Commuter Life | Undergraduate Student Handbook

With over 1,000 off-campus students making up 42% of our traditional undergraduate population, you are a vital part of our campus. The Commuter Life mission is “To help you find a deep sense of belonging through dedicated advocacy, resources, and community building.” This entire Student Handbook applies to you. We delight in helping you and we are your primary point of contact for navigating the campus.

Your On-Campus Spaces

Don't live out of your car. Use these extended-hour hubs to study, rest, and refuel:

Murdock Library & Klages: Open 24 hours for study sessions, printing, and group projects.
The Foxhole (8:00 AM – 10:00 PM): The ultimate commuter lounge located in Klages. Features Commuter Kitchens with microwaves and refrigerators to keep your meals fresh.
Hadlock Student Center: Offers day-use lockers, showers, fitness and outdoor programs, intramurals, and a climbing wall.
Dining & Food Resources: Canyon Commons, Bridge Cafe, Makers Market, and the Bruin Community Pantry.

Safety, Advocacy, & Perks

If you’re running late or regional traffic (I-5/Hwy 99W), winter weather, or car trouble disrupts your schedule:

Safety First: Never risk your safety to beat the clock. Pull over safely.
Email: Notify your professor before class begins.
The Backup: For extended transportation hardships or challenges, contact Dave Johnstone (Associate Dean of Students/Director of Commuter Life) for help, support, and advocacy.
Campus Safety ( 503-554-2090) offers free services to off-campus students, such as 24/7 escorts (a physical escort to your vehicle at night), and vehicle help with free jump-starts and vehicle unlock services while on campus.

"Drinks with Faculty" Program

Build relationships with your professors. Stop by the Student Life office in Hadlock to pick up a free $10 coffee voucher to take a professor to coffee on campus.

The Commuter Golden Rule: Don’t just drive in and drive out. Your degree is the goal, but community is what gets you through it. Engage, connect, and make this campus your home. For more information please visit the Commuter Life web page.