Even if your child is planning to live at home and commute to a local college, he or she should still plan a college visit. You may feel that your child knows the school because your family lives nearby, but the student perspective of campus is completely different from that of a community resident. Remember that if your child goes away to school and lives in off-campus student housing, he or she is considered a commuter student.
Here are Ten Questions Commuter Students Should Ask on a College Visit.
- Is there an office of commuter services and/or a commuter student adviser? What services do they provide?
- Are there lounges for commuters? Where do commuter students study and hang out between classes?
- How do commuters get involved in campus student life? Are there programs and events specifically for commuter students?
- In emergencies, can commuters spend the night in the dorms?
- Is there a meal plan available for commuter students? How much does it cost, and how does it work?
- What is parking like on campus? What are the fees?
- How do I find out about public transportation? Are there any public transportation discounts for commuters?
- What percentage of the student body commutes? Do most commuters live at home or in off-campus housing?
- How do I find out about class cancellations due to bad weather?
- How well do commuter and resident students get along with each other?