by Tori Morrison

Created on: December 19, 2010   Last Updated: December 20, 2010

College should be one of the best times of your life, so don’t let living off-campus damage your chance to make new friends and try something new. Here are ten tips to help you fit in on campus, even if you commute.

1. Join an Organization

Being involved in an organization that interests you is the easiest way to bridge the gap between living off-campus and establishing a social life. An activities fair is usually held within the first few weeks of the school year, so contact your school’s student affairs office to find out when and where the fair will be. When you get to the fair, explore all your options and sign up for the organizations that interest you most. Just remember to leave enough time for school work!

2. Start a Study Group

Since you live off-campus, you don’t have access to the library 24 hours a day like those students who live in the dorms. To make sure you are staying on top of your studying, start a study group with some classmates from your courses. Set up a time to meet every week so that you are accountable for your work and will get it done. Not only will you finish your homework, but you can also build up some great friendships this way.

3. Use the Recreation Center

Several college campuses offer free memberships to the school’s recreation center when you are a student, so take advantage of the equipment and classes that are offered. By exercising, you are keeping your body and mind healthy so that you can be successful in school, and you can have fun while doing it. If sports are your thing, check out the intramural sports that are available and join a team. There are different sports and competitions offered during the school year, so ask for a schedule and join in the fun!

4. Get a Job

Since you are commuting, paying for gas and transportation may be a concern for you. In order to cover these expenses without taking out extra loans for school, consider getting a part-time job, or an on-campus work study position. Not only will you be earning some extra cash, but you will also be gaining real world experience which is extremely valuable when you are looking for an entry-level position after your education is completed.

5. Schedule Your Classes Close Together

Instead of driving back and forth between classes or waiting for hours for the next class to start, try scheduling your classes next to each other. Commuter students can save time and money by doing this, which leaves room for a part-time job and provides

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