sip on water throughout the day. Trying to absorb all the knowledge possible in class, I have no time for homework or studying. As the day finishes up, I pack my things and return to my car.

Commute-Apartment...

Now, I am starving, my roommate (brother) gives me crap for grabbing a sandwich because he hasn't eaten either. Usually after a day of classes, there isn't much work, as I only have class every other day, so I head to the gym. Upon returning home, my roommate has dinner ready, and we eat. As you can see from the picture, we eat pretty good. Of all the things I have learned, cooking good meals is probably the best of them.

 From 8:00 pm-bed, watch television (sports center or family guy), and depending on my motivation, I may chip away at some homework.

As you can see, this isn't the exciting life that a lot of people imagine. It's not that I don't have fun, but on a daily basis, this is what you can expect. Weekends are a whole different story.

The Downside.

Overall, commuting in my opinion is far better then I could have ever imagined, but nothing is perfect, and that includes commuting to college. Here are three solid downsides:

1. The Commute
2. Lack of Campus Resources
3. More Responsibility

Let's explore how much of a hassle these can be.

The Commute

The frustration that comes from waking up a precious 20 minutes earlier can grow to be very annoying. Even though it's only 20 minutes, a mere 1200 seconds, it is a significant difference when thinking about hitting the "snooze" button each morning. On top of that, each day when you are ready to head back home, it takes another 20 minutes out of your day. What you don't notice at first, is that you have to consider that you will not be around campus for evening homework, which leads to point #2...

Lack of Campus Resources

The absence of campus resources can prove to be aggravating. It is essential to get things that require campus resources done before you head back for the night, it will save time and money! Though, more likely than not, you will forget something that requires the library perhaps. This results in either one of two options, you drive all the way back or head in early the next morning. Also, when considering what you want for dinner, you can't just go to the cafeteria. Making a grocery list each week and sticking to it, is harder then it sounds. Especially when you return home at 8:00am after a long day, then realize you have to make a dinner that takes an hour. Peanut butter and fluff sandwiches become your favorite meal before you know it. Of coarse, without campus resources handed to you, a little more responsibility is required.

More responsibility

Commuting can be related to a job, you drive in each day and go home each night. By choosing to commute, it is mostly a decision to skip the phase of life that transitions you from living with you mom and dad, to dorm lifestyle that requires a little more responsibility and prepares you for living completely independent. Instead, by making the decision to commute from your own residence, you are thrust into adult hood very quickly. Whether it is paying rent on time each month, stocking your fridge, balancing a job to pay for all the bare essentials, or performing well inside the class room. There is little time for the "fun" things that college is suppose to have. But, by managing your time well, going to each and every class, and making responsible decisions, the satisfaction of independence is sometimes "fun" itself. Though, by not choosing to live in a dorm, I can't help but question how my life would have been different.

Social Life.

 

Who says commuting is just for extroverts?

    Many blogs about commuting often make the assumption that it is a requirement  to be extremely out-going, when considering commuting. I would have to disagree. I am not the most out-going person, and I often would rather head back to my place then stay and socialize on campus. This doesn't mean I have no friends. There is so many opportunities to meet new people, even when not trying to. Labs, Lectures, events, work studies, and just being on campus are a few ways that you can meet new people.

Labs + Lectures

    Most students have at least two labs a week, during labs you are forced to work with others, and even have a designated lab partner. This is a great way to meet other students, I can guarantee friendships will be built. Even the shyest of people have to communicate with other students to proceed in the lab, helping each other with equipment, and exchanging data. Lectures as well demand the need for communication, you will meet new people as you seek help or they seek help from you when understanding materials covered in class. One way or another, new friendship will began to form.

Work Studies + School Events + Being on Campus

    Here are a few more options that allow for the opportunity of meeting new people. Work studies are great! You get paid to study and do homework for the most part, and every now and then do a little bit of work. I work in the mail room, and handing out packages to the occasional person, I have met plenty of cool people  You will find that the friendliness of the college life, is much better then those days of high school where everyone is judgmental. For example, just being on campus, in the library perhaps, it is inevitable to meet new people and connect with others that you can hangout with outside of the classroom.

On Campus.

Commuter students do not have the luxury of returning to a dorm, though spending countless hours in your vehicle can be prevented. 

Class Schedule.

Most colleges allow you the opportunity to organize your class schedule, arranging it in your favor, and saving an abundance of time. For me, I scheduled all my classes on Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays, allowing Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturdays to do as I please. 

The downside: I spend 8 hours three days a week on campus. Though it may not seem like a long time, comprehending all the material covered in each class, may be difficult at times. Also, exams tend to fall on the same day. Four consecutive, vigorous, mentally-draining tests can never be joyful. 

The upside: I have an abundant amount of time, without interruption, to study, work, or catch up on sleep/relax. The amount of gas is limited, and I save two commutes a weak, thus saving cash. 

The point: When considering your class schedule, take into consideration all of the points explained above. One thing that may work for me, may not work for someone else, spreading out classes may be beneficial to you. Also, one thing I may do next semester, is scheduling all my classes in the same buildings, or group them at least. Thus, preventing the 5 minute walk in the rain, or being close to the parking lot to exchange books, or grabbing a bite to eat.

The Parking Lot.

Luckily the college I attend, provides many commuter parking lots, spread throughout the campus. During hot days, I find it luxurious to park in the shade, so when I retreat to my car to eat lunch it is cool and comfortable. Another factor to consider when choosing a parking lot would be; position. Try to position your car in a place away from other vehicles. Squeezing into a space, may result in various dents to the side of your vehicle. Though we may be adults now, students still don't get the concept of hitting another car with your door, isn't the nicest thing to do. 

Familiarity.

The last, and possibly the most crucial concept, is becoming familiar with what your campus has to offer. As a commuter, school seems more like a job, and your unlikely to become familiar with areas outside your work space. Exploring various building can be very convenient, some things you may want to seek out are; libraries, learning assistance centers, and of coarse; cafeterias. Knowing where you can find help, study places, or food, will save you time. You will also reduce the situations of humility, in asking for directions, because you don't know where to find a slice of pizza. Becoming familiar with your campus will ultimately prove essential by providing yourself with comfort in down time between classes.

On the Road Again...

Fortunately, I only have to tolerate a 20-25 minute commute each day, rather then 45-60 minutes as some of the fellow commuters have shared. Though, it is incredible the obstacles that this short period of time can generate. Some that are aggravating, others that are just plain bizarre...

The Drive.

Growing up in a relatively small town, driving through the city with stop-and-go traffic each day, takes some getting used too. From experience, I can suggest one key component to ease each morning commute: time is everything. Having an adequate amount of time is ideal. 

Each day, leaving 5-10 minutes early allows a "safety net" of sorts, for the obstacles that may occur. Whether it be the construction work (which is currently being developed on my main route) or the mad man with impulsive road rage that always seems to target you. In addition, I have generated a list that I believe, as a commuter, should be noticed:

1. Parking
2. Alternative Routes
3. Cops
4. Gas
5. Construction
6. Traffic
7. Weather

It may be hard to believe but not everyone obeys the speed limits. Though as a commuter, being late for an exam isn't particularly a good way to start a day.  Knowing your way around town, and having a variety of back roads that you can depend on in the event of construction or road closures, or even for avoiding heavy traffic hours. Gas, the most obvious necessity, should be greatly observed, from gas stations, prices, and even your vehicles fuel tank can come a long way in preventing disastrous situations. I find it helpful to keep a 10 dollar bill in my car for the occasional times I find myself with no money on me. Weather is another notable experience you may face. Down pours often cause slower traffic and planning ahead is key. These are just a few of the often overlooked obstacles a beginning commuter may face, but being aware will help in finding a solid routine to the commuting lifestyle.

The Weird and Bizarre Scenarios of Commuting...

By far the favorite part of my commute, is witnessing some of the strange encounters on my daily drive. The most memorable, due to the irony, was last week when I had to stop, as a chicken crossed the road (this is in the middle of the city). Another one of my favorites would be the various objects in the road; trash, large boxes, and once even a girls bike standing straight up with the kick stand out? Other things that are just surprising, are how some of the other people on the road can be so arrogant. Squeezing/forcing themselves into the lane and riding as close to the back of my car as possible are some examples, though every now and then there will be some considerate drivers who let you in a line of backed up traffic for example. The point being: pay attention. Other then the fact you'll likely to prevent accidents, but also it is a little amusing!

The Commuter Survival Pack

Commuting can be a dangerous lifestyle, and requires much preparation. From leaving the driveway at 8:15am to returning home by 5:00pm, there will be certain necessities to ease your way throughout the day. 

The Backpack.

First and foremost lets take a look at the backpack:

1. Laptop
2. Quality (bigger then most) Backpack.
3. College Ruled Spiral Notebooks
4. Pens/Pencils
5. Laptop
6. Headphones
7. Calculator
8. Laptop
9. Individual Class Folders
10. Laptop

As you may have guessed by the list above, bringing your laptop along with you is a must. Finding yourself with an hour of spare time between classes, without a laptop you will find that any productive time becomes increasingly difficult. I would like to point out that "spiral notebooks" for writing paper and "individual class folders," whether you have that specific class during the present day, is a must. Having these two items is very helpful in the down time for studying.

Inside the Car.

Another factor you may want to consider is what you bring along with you within your vehicle:

1. Lunchbox
2. Phone Charger
3. CD/Ipod/Iphone Stereo Player
4. Class Text Books
5. Jacket/Rain Coat
6. Umbrella (optional)
7. Spare Change
8. Water Bottle

Commuting demands that your vehicle becomes a partial living space during the day, and being prepared is certainly convenient to reduce the stress that college produces. During the drive, luxurious features such as a phone charger and personal music are always nice. Also, I strongly recommend packing a lunch each morning, this helps financially and is much less expensive then the $8.00 chicken wrap at the local 7-eleven. Spare change is handy for tolls (if required) or campus vending machines, and I even found useful for making photo-copies at the university library that requires a fee. Class textbooks, again for studying. is nice to keep in the back seat so you won't have to carry the extra weight in your bag but is still accessible. Preparing a survival pack within you vehicle is a convenient way to keep personal items, that you can access during the day (similar to what a dorm room has). 

If you still have questions after reading this blog of what to bring or not bring with you, I will gladly leave feedback based on my personal experience!

The Decision.

Why? Why not?

Why should I commute? Why should I not commute? As the preparation for college began, these two simple questions circulated my thoughts day and night, seven days a week. The debate continued throughout the summer. Childish questions arose like; 

"Will I miss out on the Full College Experience?"

"How will I make friends?''

and of coarse...

"Can I really live with my parents much longer?" 

These questions will forever change the path in which my life will follow these next six years. 

Why?

Why should I commute?

I began to realize that the questions I was asking myself before where more of my wants then needs. I started to think of the bigger picture, my future. Instead of paying upwards of $14,000 a year for room and board, I could be paying $20 a week for gas and enjoy home cooked meals and a familiar bed. I would have a whole entire room too myself, where I could focus on my school work and rest in peace. There would be no need to wait in line for a shower, or even walk across a campus to get breakfast all before my 9am English class started. 

Why Not?

Why should I not commute?

As an 18 year old this was by far the easiest to justify. Did I really want my mom still doing my laundry. It is that time in my life to fall from the nest, and I would really prefer to do so. Although, other questions arose as well. Driving 30 minutes to be on time for a 9am class isn't very appealing, neither is spending an hour between classes walking around aimlessly. Living with my fellow classmates would spark friendships and maybe even relationships. I would have a better opportunity to immerse myself in campus activities, and have all the resources I need for school literally at my doorstep. 

The Decision.

As the time drew near to make a decision, and with a full blown venn diagram in the middle of my brain, I outsourced for a compromise. Luckily, at the University of New England, I was able to consider off-campus housing. Although it did come with a few hoops to jump through, and after a vast amount of appeals to the housing department, I was finally granted the privilege to reside in an off-campus apartment. Unfortunately, I will still face struggles in fulfilling the college experience by not dorming, but at least I will create my own college experience in the process.