Rutgers New Brunswick: Commuter-Friendly?

Rutgers University in New Brunswick has a large population of commuting students, with 17,663 undergraduates commuting to the New Brunswick Campus, representing more than 56% of the undergraduate population. The university provides various resources and support for commuters, including parking permits, commuter lounges, meal plans, and student organisations specifically for commuters. However, some students express concerns about the challenges of connecting with others and the potential impact on their social life. The decision to commute depends on various factors, including financial considerations, convenience, and the desire to live on campus or experience real life outside of the campus environment.

Rutgers University–New Brunswick has a large commuter population

Commuter students at Rutgers University–New Brunswick have access to dedicated lounges, kitchens, lockers, and parking. The Off-Campus Students' Association (OCSA) provides a social and support network for students not living in university housing, and the Commuter Activities Board plans social events and programs specifically for non-resident students.

The university also offers advice and assistance with parking and transportation, including a parking pass system, information on parking locations, and discounts on public transportation.

The large commuter population at Rutgers University–New Brunswick reflects a broader trend of increasing commuter student populations, influenced by economic factors and the desire to save money by living at home or off-campus. This shift has led the university to implement additional resources and support for commuters, such as the installation of lockers and the expansion of the OCSA lounge.

Despite the challenges, many commuter students at Rutgers University–New Brunswick have found ways to get involved on campus, form social connections, and take advantage of the benefits of commuting, such as cost savings and increased independence.

There are resources for commuters, including parking and transportation services

Rutgers University in New Brunswick offers a range of resources for commuters, including parking and transportation services. The Department of Transportation Services (DOTS) is dedicated to providing efficient and accessible transportation options for commuters.

Parking Options

Commuters can purchase parking permits in mid-August, allowing them to park in assigned lots across the five campuses. The Rutgers University Department of Transportation Services uses license plate recognition technology to confirm that vehicles are registered and authorised to park in specific lots. Students can register multiple cars under their permit. It is important to note that parking is zone-specific, and parking in unauthorised lots may result in tickets and late fees.

Transportation Services

The university offers a variety of transportation options to, from, and within its campuses. This includes campus transit and shuttle services, walking and bike paths, and public transportation services.

Bicycle Rental Program

Rutgers University provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly bicycle rental program for all students on all five campuses. Students can register and rent bicycles for $10 per month or $25 per semester.

Public Transportation Options

For those commuting via public transportation, there are several options available:

• New Jersey Transit's Northeast Corridor line provides local and express service between Penn Station in New York, Newark, and Trenton, New Jersey.
• SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) offers service between Trenton and Philadelphia.
• Amtrak provides limited direct service to New Brunswick, with connections available via New Jersey Transit trains.
• Public Buses (NJ Transit) offer several routes serving New Brunswick and the surrounding areas.

Student Discounts

NJ Transit offers a 25% discount on monthly rail, bus, or light rail passes for full-time undergraduate and graduate students who purchase their passes online.

Additional Commuter Resources

In addition to parking and transportation services, Rutgers University also provides other resources for commuters:

• Commuter lounges: Rutgers offers lounges specifically for commuters, providing spaces to relax, study, and connect with other commuters.
• Commuter lockers: Free lockers are available for commuters to store their belongings on campus.
• Meal plans: Rutgers offers additional meal plans tailored to commuter and off-campus students, providing flexibility and convenience.

Commuters can join the Off-Campus Students' Association (OCSA) to connect with peers

Rutgers University in New Brunswick has a large commuter population, with 17,663 undergraduate students commuting to the campus, representing more than 56% of the undergraduate population. With such a large number of students commuting, there are many opportunities for commuters to connect with peers and get involved on campus. One way to do this is by joining the Off-Campus Students Association (OCSA), now known as the Rutgers Commuter Student Association (RCSA).

The RCSA is an inclusive volunteer student organisation that serves the needs and interests of commuter students while building a community on campus. The RCSA promotes the integration of commuter students into the larger Rutgers population through programming and advocacy with other student organisations, committees, and departments. The RCSA offers a variety of events and activities for commuters to get involved and connect with peers. For example, the RCSA hosts a weekly listserv that informs commuters about upcoming activities, such as a monthly happy hour with themes like Harry Potter and Halloween masquerade, and other social events like a trip to Six Flags and ice skating.

The RCSA also has physical spaces on campus for commuters to connect and hang out, such as the RCSA lounge, which has comfortable seating, couches, and love seats, providing a welcoming place for students not living in university housing. The RCSA lounge has become a base for many commuters, offering a place to hang out, eat, study, and play games between classes. In addition to the RCSA lounge, there are also commuter lounges located in the Busch Student Center and the Douglass Student Center, which offer amenities such as microwaves, fridges, and computers.

Another way commuters can connect with peers is by joining one of the many clubs and organisations on campus. Rutgers has over 750 student-run clubs, ranging from academic and philanthropic clubs to recreational and performance-based clubs. There are also intramural sports leagues and fraternities and sororities to join, providing commuters with numerous opportunities to meet people with similar interests.

Overall, while Rutgers University in New Brunswick has a large commuter population, there are many resources and opportunities available for commuters to connect with peers and get involved on campus, such as joining the RCSA, utilising commuter lounges, and participating in clubs and organisations.

The university provides meal plans and lockers for commuters

Rutgers University, New Brunswick, provides meal plans and lockers for commuters, making it easier for students who travel to and from the campus each day.

Meal Plans

Rutgers University offers two meal plans for commuters: the 75 meal plan and the 50 meal plan. Both plans offer flexibility, allowing students to use them for occasional on-campus meals. Students can use up to 10 meals each semester for guests, and meals can be added at any time during the semester. The meal plans are designed to fit the needs of commuters and off-campus students who want the convenience of eating on campus from time to time.

Lockers

The university also provides free lockers for commuters at various locations on campus, including the Douglass Student Center, College Ave Student Center, and Livingston Student Center. These lockers come in different sizes and can be used to store items for a few hours or the entire day, depending on the students' schedules and needs.

The availability of meal plans and lockers shows that Rutgers University recognises the needs of its commuting students and aims to make their experience on campus as convenient and enjoyable as possible. These services can help commuters feel more connected to the university and facilitate their engagement in campus life.

Students can save money by commuting instead of living on campus

Rutgers University--New Brunswick is a popular choice for students who want to save money by commuting to school. With a large population of commuting students, the university offers various resources and support specifically catering to this group.

The Off-Campus Students' Association (OCSA) serves as a social, informational, and support centre for students who feel disconnected from campus life due to their commute. The organisation provides a comfortable lounge space, filled with couches and love seats, where students can hang out, eat, study, and play games. In addition, OCSA hosts a variety of events and activities, such as a monthly happy hour, trips, and workshops, fostering a sense of community and connection among commuting students.

Additionally, Rutgers offers designated commuter lounges, free commuter lockers, and meal plans specifically for commuters and off-campus students. The university also provides assistance with parking, transportation, and other related concerns.

The financial benefits of commuting are significant. On-campus housing and meal plans can cost upwards of $13,000 per year, whereas off-campus housing options near the university can be found for as low as $400 to $700 per month. While there are additional costs to consider, such as utilities, groceries, and furniture, commuting can still result in substantial savings.

However, it is important to note that commuting may come with its own set of challenges. Students may need to invest in a car, deal with rush hour traffic, and spend a considerable amount of time travelling to and from campus. Additionally, some students worry about missing out on the traditional campus experience and find it more difficult to make friends. Nevertheless, with careful planning and involvement in campus organisations, it is possible to have a rich social life as a commuter student.

Frequently asked questions