In October, the commuter life organization hosted a “How’s It Going?” lunch for the freshmen commuters to gauge their experiences at Gannon up to this point. If you are anything like me, you’re probably asking yourself, “Would college students really be able to take time out of their busy class schedules to attend something like that?” The answer is a simple one: if you supply free pizza, they will come.

We all filed into a classroom on the second floor of the Palumbo Center and took a seat, secretly wondering, “Where is this pizza they speak of?” After everyone was seated, some of the Commuter Life upperclassmen began a PowerPoint-led discussion about the different experiences we may be having. First they asked us what was going well. I suppose they wanted to start off on a positive note to get the conversational ball rolling. To their surprise, it was silent. Then, we were saved by the bell, and we all had an answer to their question: the pizza was here!

After we had filled the rumbling in our tummies, we were all more cooperative with the discussion.

Students were free to talk about the things that they enjoy about Gannon, as well as some struggles they may be having with the transition to college life. Other students were able to put in their insights and prior experiences to hopefully help out their fellow commuters.

Some students who did not realize they were having trouble with the same class even resolved to start a study group. Aside from the free pizza, we all realized why we were actually there.

We may not live on campus, but we are not alone.

There are plenty of students enduring the exact same stresses that come with being a commuter.

It is important to remember that you are never alone at Gannon. Despite how much it may seem that way when you are driving to and from school, the commuter life organization always has your back and will help you to overcome any hurdles that may impede your success. They sincerely care about how college is going for you and they want you to become the best version of yourself that you can be.

If I ever need a comfortable, welcoming place to study or just hang out, the Commuter Corner is always available. I also know that if I ever needed someone to talk to about the struggles of commuting, or even life in general, the Commuter Life staff will be there for me. It is so nice to know that such an organization exists, that will help me to succeed and (occasionally supply a free pizza lunch).