Sheneika’s story: my experience as a commuting university student

This content mentions loneliness or isolation, which some people may find triggering.

Sheneika lived at home while she completed her degree. This came with difficulties when trying to be part of the wider university community. Here are her tips on how to cope as a commuting student.  

These are the steps I took to integrate myself in university life:

• Locate a commuter group chat/ service. This can help you be part of a community with people in your situation, stay up to date with travel issues such as strikes, traffic and diversions as well as find friends from a variety of backgrounds. You’ll make friends in the most unlikely of ways. If you’re educational setting doesn’t have a service, you could create a group chat!
• Use breaks wisely. Use the time between lectures, seminars and workshops to socialise with other students and explore campus facilities.
• Be flexible with the days you can stay later on campus. Plan as many activities for that day as possible to feel more connected. Wednesdays or Thursdays are usually ‘uni nights’ where most activities happen.
• Engage with faculty. Attend your lecturer's office hours and establish relationships with your professors. This can lead to valuable academic guidance and potential research or internship opportunities.
• Attend events. There are so many ways to get involved! Workshops, campus events, daytime society and sport events, clubs, organisations and student groups. Guest lectures, campus events and workshops can be a great way to engage with other students and build a sense of community. There's always something happening on a university campus!

If you find yourself struggling with your mental health at university, the best advice we can give is to tell someone.