DeAnn Owens
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Pros and Cons of Bringing Your Car to Campus

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Life as a college student is demanding, stressful, fun, and exciting. It is everything all at once, and if you are just starting your college career as a freshman, you might feel overwhelmed about the newness of it all. When you’re thinking about bringing your ride with you to school, consider these pros and cons first.


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Con: It is against policy

Although college offers a ton of freedom, every institution has its own set of rules. Depending on where you choose to study, you might not have the option to bring your car to campus as a first-year student.

Even if your school doesn’t have the “no car on campus” rule for freshmen, you might struggle to find a convenient parking spot. “By and large, college campuses were created for pedestrians — and not automobile traffic. As such, there may not be many parking spots on campus either — aside from those designated for staff,” according to The Simple Dollar contributing writer Holly Johnson.

Pro: Freedom

If you have a car on campus, you are free to go whenever and wherever you want. Whether it’s to run errands in town, partake in off-campus adventures, or head home for the weekend, you have complete control.

Con: It pulls your focus

Having a car at college allows you to ditch campus anytime you want. That can be a good thing if you have to get home quickly or you need snacks, supplies, or project materials from an off-campus store. But, it can also be bad if it acts as a distraction from your studies or interferes with your efforts to explore your new home and meet new friends.

Pro: Helping hand

Someone always needs a ride, and if you are the one with the car, your friends may lean on you for help. If you are willing to be that person, go for it.

“It can feel good to know you’re helping someone out in a pinch or even helping support a fun event for someone special, like a celebratory birthday night downtown,” according to ThoughtCo. writer Kelci Lynn Lucier.

Con: It costs money

A car is an expensive toy, and if you have it with you at college, you will have to budget for automotive expenses. Most parking spaces on campus require a sticker or pass, which you will have to purchase. Registering it, too, may mean a fee, too. Plus, you need money for gas, oil changes, and other routine maintenance. If it incurs damage from a storm, that’s more expensive trouble you’ll have to deal with between classes.

Pro: Work opportunities

If you plan to work while you are a student, having a car at your disposal can open up your employment options. You can expand your job or internship search, so you don’t have to settle for an on-campus job that pays less money than you’d want.

“If you’ll regularly be commuting off-campus for a job or internship having a car may make sense. Driving is safer than biking and often faster than public transit,” according to MoneyUnder30.com writer Chris Butsch.


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Having a car at college can be a valuable asset, but it is also a major responsibility. Make sure you understand what each option means to you before you make a final choice.