Self-Help Materials:  Commuter Students

The majority of enrolled students at Potomac State College are commuter students.  These individuals live off campus for a great variety of reasons.  Many hold jobs and balance a demanding schedule of responsibilities such as school, work, family, and travel.  Your time on campus is limited and often returning to campus is difficult or expensive.  However, you are an important part of the student body. 

Most research on college success indicates that students who become involved early in their college career are more likely to graduate.  It may be more difficult for you to fully participate in extracurricular events but it is highly recommended that you make every attempt to do so frequently.  Make a regular effort to be aware of all campus activities and services.  Participate in on-campus social programs and clubs/organizations.  This allows you to meet people from diverse backgrounds and cultures that you may not have had the opportunity to meet otherwise.  Attend workshops on time management, study skills, and other relevant topics.  Interact with your instructors outside the classroom.  Check the college newspaper or bulletin boards for information about various events such as movies, theatrical performances, or dances on campus.

If you are driving, take a test run at different times of the day to see how long your transportation time will be.  Include extra time to find a parking space and walk to class.  Know general automobile maintenance and safety considerations:

• Use your car manual, have tune-ups on a regular basis, perform daily checks on tires, oil, water, and lights.
• Lock doors, park in well-lit areas, and keep valuables locked in the trunk.
• Watch local weather conditions and listen for delays and cancellations.
• Keep emergency items in your car.
• When returning to your car, have your keys in hand, and get into your vehicle quickly.
• The campus police will provide escort services upon request.  They also regularly provide self-defense classes.  Contact campus police for additional travel and safety suggestions.

It is recommended that you study between classes.  There are several options besides the library or Academic Success Center.  Be creative!

When you have free time on campus and you choose not to study, you might want to consider some other options.  The Student Union has a variety of leisure activities available to use at your convenience.  Get a campus mailbox and check it daily!  A computer lab is an ideal place to study and write papers or to search the net or retrieve email between classes.  You may want to consider using your identification card to purchase a meal plan on campus for convenient meals.

Now, a special set of tips for students who are living at home with their parents.  Of course, the biggest advantage is the financial savings.  However, there are some disadvantages:  lack of freedom, inability to learn how to live independently, and risking not having a true connection with your college.  (The choice is yours!)

Living at home while going to college can create situations that neither you or your parents have faced before!  Here are some tips to prevent problems and have a positive experience:

• Discuss financial concerns such as paying for gas, food, books, tuition, and perhaps rent.
• Make sure your parents know your schedule and that you know their schedule, including special events that may cause conflict.
• Consider your use of the telephone, internet, and computer, all essential tools for a college student.
• Know what behaviors your parents expect while you are living at home (chores, curfews).  However, parents should be clear about the amount of time required to be a good college student.  Excessive family responsibilities such as missing classes to babysit a younger sibling are not in your best interest.

Keep the lines of communication open.  Use good expressive and receptive communication skills.

If you need further information, please contact Psychological Counseling Services at (304) 788-6976, email at SEKephart@mail.wvu.edu, or simply stop by the office located on the base floor of the Health Center.