Commuting to Edge Hill
When applying for university, one of the most asked questions you’ll get is: ‘Are you living out or commuting?’ You’ve probably been asked about this multiple times already.
There is no right or wrong answer, but it’s important that you choose the decision that is most suitable for your circumstances. Is it easy for you to travel to campus? Are you close to nearby transport links? Do you drive? Have you checked travel times? Are you able to complete university work at home, for example, coursework and assignments, if you need to? (Don’t forget our library, Catalyst, is open 24/7 during term time).
Ways to get involved in our university community
If you’re considering commuting to Edge Hill, you may be wondering how you’ll build solid friendships with other students if you’re not on campus as much as those who live in our halls. Well, it’s good to know that you can still get involved with everything that we have to offer. And there are some exclusive commuter benefits too, like our Commuter Breakfasts.
Why not join a sports club or society? We have a whole host of communities so you’re sure to find something you’re interested in. If you can’t? You can start your own. This is the perfect way to meet like-minded individuals outside of your course. So you’ll see many familiar and friendly faces across campus. This is also your chance to start something new – maybe something you’ve never tried. Or you could pick up a new hobby, as well as the ones you already do.
Perks of commuting
There are benefits to both living on campus and commuting to university. But it’s down to your personal circumstances to decide which has the most benefits for you. Here are some advantages to commuting:
Less bills = more spare money
It’s common that commuting students tend to save more money throughout the university experience compared to those who live in on-campus accommodation. This is because you won’t have the added expense of university rent and bills (though for some of you, you’ll still be paying to live somewhere else). You may have to pay for public transport but it’s likely to be cheaper than a year of rent and additional bills. So that means you have more money for the fun stuff, like going out with friends, taking yourself to your local café or going on a shopping trip.
Use your commute time to your advantage
If you’re using public transport to get to us, you could use this time to prepare for your lectures. You could do some course reading. Plan or draft a section of an assignment. Listen to a podcast related to your studies. Or perhaps take the time to do something completely different to your studies. Like read your favourite book or listen to your favourite music. If you’re planning to spend the whole day studying, it can also be a good chance to wind down.
You may also find that you have some extra time between lectures. You can use this time to complete some extra reading, studying or using other services that are available to you on campus. Catch up with a coursemate at one of our many cafés and eateries. Book an appointment with a Careers Adviser to brush up your CV or for help finding a part-time job. Or take a walk around our trim trail, near to The Sports Centre.
Manage your work-life balance
By commuting, you can keep your university and home life more separate than those that live on campus. It gives you the space to take time away from your studies and give your mind a break. But you also have the choice to get some work done too, in a (sometimes) quieter environment.
More time to spend with friends, family and supporters
By commuting to university, you’re still able to keep your connections at home strong. This means you can have a nice mix of activities and can spend time with different people. And you can know that you’re not alone.
