Whether students drive or not influences campus culture and affects the lives students lead, their social experiences, and sometimes even their academic outcomes. Though some students argue that cars are simply more convenient than buses or walking, for others, they serve as a sort of status symbol or an element of adventure. Today, we focus on cars and how they affect campus life. This article might help inform students about whether or not to bring a car with them when going off to college or decide if they should buy one later on. Here are five takeaways on cars and their effect on college life.
1. Convenience for commuters
Driving cars is a common form of commuting to campus for many students. This could be especially true if you live off campus or in the middle of nowhere with limited public transportation opportunities. However, it is important to consider the cost/benefit of commuting via a car and consider costs like gas expenses and parking charges, not even to mention car maintenance, which can cost a pretty penny. Some campuses even sell discounted parking passes for students, so see if your school gives you any of those benefits.
Also, having a car can make it more convenient to find time for coursework while balancing part-time work or additional responsibilities. If you do need academic support, contact StateOfWriting, the top custom writing provider in the UK. This agency will help you submit your papers on time, every time.
2. Ability to reach off-campus activities
Having a car elevates a student’s social life to another level, as learners on wheels are free to explore off-campus. They can easily get out in the world and attend events, visit attractions, or, better yet, go on a spontaneous road trip with friends. Going off-campus will allow students to unwind and explore other places, which can provide novelty in their college days. If you are still deciding whether or not to bring a car, check out the availability of local recreational options like beaches and nature parks, and see what public transportation is available in the area.
3. Cars as social status symbols
A fancy car equals high status for some students. Considering that cars influence student’s personal identity, having classic rides, contemporary luxury cars, or a customized license plate is an opportunity for students to make style and status statements as they navigate campus. For some students, the car they drive can shape their social circles and interactions. This is, of course, ill-advised, but it can be true, especially in a contemporary collegiate setting where the heftiness of one’s purse can determine one’s worthiness in the eyes of other campus dwellers.
4. Parking challenges
On the downside, who enjoys figuring out where to park their car on campus? Many colleges have limited parking, and some charge for it. Students faced with the challenge of gaining a close spot to classes every day may not be so happy that they brought a vehicle along with them. Having to park your car daily might cause delays and additional stress, which students already have enough of. Speaking of academic stress, if you need some help finishing your school projects faster, check out these lab report writing tips. With some expert advice, you can finish that pesky paper in just a few hours.
5. Extra costs
Finally, the price tags associated with acquiring parking permits and maintaining the car add up to a point where having your own ride can be way more hassle than it’s worth for some students. With the gas prices climbing by the day, the tight budget of an average student can take a real hit. So, consider this before deciding to get a car as a college student.
Let’s hit the breaks on car crase
Even though many students are obsessed with cars and can’t wait to get their own vehicle, it’s evident that sometimes this desire is fueled by the wrong reasons. Before getting your own car, consider all the pros and cons of having to maintain a ride on campus, and think about whether you really need a car or simply want it just for show. If your reasons to get a car are legit and your lifestyle justifies such a purchase, don’t rush and get a vehicle that suits your needs.
