A Graduate Student’s Guide to Commuting

As graduate students, we are constantly balancing a packed schedule; between coursework, jobs, self-care, time with friends and family, hobbies, and beyond, we have a lot going on! Adding a commute to that list can feel overwhelming, but once you settle into a routine, you might find that the commute is not only manageable, but a time you look forward to. Here are some of the tips and tricks I’ve learned as a 1-hour commuter student from Kingston, currently pursuing my Master of Social Work at UAlbany.

1. Enjoy the ride! 

• Call a friend or family member to catch-up, or schedule a weekly “phone date” for times you know you’ll be driving.
• Switch it up with different types of podcasts, playlists, and audiobooks.
• Make a fun drink before you leave each day to sip on while you drive. My go-to is a chai latte.
• Use a text-to-voice app to catch up on class readings (This may or may not be enjoyable, but at least you have a fun drink).
• Make your car more inviting. Add an air freshener, keep your car clean, or add a trinket that makes you smile. It makes a big difference when you’re spending a lot of time in your car.

2. A good commute starts with good prep! 

• Consider getting a library card and checking out their audiobook collection! 
• Download a variety of podcasts, playlists, or audiobooks ahead of time. You never know what mood you’ll be in on your drive, and if you have options ready-to-go, you can get on your way instead of spiraling down a “what to listen to today?” path in the parking lot. 
• Plan in extra time for your commute to avoid stress if there are unexpected delays. I usually build in at least 30 minutes of extra time (This means leaving about 1.5 hours before the start of my class), and then I use any extra time to do work or get organized before class. 
• Put together a car kit. Some of my essentials are tissues, wet-wipes, hand sanitizer, hair ties, lotion, cash, a phone charger, ibuprofen, a mini-first aid kit, and snacks. I also keep an ice scraper/snow brush and other car maintenance items handy. Add whatever you think would be most beneficial on a day you’re feeling frazzled.

3. Make the most of your time on campus!

• Find a study space to do work in! It makes the commute feel more worthwhile if you can get something checked off your list while you’re on campus. 
• If possible, try to schedule your classes in clusters to minimize the number of days you’re driving to campus, or take a mix of online and in-person classes.
• If you only have one class that day, plan other things to do in Albany. Go to a local restaurant or store, work on a group project, go to office-hours, attend UAlbany meet-ups or talks, or catch up with a friend.

Commuting isn’t always easy, but these habits have made it more manageable and enjoyable for me. With a little bit of planning, your commute can really be a time for you…take advantage of it!