Commuter School or Not?

Would love to hear from current students thoughts on Hofstra being a commuter school. Whenever we mention Hofstra to people, they immediately say “its a commuter school”? Is this true or outdated information? My daughter would definately live on campus and only be going home for breaks since we dont live in the tri-state area. What is the campus vibe on the weekends as far as campus activities and things to do? Do the dorms clear out because so many kids, even if not commuters, live within driving distance?

Hi @handlmom! I understand you were asking for current students’ opinions (and I’m happy to connect you with current students) but I wanted to mention that 48% of the incoming class were from out of state, and many local students choose to live on campus, too.

There are plenty of weekend activities and open facilities on campus for a wide range of interests. Most of the commuter students I know tend to come back or stay on campus during weekends to hang out with friends, too!

Thank you @hofstrarep. That is good to hear, but any idea why the strong “commuter school” reputation? Do you know the percentage of students that are commuter vs live on campus?

I just googled it.

47% of their undergrads are from Long Island, so most of them presumably commute.

I would imagine that the remaining 53% are probably living on or near campus.

My son is from NYC but lives on campus. He often comes into the city for the day on the weekend to do something but when he stays on campus there is plenty to do - movies, parties, basketball games, shuttle to the mall.

@handlmom, on average about 70-75% of first-year students choose to live on campus. This number has increased a lot in the past 15 years, which most likely explains the lingering “commuter school” perception!