A student’s personal demands, the campus environment, and their financial condition all play a role in the important decision of whether or not to bring a car to college. Although having a car while in college can be convenient and independent, there are some obligations and some drawbacks.
The independence that comes with driving a car to college is one of its main benefits. It makes it easier for students to get an internship or to their job, to run errands and to return home during a vacation or break. Large campuses and those in suburban or countryside areas with no access to public transportation can benefit greatly from having a car. A car can greatly simplify daily life in such situations.
Yet, having a car while in college also presents a number of difficulties, particularly on city campuses, parking can be costly and difficult to find. On campus parking permits are expensive and often hard to come by at a number of colleges. For students who are already juggling tuition, books, and other expenses, the added costs of fuel, maintenance, insurance and repairs can add up quickly.
Environmental issues should also be taken into account. In addition to providing dependable public transportation like public bikes and walking trails, college campuses frequently encourage sustainability. Using these alternatives can help students save money, feel less stressed and reduce pollution.
In general, a student’s particular needs and the campus community should determine whether or not they should bring a car to college. However, having a car could be more of a burden than a benefit for people who live on a campus that is walkable and has sufficient transportation options.
Overall, owning a car while attending college can be convenient, but it’s not always the best option. Before choosing, students should consider their lifestyle, the prices and the resources available on campus before making tough decisions.
