By Jennie Allen
IMorningside has many students that live off campus and commute every day. For commuter students, living off campus works better for them. The college offers many perks to commuters to make them have a better college experience.

Commuter students have different needs than resident students, and Kathy Olsen works with commuters to make sure those needs are met. Student Government also helps in this regard. Olsen and Student Government are the two biggest advocates for commuters, and they are ready and willing to help.

One of the nicest things available to commuters is the commuter room located on the 2nd floor of Lewis Hall in Student Services. The room is stocked with a fridge and microwave for commuters who want to bring their lunch.

There are also computers and a couch with a blanket and pillows for a quick cat nap when needed. According to Olsen this room is rarely used, except by the staff in the Student Services offices, but she hopes to change that soon.

“I would like to have a meeting once a month with commuters to discuss issues they face as commuters and see if there are things we can do about those issues,” Olsen said.

There used to be a lunch once a month for commuters, but Olsen quit having it because students weren’t coming. She hopes to get commuter students interested in this type of meeting again.

Another perk available to commuters is a discounted lunch in the cafeteria on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Lunch is normally $6.85, but for commuters on these days it is only $5.25. That’s a nice saving for students who don’t purchase a menu plan but still need to eat on campus occasionally.

Small things like this make a big difference in the life of a commuter student. Danya Loutsch is one such student. Loutsch lives in Remsen, about a 45-minute drive northeast of Sioux City. “That room will be a big help to me,” Loutsch said. “I won’t have to sleep in the library anymore, and it’s nice to know that I can keep food in there. That will save me money.”

Commuters are also included in the college community through Student Government. Commuter Katie Brannen is a member of Student Government. She has been a representative for three years and loves it. “It’s a good way to stay involved and know what’s happening on campus,” Brannen said.

As a commuter, Brannen is aware of some of the issues that affect commuters, and she’s happy to take those issues to Student Government. She enjoys being the one that people come to with problems, and she’s always willing to help.

If students are interested in the perks that are offered to commuters, contact Kathy Olsen in the Student Services Center, located on the second floor of Lewis Hall.
(Nov. 5)