Marist College: Life of a Commuter

5 min readMar 20, 2024

Introduction

Since freshman year, I lived on campus at Marist College — a somewhat ironic twist as I now share insights into the commuter experience.

Despite being a resident on campus, I’ve also forged connections with numerous fellow commuters. As you embark on your college journey, remember that this commuter lounge will be your home for the next four years.

Just like dorms have Resident Assistants and Resident Directors, commuters are supported by the Commuter Student Council, led by Colin McCann, who serves as a mentor for commuter students.

In this post, I will delve into the intricate facets of life as a Marist College commuter.

The Commuter Lounge as a Shared Hub

Despite the commuter lounge being a “commuter lounge”, it’s not really a “commuter lounge”.

The space caters to a variety of clubs, including sororities, making it a vibrant hub for meeting new people. Typically, club events take place in the evenings, starting from 5:00 PM and extending beyond. However, during the day, commuters often gather to socialize.

I cherish the moments spent in the commuter lounge, fooling around between classes. We had a blast playing Smash Bros, watching Borat on the television, practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, going over lecture materials, and even having impromptu sleepovers.

However, if your aim is to focus and be productive, the library is the commuter’s best bet.

No Lockers, Kitchen, and Fridge

College is a space for self-discovery and exploration. However, for commuters, the reality is that they lack access to amenities like refrigerators, cooking facilities, lockers, etc.

This means that the food they bring must suffice for the entire day and the stuff you bring you will have to carry the entire day. Nevertheless, there are solutions available.

Store belongings in your car, although parking lots are often inconveniently situated.
Consider traveling light.
Forge friendships with on-campus peers who can help.
Embracing the opportunity to develop sturdy back and leg muscles.

One tip is join the Student Government Association to take advantage of theri refrigerators, coffee makers, and microwave.

Strategic Parking

Avoid the frustration of parking on one side of campus only to realize you’re on the opposite end by day’s end. College parking presents a perennial challenge, exacerbated particularly after 5:00 PM when parking becomes unrestricted. Anticipate your daily movements and strategically choose parking spots accordingly to minimize inconvenience.

My best tip is that parking quickly fills in the morning, so get to campus early if you want to pick a decent spot.

The Quest for Free Food

Like any other college student, you will scour the campus for free food.

The Commuter Student Council holds many events, such as 4th of July Barbeques, Halloween Events, Valentines Events, St. Patricks Events, Super Bowl Events, and more!

My advice? Cast your net wide by joining numerous clubs. These vibrant communities often host gatherings adorned with complimentary delicacies.

Craving a taste of culture? Seek out clubs like: Asian Allianc, e African Student Association (ASA), Hispanic/Latino Club, Marist International Students Association (MISA), etc.

In addition to enjoying the complimentary on-campus dining options, it’s wise to keep some Meal Swipes or Thrifty Cash on hand as a safety net. However, be mindful not to be too frugal, as you might find yourself with an excess of Meal Swipes and Thrifty Cash by the semester’s end. At that juncture, consider sharing your abundance with fellow students — it’s a surefire way to gain popularity.

Navigating Access to the Dining Hall

To access the bathrooms in the dining hall, you need to step out of the hall so the cashier can “recognize your face.” Depending on your principles, you might exploit this system of trust occasionally to slip into the dining hall for free.

The opportune moment to sneak in is during shift changes when the cashier isn’t actively monitoring the entrance. Alternatively, especially around Thanksgiving, a simple request might grant you free access to the dining hall.

While there are surveillance cameras, I haven’t heard of anyone facing consequences for this. Interpret that information as you see fit.

Navigating Access and Policies for Freshman Dorms

Navigating access to freshman dorms can be tricky even for commuters who have made friends on campus. Despite your affiliation, you’re considered a visitor in underclassmen dorms.

It’s important to note that after a certain late-night hour, access for visitors is restricted, so ensure you’re inside the dorm beforehand if you plan on late-night activities.

If you are on the first floor, the windows can easily be removed without raising alarm. Interpret that information as you see fit.

Partying

Don’t drink and drive

If you intend to engage in partying and drinking, it’s crucial to arrange for accommodation beforehand. Parties are typically hosted either at Fox Run, off-campus Greek housing, or in upper-class housing areas. The party’s at Fox-Run are some of the best.

Planning for a place to stay ensures your safety and prevents potential issues with transportation or finding accommodations late at night. Whether it’s arranging a designated driver, securing a spot to crash, or making arrangements in advance, having a plan in place contributes to a smoother and safer party experience.

Conclusion

Being a commuter at Marist College offers a truly distinctive experience. I urge you to seize every opportunity to connect with others and explore all corners of the campus.

From discovering the vibrant social scene at the commuter lounge to mastering strategic parking tactics, this article has delved into crucial aspects such as accessing amenities, seeking out free food, and understanding dorm policies.

With valuable insights on partying responsibly and securing accommodations, this overview aims to empower every commuter to make the most of their college journey.

As we conclude, here’s one final image to inspire your journey: