Developing a campus experience is an integral part of a commuter student’s college journey.

Commuters have just as many opportunities to fulfill that while still being able to go back to their own home afterward. Here are three tips for commuter students to help them start their year off right. 

Step 1: Get to know the campus

If this is your first semester at Shippensburg University, the first thing you should do is familiarize yourself with the commuter parking lots around campus. Drivers need to be aware of any parking restrictions based on seniority. If you arrive early enough, there are plenty of spots close to the academic buildings. 

If you are not sure if you are allowed to park in a particular lot, ask the SU Police. SUPD also offers parking maps that you can keep in your glove compartment for reference.

You should also familiarize yourself with the overall campus layout to avoid confusion. This will help you get to your classes faster and discover more of the campus.

There are maps pretty much everywhere but it might be easier to walk around campus yourself to visualize where the buildings are located. Exploring campus is also a great way to uncover many great study spots.

Commuters also have a space of their very own on the third floor of the Ceddia Union Building (CUB). This lounge features eight computers, a printer and plenty of places to sit and relax.

This space is reserved especially for commuters and requires a passcode.

For passcode access, contact Kurt Dunkel, program coordinator of Connection AOD and Commuter Support Services.

Step 2: Get involved with a club or program

Ship boasts more than 150 clubs and organizations, from animal alliances to ultimate frisbee. There is a club for just about everything but if you do not find one that piques your interest, you can always start one of your own. 

To find all of the clubs (or start your own) go to the CampusGroups website and sign-in with your normal Ship login information. Clubs are one of the best ways to fully emerge yourself into the campus community as well as gain valuable experience in volunteer work. 

Remember, the great opportunities found at SU, from student media organizations to student government, are not limited to on-campus students.

Double check to make sure your activities fit with your classes.

Step 3: Take advantage of SU’s Resources

When you commute to campus, the first few weeks can be overwhelming as you try to navigate your way through this new environment. Do not be afraid to reach out to the staff for any support or additional resources. These resources are paid for by your various fees so take advantage of them. 

SU has the Women’s, Pride and Counseling Centers, veteran services and much more, which can be found on the school website. 

Although some of these resources have gone virtual for the fall semester due to COVID-19 coronavirus, they still exist, so do not be afraid to make use of them.  

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