🚆 Ride and Thrive: Ways to Make the Most Out of Your Commute

Freshers 2024
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Commuting to university? Well your commute is more than just a bus or train ride; it can serve as an extremely valuable part of your day! There are many ways to maximise this time and turn it into something productive and useful.

1. Catch Up on Study and Readings :books:

  • If you have exams coming up, you could utilise your commute by doing some last-minute revision. Similarly, you can use this time to do the pre-readings that are set before your lecture. This way, the information will stay fresh in your mind. You also won’t have as many distractions, making this a great time to complete these tasks.

2. Plan the Day Ahead :spiral_notepad:

  • If you are expecting a particularly busy day, it can be useful to create a schedule and plan your day. This may involve setting targets and goals or making a to-do list. By organising your day, it is much easier to stay productive and efficient.

3. Listen to a Podcast or Audiobook :studio_microphone:

  • Listening to an informative or educational podcast can put you in a motivated mindset. There are loads to choose from- you can even find some related to the course you are studying.

4. Pick Up a New Skill or Hobby :art:

  • With your university schedule most likely being busy and full, your commute serves as the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby or skill you have been wanting to pursue but haven’t had the time to. Whether that is reading, crocheting, drawing, or learning a new language.

5. Relax and Unwind :person_in_lotus_position:

  • Lastly, you should use this time to unwind from the busy day or week you have had at university. It is important to prioritise taking some time to relax to ensure you stay motivated and energised. You may even want to try some breathing exercises, as they can significantly increase positive mental wellbeing.

And remember to:

  • Check for delays: Before you leave, make sure to check for any delays that may disrupt your ideal time of arrival, which you can do online. It is best to familiarise yourself with an alternative route just in case.
  • Bring snacks and water: Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your commute and carry some nutritious snacks that can provide you with the energy you need for the day.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings: Commuting to university means travelling with your valuables such as your laptop or tablet. Be aware of your surroundings and remember to always check that you haven’t left anything behind.

Conclusion
You no longer need to dread the journey to university. Transform those travel hours into an enjoyable experience. Think of your commute as a time to learn something new, relax or prepare for the day ahead. Current uni students- what is your favourite thing to do during your commute? Share your thoughts below :point_down: Now get ready to reap the benefits of your commute!

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This is such a great perspective on commuting! I usually just listen to music, but I’m definitely going to try out some of these tips. Do you have any podcast recommendations, especially ones that are inspiring or related to university life?

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This is a very useful post! During my commute, I like to use the time to catch up on emails and respond to messages from friends. It’s a great opportunity to clear out my inbox and check notifications without distractions. I also enjoy scrolling through social media to stay updated on the latest news and trends. Additionally, I check my to-do list and review upcoming lecture slides or course materials to ensure I’m prepared for the day ahead. This way, by the time I arrive at campus, I’m already up to speed and can focus on my classes and tasks.

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Great advise! What are some additional tips you would suggest for university students to make the most of their commute, and how do you think incorporating productive activities into one’s daily commute can positively impact their mental and emotional well-being?

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Yes! One that I recommend is ‘The Uni Guide Podcast’ on Spotify which covers a range of topics including what it’s like to study abroad, navigating student finance, a guide to open days, choosing the right accommodation, and how to make the most out of university. One that I find inspiring would be the ‘7 Good Minutes’ podcast, a self-improvement podcast sharing ways to maintain a positive mindset, manage stress, and stay focused.

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I would additionally suggest students to stay informed on the latest news which can be accessed via news websites and apps, YouTube, podcasts or even social media channels such as Instagram and X. It is an excellent way to stay educated and aware on current events. Incorporating productive activities can significantly enhance well-being in a variety of ways. Planning your goals for the day as well as relaxing can reduce stress and anxiety about upcoming tasks, while learning new skills can improve your confidence and personal development. Plus, the physical activity you complete during your commute can boost your mood and concentration.

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will check it out!

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I totally agree! My commute to uni used to be the perfect time to catch up on readings or listen to a good podcast

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