A Day in the Life of a Commuter Student at Cumberlands – Jackson Reece

Morning

My days usually start around 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., depending on my class schedule. I like to wake up about an hour before I need to leave, so I don’t have to rush. 

I usually pick out my clothes the night before, which saves me a lot of stress and makes mornings run more smoothly. 

I live in London, KY, so it takes about 35 minutes to get to campus. I’m currently battling construction on I-75, so the drive can get a little hectic, but I usually leave early enough that I don’t feel rushed.

Parking hasn’t really been a problem for me so far, and my classes are all within walking distance. 

Midday

Midday, which is when my classes are usually over, is typically spent at my work-study position as a Communications Assistant for Cumberlands’ Office of Communications and Marketing. 

I strive to complete about 10.5 hours of work between Monday and Wednesday each week. My work-study shift is typically from 12:00 to 3:00, depending on the day. During that time, I balance office tasks with homework and studying for quizzes or tests.

Sometimes I treat myself to Chick-fil-A before leaving campus—it’s a nice little reward after a busy morning!

If I don’t have work-study, I attend my classes and then head to my other job at Kroger. Working at both jobs gives me extra money for things I want or need while still keeping my school priorities in check.

Afternoon

I usually leave campus around 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. 

Afternoons tend to be my busiest part of the day once I’m home from campus. This is when I focus on completing any extra homework and ensuring assignments are submitted on time. 

I also spend quality time with my friends and family, catching up, or just relaxing before dinner. I’ve learned to use small gaps during the day to get work done, so evenings aren’t completely overwhelming. Keeping my MacBook, AirPods, and Apple Watch charged and ready each morning and night really helps me stay organized.

Evening / Heading Home

Dinner is usually around 6:00, and if I’m eating out, Mexican food is my top choice—I could eat it every day and never get tired of it. 

After dinner, I ensure everything is ready for the next day, including clothes, chargers, my MacBook, and any other essentials I may need. 

Then I hang out with my family before heading to bed around 9:30–10:00. My nighttime routine often includes watching Netflix or scrolling on TikTok—I’m currently binging the new Stranger Things season.

Quick Tips from Jackson for Commuter Students 

• Leave early / preheat car to avoid traffic and construction delays.
• Pick out clothes the night before.
• Check the weather and bring jackets/umbrellas if needed.
• Stay hydrated, carry a water bottle.
• Pack chargers for devices.
• Bring snacks for long days.
• Use free time between classes for homework or studying.
• Check class locations online in case of last-minute changes.
• Find quiet or favorite study spots on campus.
• Keep a schedule to balance work, school, and home life.
• Don’t stress over mistakes or mix-ups.
• Reward yourself with treats and small breaks.