Examining the Impact of Car Commuting on College Students in Union, New Jersey
Stasia Shpungin
Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation
College: College of Liberal Arts
Major: Psychology
Faculty Research Mentor: Shanique Coombs
Abstract:
Commuting is a big part of many college students' lives. Grades, mental health, forming friendships, networking, attending events, are all part of the college experience, but commuting affects these areas differently. The purpose of the study is to explore the impacts college students face from commuting to college. There are many benefits revealed, along with potential drawbacks that come with commuting found in the study. A qualitative research method was used to collect data for the study. Interview protocol was chosen as the research instrument, it included seven open-ended interview questions on a Google form. The form was sent to three participants online, and the results from their responses were analyzed into three recurring themes. The themes revealed were about time, money, and the college experience. Participants shared their relationship with commuting and money, time, and the college experience. The study concluded that many factors impact commuter students, but how the students choose to handle those situations impacts them the most. The researcher recommends trying to make light of situations even when they are difficult, to help get through them easier and have a better outcome. The study overall helped the researcher provide guidance for present and future commuter students and come to the previously mentioned results and conclusions.