At Southern Nazarene University, some students rush to beat traffic while others debate whether or not breakfast is a good reason to leave their dorm. Both sides claim their way of campus life is best, fueling the ongoing debate between resident and commuter students.
While commuter and resident life bring unique perspectives to life on campus, students continue to argue why their experience offers the better college lifestyle.
Representing the resident perspective, Joe Wright shared why he believes living on campus provides a stronger college experience. “Residents are better, they’re more connected to campus and the student body,” Wright said.
Wright cited several advantages to living on campus, including closer relationships, stronger friendships, and the opportunity to live independently. He also pointed to the chance to both influence others and be shaped by campus life, adding that residents experience moments “you just can’t get as a commuter.” While he acknowledged that commuters may benefit from home-cooked meals, Wright maintained that resident life still offers the more enriching experience.
Offering the commuter perspective, Rebekah Davis explained why living off campus is, in her view, the superior option. Davis said commuting allows students more freedom and balance. “You get your own little life outside of school that you can separate from being in classes and things like that,” she said.
Davis listed several benefits of commuting, including being able to leave campus at the end of the day, having personal space off campus and managing her own utilities. She said her favorite part of commuting is the opportunity to recharge and enjoy quiet, personal time away from campus. She concluded confidently, “Commuters are better.”
The debate between resident and commuter students highlights the diverse ways students experience life at SNU. While residents emphasize connection and community, commuters value independence and balance beyond the classroom. Together, both perspectives contribute to the richness of SNU’s student body. Whether students are searching for parking or waiting on a dryer, the commuter-versus-resident debate shows there is no single path to a meaningful college experience.
Photo Credits: Shelby Kinuthia