How commuting shaped my life as a student

Being a commuting student has been a unique and transformative part of my university journey. Traveling to the University of Brighton Falmer campus 4-days a week from Eastbourne has shaped my perspective on balancing academics, work, and personal growth while navigating the challenges and opportunities of living off-campus. My experience has taught me resilience, being on time, and how to make the most of every moment, whether on the train or in a lecture hall. This is my story of life as a commuting student and how it has shaped my university experience 

Why I chose to commute to university

I decided to commute to university for several reasons; first and foremost, I found commuting to be a more cost-effective option, allowing me to better manage my budget while studying. Saving significantly on accommodation costs was an essential factor in managing my finances as a student. 

The university’s location and accessibility also made commuting a convenient choice for me. With strong and reliable transport links, I could easily travel to campus while still enjoying the comfort and stability of living in a familiar environment. This setup also supported my preference for a quieter, more independent lifestyle. 

Additionally, the support offered by the university for commuting students, such as designated spaces for studying between lectures and resources for time management, made the decision even more practical. 

Overall, commuting is a choice that suits both my academic and personal goals, enabling me to thrive in my studies while maintaining a balanced and sustainable lifestyle. 

My commute to university

typical day of commuting usually starts early but the time I start getting ready depends on the lecture timings from day-to-day. I usually wake up around 6:30am if I have a 9am lecture to ensure I have enough time to get ready and prepare for the day ahead. I travel to university using the train as they are fast and have a direct rail service to Brighton, which I’ve found to be the most practical and efficient option given my circumstances as a university student. 

During the commute, I often use the time productively, whether it’s reviewing lecture notes, listening to podcasts related to my studies, or simply relaxing to mentally prepare for the day. Once I reach campus, I make sure to organise my schedule to maximise the time I spend there. I plan my classes, study sessions, and extracurricular activities carefully to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth trips. 

How Commuting Impacts My Day 

Commuting has taught me the importance of time management and preparation. I need to pack everything I’ll need for the day, from study materials to meals, because going back home isn’t always convenient. While it adds travel time to my day, commuting also gives me moments of solitude to reflect, organise my thoughts, or simply unwind. 

Being a commuter has also encouraged me to take advantage of the university’s facilities, such as the study spaces and social areas, to make the most of my time on campus. Although it requires more planning and adaptability, I’ve come to appreciate the balance it offers between campus life and my personal space. 

My commuting tips

After a lot of experience, I’ve come to realise that commuting to university isn’t that difficult, it can be manageable and rewarding with the right preparation. 

Start by checking your route before term begins to understand travel times and avoid surprises. If you’re using the train, consider cost-saving options like a 16-25 Railcard, which offers a 1/3 discount, and the Unizone rail ticket for unlimited discounted travel in your university area. Planning your day is essential, leave early to avoid delays and make the most of your commute by listening to audiobooks, reviewing notes, or relaxing.  

Socialising as a commuter can require extra effort, but joining societies, attending various events, and staying on campus after classes are great ways to meet people. Additionally, commuter-specific social media groups can help you connect with peers and share experience. With careful planning, you can balance academics, social life, and the unique benefits commuting offers. 

Final thoughts: why commuting to Brighton works for me

Commuting to Brighton has been a practical and fulfilling choice that perfectly suits my circumstances and lifestyle. It has allowed me to balance my studies with financial sustainability while maintaining a sense of independence. The excellent transport links and the flexibility of options like the Unizone rail ticket make traveling to campus convenient and cost-effective. 

What makes commuting truly work for me is the ability to maximise my time on campus, whether through academics or socialising, while also enjoying the benefits of living off-campus. It has taught me valuable skills in time management, organisation, and adaptability. 

For anyone considering commuting, I’d say embrace the journey, it’s an opportunity to shape your university experience in a way that works best for you. 

Author: Ketan Srivastva, Physical Education BA, School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences