St. John’s University students are already a month into the fall semester. With midterms looming and mid-semester grades due by Oct. 22, the workload can be challenging, especially for commuter students. 

Many students have to balance academics, work, social life and family responsibilities, on top of commuting to campus multiple times a week and worrying about making it to class on time. Approximately 75% of students are commuters, and 80% of the student body are residents of New York State.

A gap between classes allows students to take a break from lectures and learning. Some commuters might find this gap to be boring or unproductive, but if it’s used productively, it provides them an opportunity to explore the campus and some of the activities it has to offer. 

Attend a Club Meeting

St. John’s has more than 180 student-run campus organizations for students to join. 

From countless Fraternities and Sororities to the Sports Management Association and WRED-TV, the options are endless.

Attending one of these organizations’ meetings is a great way to make new friends, attend fun events, practice networking and learn more about your field of study outside of the classroom. It also provides an excellent opportunity to learn new hobbies and share ones you enjoy with others.

Clubs are open to all students, regardless of their year and major. For younger students, they can help build confidence by taking leadership positions on the organization’s E-Board. This experience will help their resumes stand out when applying for jobs after graduation.

Meet With Your Academic or Career Advisor

St. John’s offers students many opportunities to succeed in and outside of the classroom, including helpful academic and career advisors. During downtime, schedule an appointment with them.

These offices allow students to develop their resume, practice for job interviews and create a course schedule that aligns with their availability. Giving students yet another resource to learn more about what it takes to succeed in their field. 

Additionally, advisors can help you deal with emotional and social challenges you may encounter in college.

First-year student advisors are in the Center for Student Success suite in St. Augustine Hall. On the second floor of that same building, Collins College of Professional Studies (CCPS) students can meet with their advisors. To obtain more information, students can download Handshake or visit the Career Development Office.

Find a Quiet Place to Study

Locating a quiet, distraction-free area to complete homework or study is one of the best ways to promote productivity. Since midterms are coming up, students will need to allocate as much time as possible to prepare for the exams to ensure their grades are sufficient.

The D’Angelo Center (DAC), the third and fourth-floor libraries in St. Augustine Hall, and even empty classrooms, are some of the best places students can visit to complete their studies. For outdoor study sessions, an open bench or seat outside provides a solid place to work with fresh air blowing on your face.

Participate in Some Form of Exercise

Amid all the time relegated to your career path and academics, it’s essential to prioritize your physical health. A great way to do this is by developing an exercise routine that you enjoy and that easily fits into your schedule.

Some of the best ways to implement physical activity into my time on campus are by getting a workout in at the gym in Carnesecca Arena, playing basketball or whatever sport you enjoy at Taffner Field House, and walking around campus in between classes.

The best part of these activities is that you don’t have to do them alone. You can easily practice them with a group of friends or other students, which can help you meet new people and destress yourself from a long day of studying.

Campus Recreation also hosts multiple weekly exercise classes for students looking to learn a new activity.

Students are highly encouraged to use their time on campus wisely, especially if they have free time between classes to make the most of their commuter experience.