Diary of a BSU Commuter

By Imani Davy

Hour long transportation, too early or too late classes, and expensive meal plans are in no comparison to the difficulty that most Bowie State University commuters face: getting involved on campus.

Most commuters are experiencing Bowie State academically, but not socially. Consequently, this leads to lack of school pride and raises the question in their minds, “Am I really a Bulldog?”

Although Bowie State consists of over 80% commuters, residents are predominately seen at campus events and programs because of the easy accessibility. Attending class and leaving directly after is the norm for a commuter. But why does this happen? Most commuters have jobs, forcing them to leave campus with little to no time to interact with others and/or think about getting involved on campus.

“After having classes all day, I have to drive 35 minutes to work right after. I don’t have time to talk to anyone,” said Golden Okolo, current Bowie State commuter.

Not all commuters have had issues with getting involved on campus, however. “I didn’t really have a problem with [getting involved on campus]…it would suck driving home at night though,” said Orlando Walker, former commuter.

Involvement on campus opens the opportunity to network and take on leadership roles. Commuter Affairs and Special Programs recognizes the need to keep commuters involved on campus and advocates for them by providing commuters with essential information, events, and more.  

 “My sophomore year, I would go to class and go home…,” said Destiny Onwukwe, president of the Commuter Student Association, “…but after getting involved on campus, I wish I had gotten involved earlier. Better late than never.”