Icon courtesy of Commuter Affairs
This week, Ramapo College is celebrating Commuter Appreciation week. Being that Ramapo’s student population is made up of nearly 50 percent commuters, this week recognizes all commuter students and serves to remind them that they have support at Ramapo.
Commuter Affairs is responsible for the week of events and operates out of the Center for Student Involvement.
Commuter Affairs Coordinator Megan Kearney stated, “For Commuter Appreciation Week I strive to give commuters a personalized experience where they feel welcomed and cared for.”
She wanted to use the week to host various events to appeal to all commuter students.
Kearney continued, “Whether it's tabling and handing out free breakfast, participating in athletic classes at the Bill or enjoying some Moe's and a Movie, it's my job as Coordinator for Commuter Affairs to ensure a wonderful college experience for my commuters.”
Overall, Kearney looks to make sure that all commuter students are comfortable, welcomed and supported at Ramapo, and hopes that this week of events helps her accomplish that goal.
Commuter Affairs Student Manager Lauren Brereton was also very excited about the week of events. While Brereton is a residential student, working for Commuter Affairs has helped her recognize the commuters on campus and was thrilled to be a part of their week of appreciation.
“I am a resident but it is fun to plan fun events for the commuter students to enjoy. It is important that all students at Ramapo show their support for the commuters who play such a crucial role on campus,” Brereton said.
Nancy Callow, senior, has commuted to Ramapo the past few years, and this year she began working for Commuter Affairs.
“Commuter Affairs has grown greatly since I came here freshman year. Working in Commuter Affairs has helped me advocate for the commuter student body that makes up a large part of the Ramapo campus,” said Callow.
Kearney, Brereton, Callow and the rest of the Commuter Affairs staff planned various events and activities for commuter students. On Monday, Commuter Affairs hosted Linner and a Movie where students ate dinner provided by Moe’s Southwest Grill and watched the film “The Secret Life of Pets.” They also gave away free breakfast Monday morning and hosted events in the Bradley Center both Tuesday and Wednesday.
Brereton commented, “Commuters were a big fan of breakfast in B-Lot. Some students came to campus early to get their breakfast.”
For the final day of Commuter Appreciation Week, commuters are encouraged to grab a free breakfast in B-Lot at 9 a.m. and take a trip to Pinot’s Palette from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The rain location for breakfast is the C-wing underpass located across from the entrance to the Atrium. Tickets for the painting experience are on sale at Roadrunner Central for $10 for commuter students and $25 for residents.
“I'm personally excited for the Pinot’s Palette trip because I get to run it. We hope a lot of people come and paint with us,” Bereton said.
All information can be found on the Commuter Affairs social media pages @RCNJcommuters or in the CSI offices in the student center.
Kearney wants commuters to know, “We love you, we appreciate you and we wouldn't be as successful without you!”
ewisnesk@ramapo.edu
