Commuter Corner

Living On Campus vs. Commuting

By Ashlea Perkins

I often wonder whether or not my college experience would've been different had I lived on campus. Would I have been more socially involved? Would my GPA be higher? Or would I have more school pride?  The questions may sound silly, however I know I'm not the only commuter who has battled with these thoughts. Maybe if I had stayed on campus I would have attended basketball or football games. It wouldn't have been a problem to roll out of bed and walk across the yard to the events. In my case I was too tired and didn't want to battle with traffic from D.C. back to Bowie for an event. Studies have shown that students who live on campus their freshman year have higher GPA. I do realize this isn't in every case but it is in most cases. Also when you're surrounded around students and your campus you have a greater appreciation --- not to say commuters don't value and love Bowie State University --- but many commuter students have a plethora of other obligations outside of school that sometimes leave the campus life at the bottom of the list.

 After I've brainstormed and beaten up myself for not choosing to stay on campus, I think of  all the pros of commuting and not living on campus. For instance, I've heard many horror stories from roommates who steal to unwanted overnight guests to small common areas, etc. and I couldn't imagine having to share a shower with women I don't know. The joys of living at home are mama's home-cooked meals daily, our own bathroom/bedroom and, if you're like me,  not having to pay for your own groceries and worrying about someone eating them (besides my little bro). Although it really doesn't matter, now that I'm a graduating senior, but commuting isn't that bad and I believe I made the right choice by staying home.