Scenario #1: You overslept and didn’t make it to your first class…thank goodness you have a car at this giant university and that you don’t have to rely on anyone else to get you all the way to the other side of the campus; or worse yet, WALK in subzero temperatures.  Maybe you can catch the end of the class if you hurry!

Scenario #2: You overslept and didn’t make it to your first class…I guess a car would be helpful, but there is NEVER any parking close to your dorm, and if there is, it’s all the way across campus in the garage so it doesn’t really help much anyway.  You decide to either call a friend for a ride, or start walking – which is fine because you need the exercise.

These are just a couple of the many difficult situations that could come up at college. So, should you take a car to college?  Let’s break it down.

Convenience

There’s no denying that having a car on campus would make things a lot easier, for you and for everyone else.  You wouldn’t have to rely on others for a ride, especially if you’re rushed.  And on occasion you could give others a ride if they needed one – and maybe you might get some extra gas money out of that arrangement!

Aside from having a car on campus, it would also be easier if you had a car for all of the off-campus activities and places you’ll need/want to go: shopping, laundromat runs, a part-time job, and any other activities that don’t take place on the campus grounds.  And even though Uber/Lyft rides would be easy and convenient, they would also be EXPENSIVE.

Off-Campus Housing

What if you don’t live in the dorms, but rather in an apartment a mile or two away from campus with some friends?  One could only assume that a car would be essential, especially if you’re involved in many campus activities and spend a lot of time on school grounds outside of the classroom.

Consider the Costs

There are several items of expense to take into consideration: ride-sharing (Uber), parking permits, gas, routine maintenance, repairs, insurance/registration, etc.  Again, those costs could add up quickly, especially if mom and dad don’t factor into the expense.

Home for the Holidays

It would be easier on both you and your parents if you were able to drive home for holidays and school breaks.  You wouldn’t be at the mercy of friends, especially if your schedule doesn’t coincide with theirs and you end up having to wait an extra day.  Also, being able to drive back to campus when it’s most convenient for you would be extremely helpful.

Conclusion

There are many things to take into consideration when it comes to having a car at college.  It’s best to determine if the convenience outweighs the costs, or if the costs are at least manageable for your situation.  Either way, review the pros and cons and come up with a plan that works best for you.

By Lori Caffery