Every minute counts when you’re a commuter student, and women often have to deal with more than men do. Every day is a test of endurance that few people see, as they have to deal with a lot of different things, stay safe on the road, and deal with being tired.
Studies show that people who have longer commutes tend to be more stressed and have less energy during the day. Women who have to take care of their families or their homes may feel like they are constantly torn between their responsibilities and their own needs.
If you have to carry books, work clothes, or supplies with you all day, you won’t be able to leave them in a locker on campus. Not only is it annoying, it can also hurt your body after a long day. Commuters can feel like they’re living out of a backpack if they don’t have a place to change clothes, rest, or even store their lunch bag.
How These Challenges Hurt Mental Health
These problems seem invisible until they build up:
- More stress and worry: Constantly figuring out when the bus will arrive, rushing to class, or worrying about getting home safely can cause long-term stress. Every day feels like “survival mode.”
- Problems with sleep: Your body never gets a chance to reset when you get home late and wake up early. Not getting enough sleep can make it harder to do your best by making it harder to focus, feel good, and even keep your immune system healthy.
Commuter students often come to school tired and leave quickly, missing out on casual conversations and campus events where friendships can grow. A lot of people say they feel invisible, even when they’re with other people. This loneliness can slowly take away your motivation and joy in learning.
Things Women Who Commute Can Do
There are small things you can do to make your day easier:
- Smart packing: If you can get digital copies of your books, leave the heavier ones at home and bring a “day bag” with snacks, a charger, hygiene items, and water.
- Use a tote on wheels: This eases the strain on your back and can speed up walking.
- Make small rituals: You can center your mind by writing in a journal for a few minutes, listening to a podcast on the way to work, or praying quietly.
- Take breaks when you can: Even short breaks are important. On the bus, listen to relaxing music; in your car, stretch; or walk between classes.
- Make connections: Talk to classmates, mentors, or professors who understand what you’re going through. Connection makes people less stressed and more connected.
- Walk safely: Be mindful about safety when walking. (link to https://womendeservebetter.com/tips-to-walk-more-everyday)
When we address these challenges, we don’t just make college easier; we also make it more fair. That means that every woman can learn, grow, and lead, no matter how long her commute is.
By Elizabeth Troyer
References
- “Mental health and lifestyle health behaviors among commuter college students” – Pinto, Marinilli & Mercedes. Cogent Mental Health (2024). Read here (Taylor & Francis Online)
- “Impact of commuting on mental well-being: Using time … ” – Zhang et al. (2024). ScienceDirect (ScienceDirect)
