At a commuter school like CSI, class often ends where community should begin—but it does not have to. Students rush in for class and rush out again—but CSI can feel like more than a stopover. Commuter life does not mean disconnected life .
By: Precious Dillon
Every Wednesday, Ari walks the same path across CSI’s campus, from the cafe to 2S. She knows the buildings well, but the students around her… strangers. Commuting does not have to mean isolation, yet for many, it feels that way.
Students at CSI often feel out of the loop. With over 50 emails in students’ inboxes each week from professors, coaches, and more, it’s no wonder many programs go unnoticed. Students do not always see announcements in their email, and there are better ways to promote events that capture attention.
Understanding that CSI is a community college with housing on campus, it is easy to see why the sense of campus community slacks. Unfortunately, CSI’s promotion is not helping. Not everyone lives on campus and some students do not even know what food or services are available inside the library. As a senior myself, I’ve even missed events because of limited promotion.
Why do students complain that CSI does not feel like college? Flyers posted barely around campus, but today’s generation relies heavily on social media. Students want to attend events that make them feel connected.
Understanding that CUNY rules must be followed, CSI could still start small. Social media Q&As between classes, Instagram polls about what programs students want, movie nights on the lawn, or daily “fit checks” could make a difference. Feeling unheard makes school feel like a chore, not a community. If CSI listens to students—both on-campus and commuting—attending class could feel less like a routine and more like an experience.
I’m an RA in Dolphin Cove, I have planned many events and commuters constantly say, “Do I have to live here to come?” or “I wish CSI did this.” Dolphin Cove would love to help plan things to connect residents and commuters as well.
Let’s work together to make CSI feel like a campus where everyone can feel connected and included .
