<p>I may have to commute to USC next year (if I attend) to save costs. I live about an hour away. I would like to save money, however I am concerned about the social aspect of not being on campus. Would it be harder to make friends? date? get to know people? network? etc. </p>
<p>Also, how much harder would it make the things I listed above?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>One hour is a tough commute. Is there anyway you might be able to swing one year in university housing? Maybe try to get an university apartment so you save on meal plan? </p>
<p>Also, keep in mind your financial need is determined by where you live, so if you are on financial aid and live at home your award may be cut.</p>
<p>To be Frank, it will definitely be a lot harder. Living with other students and around campus is pretty much how one really makes friends/relationships. Kind of forced onto it, but commuting you are missing out on that, unless you go all out and try to really make friends yourself. It will be tough</p>
<p>It’s going to be tough, and like was said above, if you live at home then you won’t get housing aid and you won’t save money either way.</p>
<p>It alsolutely can be done, but with a caveat. You have to have interests: be it sports (club teams), government or…? Would you/could you go Greek? A live out fee isn’t horrible, let’s you stay overnight on occasion, and gives you an opening to meet lots of people.</p>
<p>My kids commuted to SC. Their drive isn’t/wasn’t as long as your proposed commute. And after freshman year plenty of kids commute from apartments not next to campus. Both made friends and are having/had great experiences.</p>