Being a commuter at university gives you a unique experience. Some people get nervous about how it will feel to commute to university. I want to tell you about my experience and reassure you that it can be a great experience.

I chose to commute because I live close to the university and decided that I could save some money by living at home. You don’t have extra expenses such as paying for washing, food and rent when you live at home.

As I live near Farnborough, the commute for me usually takes me 20 minutes by train and the same time by car. In my first year of university, I was commuting by train. I have enjoyed it, as I got to enjoy the scenery of the countryside. When I was getting to Guildford, I had to walk for about 10 minutes to reach our campus. However, in my second year, I decided to start driving in. It is more convenient because I can park right on campus and the parking is not too expensive.

In my first year, I joined some societies where I found some of my friends. At first, I was nervous as everyone would be, but once you start talking to people it makes it easier. I have met so many amazing people and now in second year I keep meeting new people and finding new friends. At the start of the second year, I have decided to volunteer as a Freshers Angel, helping new people to move into new accommodation. There, I met one of my closest friends.

Sometimes I have about three hours in between my lectures, so I need to stay at the university. One of the most obvious places to go is the library, which I find very useful. However, sometimes you are tired and want to find somewhere more relaxing. I love going to the Hive and the Nest. During that time, I would also have some food. One of the most convenient options is the Co-op on campus. Sometimes I choose to bring a packed lunch with me. We have microwaves to heat the food up, which is convenient. When I am meeting up with my friends we also choose to go to Hillside, where they have a lot of hot food options such as fish and chips or mac and cheese bar. When the weather is good, I choose to sit outside by our famous lake. It is very beautiful there and very relaxing to watch ducks swim around.

As a first-year commuter, I wish I knew that it would all be okay. I would find friends and I would still get to enjoy it and have that university experience. Everyone is trying to make friends, and you will! During Freshers Week, the university has plenty of day-time activities which you can join and meet new people. Also, it is very important to remember it is okay to not find a group of friends straight away. As I mentioned, one of my closest friends I found in my second year. Everything will work out!

By Economics and Maths BSc student Polina who travels from Ash Vale.