At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for example, commuter students can purchase meal plans so that they can eat in the residence hall cafeterias. Collaborate with other office and staff. In 1998 SUNY Stony Brook implemented The Commuter Connection Coffee Hours in which students have the opportunity to meet with other students, members of campus departments, and faculty. Have residents adopt commuter students. Create a Commuter Center.
Students have instant access to academic resources, involvement opportunities, and networking.
Many campuses have space available in the residence halls. There is no doubt that commuters and resident students often have different needs. However, what they often have in common is the need to feel included and involved in a part of the campus community. The trick is to find unique ways to connect residents with commuters without diminishing the separate identities of the two groups completely. From PaperClip Communications January 2001 issue of Residence Life Executive.