By Irmina Chrzastek

Being a commuter student from Jersey City to Teachers College can be an exciting and challenging experience. It’s an excellent opportunity to pursue higher education and further my career but it requires a great deal of dedication and commitment to managing time and resources effectively.

One of the most significant commuting challenges is the time and energy it takes to travel back and forth between Jersey City and Manhattan. I have to factor in the extra time it takes to navigate the congested streets and subways of New York City, which can add up!

Another challenge is finding a balance between schoolwork and personal life. Commuter students often have to juggle their academic responsibilities with work, family, and social obligations. It’s essential to create a routine that allows you to manage your time effectively and prioritize your tasks. I have found that my commute is a great time to catch up on my reading—I have read six books while commuting this year alone! I also use Google calendar to help balance everything.

My first semester of commuting was the most challenging, but once I got it down, it was no big deal! If possible, plan your commute so you are heading to campus around 9 AM and leaving around 5 PM. Although these are during rush hour and public transportation will be busy, it usually guarantees the fastest travel times!

Being a commuter student to Teacher’s College gets easier with proper planning, organization, and dedication!