From bingo night and a drive-in movie to free breakfast and an outdoor concert, this year’s Commuter Week hopes to bring students safely together and foster a sense of belonging on campus amid the pandemic. Hosted by the University’s Association of Commuter Students (ACS) in collaboration with Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement (OCSI), the busy itinerary reflects the long-standing reputation that commuter students have for being heavily involved in campus life.
“Especially while connecting with other students seems a bit difficult, ACS tries to focus heavily on bringing commuter students safely together through various events," said Stephanie Fleitas, assistant director of OCSI. "All of which aim to highlight the uniqueness of this proud and active community.”
ACS—often dubbed the ‘home away from home’ for commuter students—is a consistent source of friendships and mentorship opportunities for commuter and residential students alike. Through its long-standing participation in many University traditions and activities including Homecoming, intramural sports, and, of course, Commuter Week, the student organization supports commuter students who often face challenges in establishing connections on campus.
“It can be hard as a commuter student to find your place on campus because you don’t live here,” said Madison Capote, vice president of ACS and the program coordinator for this week’s events. “But ACS made me feel welcomed ever since I arrived here and gave me a place that felt like a family.”
From March 15 - 19, all students are welcomed to participate in an array of activities, with proceeds from various events supporting Relay for Life.
Monday, March 15
- Donut Worry, it's Commuter Week: free Mojo Donuts from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Westbrook Walkway outside the Shalala Student Center
- Date auction on the Lakeside Patio from 6 - 9 p.m.
Tuesday, March 16
- Bingo Night on the Lakeside Patio from 6 - 9 p.m. ($5 entry fee)
Wednesday, March 17
- Free commuter breakfast at the Rock beginning at 9 a.m. until supplies last
- Diamond painting beginning at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom; pick up supply kit from Suite 203 of the Shalala Center from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Thursday, March 18
- Moonlight Jams and DIY activities on the Lakeside Patio at 7:30 p.m.; hosted in collaboration with Patio Jams
Friday, March 19
- Drive-in movie on the top floor of the Pavia Garage at 7:00 p.m.; hosted in collaboration with OCSI, Cinematic Arts Commission, and Hurricane Productions
For more information on this week’s events, visit the ACS’s event listing on Engage.
