Why I chose the commuter life: A student’s perspective on Brighton

Initially, when I first joined the University of Brighton, I decided not to commute and moved from my home county of Surrey to live in halls at Brighton. I made this decision because I wanted to experience university life on campus, stay where I was studying and have quick access to Brighton’s city centre. For my second and third year I decided to review my living arrangements and move back to Eastbourne, deciding to commute to uni instead.

Commuting as a student is about what’s right for you

Everyone will have different reasons for choosing to stay on campus or commute, but at the end of the day, you must do what’s right for you. There are many benefits to commuting to uni, and I will talk through some of them in this blog, I will also share some helpful commuter tips that I have learnt along the way!

Why I chose to commute to university 

I decided to commute to uni after a change in my personal circumstances meant living in Eastbourne was a better option for me. It made financial sense too, as I could now afford to live on my own due to Eastbourne being more affordable than the city. You can learn more about financial resources available to you on the university’s commuting guide for students.

I get to live somewhere quieter

like being close enough to Brighton to study and socialise, but I prefer living somewhere quieter and more homely – plus it’s still by the sea! I like having the balance of a busy study life in Brighton, but a cozy and quiet home life in Eastbourne, that way I feel I get the best of both worlds.

The location of where you choose to stay will make a big difference to your time at university, as well as your lifestyle preferences. If you are someone who prefers a busy, outgoing social life, then staying in the heart of Brighton might be right for you! But on the other hand, if you are like me and enjoy some variation (and home comforts!), staying slightly outside of Brighton is a great option.  

My commute to Uni 

It was important to me that I had options when commuting, for example, I drive but I also wanted to have good train links as well. I usually choose to drive which takes me about 40 mins (unless I have a 9am lecture, then I get caught in rush hour, so it takes me about an hour and a quarter!).

A good playlist really helps

I don’t mind this journey at all, as I choose a good playlist or podcast and use the time to get prepared for the day ahead (or to unwind on the way home). If you find this way of looking at the commuter life for a student then here’s another student balances commuting and university life in From Train Rides to Lecture Halls.

Finding parking

I then park on campus in the multi-story car park at Mouslecoomb campus using my E-Permit and head into class! I personally choose to drive over public transport as it feels more reliable and efficient, but if I’m tired or know traffic is going to be bad, then taking the train is a good alternative option for me. I also have a student railcard which saves me a third on travel, which is quite handy!  

My tips if you choose the commuter life as a student

 Get a good playlist or book

Trial the journey

Weigh up all the costs

Check for any allowances

Get a playlist

My biggest tip for commuting is to have a good playlist or podcast (books are also great if you are using public transport) as this helps the commute not feel as long.

Trial the journey

I would trial the journey when you don’t have classes, so if you are late it doesn’t matter, and then you can figure out timings etc. If you are driving, have a reliable traffic-checker, I use Apple Maps, but I’ve heard Waze is another good one, this will help to plan around traffic or accidents.

Weigh up the cost

I would also recommend weighing up the cost, time and efficiency of each option – for example, if I took the train everyday it would be more expensive than paying for petrol but taking the train occasionally to avoid rush hour would probably save me more time and money!

Check for allowances

If you are eligible for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) then I would highly recommend talking to the university about your commuting options. There is also ‘Brighton Boost’ which has a bursary for commuting students, so be sure to check that out on the website!  

Lastly, I would say make the most of on-campus time, even if you only have an hour seminar, go and do an hour in the library or book a Brighton Skills Hub tutorial to ensure you make the most of the journey. 

Final thoughts: why choosing to commute to uni in Brighton works for me

Commuting to Brighton works for me in so many ways, especially financially and for my lifestyle choice. So many students commute, much more than you’d think, so don’t worry about making friends or missing out on social events.

You can join communities and social events specifically for commuting students and you may even be able to find a buddy for the journey! Commuting is a great option for students, and it works incredibly well for me, best of luck!

Author: Abbie Kitson, Psychology with Counselling Studies BSc(hons), School of Humanities and Social Science