Packing lists, campus job postings, evening campus events—there are plenty of resources like these that are tailored for on-campus residents. And if you are a commuter, you may be worried about feeling a little neglected because, let’s be real, colleges often prioritize their on-campus residents.
One of the biggest fears and obstacles commuters face is building community. While campus events, athletic events, and clubs and organizations are advertised as opportunities for all, it’s can be hard to feel truly welcome—especially if you have to put yourself out there and show up without a personal invitation.
While finding community might be a little harder for commuters, it is readily available to you if you want it. These are our best tips for building relationships as a commuter.
Just Show Up!
This is the easiest but also the hardest part. If you’re only on campus for just enough time to attend class, it is much more difficult to connect with other students. Give people a chance to recognize you. Don’t overschedule yourself so that you always have to rush out the door after class. Do your homework in the library. Buy a coffee from The Highlands and drink it there (bonus points if you sit next to someone you recognize and start a conversation!).
You should also give yourself the chance to take advantage of the events colleges put on. For building friendships and community, these events are a college commuter essential. They are a space to make friends, find new interests, and just have a fun break in the midst of a long week of studying. At Cairn, we regularly put on events big and small. If you want to ease yourself into a quiet atmosphere, make a fancy soda at a paint n’ sip. If you are looking to blend in with a crowd at first, consider mingling at the hoedown. These events are open to all, and they are worth staying on campus for.
Get Connected on The Right Platforms
Engaging with campus life and community means plugging in. A great way to stay informed, see some faces, and get an idea of the campus culture is to follow the university on social media and other university-based platforms. These are not ends to community in themselves, but they provide regular reminders of what’s happening on campus and invite you to experience real, in-person community.
Join a Club
Student clubs and organizations give you the opportunity to spend time with other students who have similar interests. Cairn University has over 20 clubs and organizations to choose from, in addition to DIII athletics, intramural sports, and music ensembles.
Eat in the Cafeteria
Just in case you have any hesitation, know you are welcome in the cafeteria without a meal plan. Bring your packed lunch or pay the commuter rate for a one-time meal. Sharing a meal with your fellow students is 10x better than a sad car lunch!
Contribute Your Local Knowledge
This isn’t a college town—it’s your town. You know which grocery store offers the cheapest produce, which train will take you into the city, where to catch the best sunset view, and what coffee shop has the best place to study. Resident students will figure these things out eventually, but you can use this information as an invitation: Invite a friend to join you off-campus at one of your favorite spots.
Commit to Being a Part of Community
This is the hard truth: You have to work to be included. While a resident student can retreat to their dorm room and is bound to later connect with a roommate or other students at dinner in the cafeteria, no one is going to show up in your childhood bedroom and ask you if you want to go outside and throw a frisbee.
While it does take intentionality to build community outside of the classroom, it is effort that you will not regret putting out. Commuter or resident, college friendships are some of the best relationships you’ll have the chance to make in your lifetime. Don’t miss your opportunity!
