Being a commuter student has given my university days a rhythm that feels both familiar and
refreshing. My mornings usually begin with everything packed and ready to go. I make lunch with the time I have before leaving the house and make sure to pack plenty of snacks, which has become essential over time. After that, I walk around fifteen minutes to Reading train station and start my
commute.
During the journey, I like to ease into the day. I spend some time chilling, writing a quick to-do list, and listening to music that gets me in the right mindset for what’s ahead. Once I arrive, I walk to campus and head to my lectures and seminars. In between classes, I usually find friends to catch up with and try to get some work done, as I’ve learned that studying at home rarely works for me. If there are any societies or events happening that interest me, I’ll check those out and decide whether to stay or head back home on the earliest train. Once I’m back, the evening is spent showering, having a big dinner, and relaxing. Most nights end with conversations with my parents, which is one of the comforts of commuting.
How I Make My Commute Productive
My commute is relatively short, so I use it less for heavy studying and more for mental preparation. In the mornings, I run through a checklist of what needs to be done and picture myself moving between different parts of campus throughout the day. It helps me feel organised before I even arrive. On the way home, I usually reflect on what still needs to be done once I’m back. If I’m feeling productive, I’ll do some personal reading, but sometimes the journey is simply a moment to decompress and transition out of university mode.
Budgeting as a Commuter Student
At the start of every term, I review the amount I receive from Student Finance England and calculate my commuting costs. I work out the price of a return ticket and multiply it by the number of days I expect to be on campus, usually rounding up to be safe. I also factor in food, as there are days when you’re on campus for longer than expected or need extra snacks. Any additional expenses are covered by my part-time job, which helps keep everything balanced.
Best Study Spots on Campus for Commuters
One of my favourite places to study is the Hillside coffee shop, which has a relaxed atmosphere that makes working feel less overwhelming. Studying in friends’ accommodation can also be a nice change from the busy campus environment. Occasionally, if teaching block classrooms are empty, I’ll stay there to work and sometimes get lucky enough to hear someone playing the piano, which makes studying surprisingly enjoyable.
How to Make Friends as a Commuter Student
I’ve found that talking to people on my course is the easiest way to make friends, as you often share similar schedules and assignments. These conversations naturally lead to discussing societies and events. I’ve also made friends simply by asking people I see often whether they commute too. Commuter life can feel lonely at times, so recognising familiar faces and building those connections really helps make campus feel more like home.
My Top Tips for Balancing Home Life and Uni Life
University life and home life feel very different to me, so I mentally separate them. I treat them almost like alternate spaces and shift my mindset depending on where I am. At home, I have a designated corner of my room for all my university essentials, which helps keep things organised and prevents work from taking over my entire space.
My Favourite Places to Eat, Study or Relax Between Classes
Between classes, I often spend time in the library, which is a reliable place to focus. The sensory room in the Dot is another favourite spot when I need a quieter, more calming environment.
What I Wish I Knew as a First-Year Commuter
If there’s one thing I wish I’d known earlier, it’s how many snacks I would actually need. Long days on campus definitely require more preparation than I expected.
Hidden Gems Near Campus for Commuters
A hidden gem near campus is the newly opened Waterstones, which has three floors and a café. It’s a lovely place to study or relax and feels like a peaceful break from campus.
Why I Chose to Commute and Why It Works for Me
I chose to commute mainly for financial reasons. I lived on campus in my first year and made close friends, so commuting in my second year felt like a natural next step, especially since I live so nearby. Having experienced both sides of university life, commuting allows me to enjoy the best of both worlds while still feeling connected to campus.
By Law and International Relations student Xiao who travels from Reading.
