�鶹��ý����

Submitted by Alyssa King, ‘26

Whether the college campus you’re living on is big or small, travel on campus can seem difficult without a car. But it’s not impossible! Here are some ways of alternate travel: 

Walking
The most obvious alternative is walking, of course. Fortunately, compared to many universities, Cumberlands’ campus is relatively small. Still, on days when you don’t want to walk, there are other good options too.

Bike
Bringing a bike to college with you is a great way to get around as well as keep our air clean. Bikes come in different sizes and designs, and some include cupholders/water bottle holders or baskets. Having such helpful tools is great for carrying your things to class. Cumberlands has bike racks in front of several dorms and academic buildings so students can store them securely during class and overnight.

Carpool
Another alternative to using a car of your own is to hitch rides with friends. It can be hard to ask for help sometimes, but it is necessary for making it in life. Just be clean while you’re in their car, and, as you have spare cash every now and then, offer to help pay for gas as a “thank you.”

Other Wheels
A special skill set can be beneficial to you on campus: being able to ride a skateboard, scooter, or hoverboard, for instance. Skateboards and scooters (and some hoverboards, depending) are cheaper than bikes. And if the skateboard is short enough or the scooter is foldable, you can easily fit them under or next to your desk during class.

Electric Option
If you have enough cash saved up, an electric scooter or even a moped could be an option. At Cumberlands, these are especially helpful if you live in Templeton Hall or in one of the nearby apartment complexes, as they’re farther away than the other living options. For perspective, electric options are obviously more expensive than a bike or a skateboard, but they’re still way cheaper than a car.

Shuttle Bus
At Cumberlands, the shuttle bus is easy to sign up for, has a flexible trip schedule, and is free for all students. This is great for running errands around town or eating out. The shuttle also drives students to the Knoxville airport before and after holiday breaks, so long as you coordinate with the shuttle service beforehand. You can view the airport shuttle schedule at /airportshuttle. 

Family Members/Local Friends
You could also coordinate a time for your parents or siblings to drive you places, if they are close enough to the college you are attending. Nobody wants to burden their close family or friends with being their chauffer, but if you combine errands with going out for a meal or going shopping for fun, it becomes an enjoyable time for everyone.

Taxis
Taxi services like Uber and Lyft are an extra cost that can most often be avoided. But if you need a taxi service as a last resort, Williamsburg has options.

However you decide to get around, it is definitely possible and can even benefit our environment and your health. Using a bike or even your own two legs creates less carbon exertion which makes our air quality better and safer. Plus, walking and other ways of traveling on foot are a great way to get exercise in your busy college schedule. Just don’t forget to stretch first!