Community Standards

Commuter Students & Off Campus Housing

Off Campus Community

Being a commuter is a rich part of the Western New England history. As the University began as a commuter school and slowly transitioned to a residential campus, the role of the commuter student remains vital in who the University is today and in the future.

At Western New England University, we strive to support the needs of commuter students and off-campus residents. We recognize that the needs of students living off-campus are unique and through programs, services, and activities we aim to create a community of inclusion and support. 

For clarification, commuter students and off-campus residents truly are two different groups: commuters reside at home; off-campus residents elect to rent lodging. As an individual who travels to campus daily for classes and events, this site will provide information for both populations.

We're here to offer:

  • Programs specifically designed for commuters and off-campus residents, in addition to the programs that happen weekly which are opened to the entire campus community
  • Monthly newsletters to keep you up to date on campus happenings and upcoming events
  • Information for renters regarding your rights and responsibilities
  • Commuter lockers for a convenient way to store your books, extra clothes, or any other items
  • Lounge area with access to refrigerator and microwave
  • Golden Bear Commuter Council who program for and support commuter student life

Staying connected to all of the offerings on campus is an important component of commuter and off-campus life. Attending programs, utilizing academic resources, and getting involved are all great ways to remain an active part of the community.

Being a Good Neighbor

Living off-campus is a maturing experience, which carries certain responsibilities. Students living in the community are representatives of Western New England University and serve as ambassadors of the University. 

Off-Campus Guide

Commuter Involvement Opportunities and Services

Golden Bear Commuters 

Golden Bear Commuters is a recognized student organization dedicated to advocating for concerns specific to commuter students and those living off campus. Encouraging campus unity through partnerships with departments, student organizations, and on-campus residents, Golden Bear Commuters aims to create the best possible college experience for Western New England University students. Golden Bear Commuters meet on a weekly basis, at a time that works for the majority of students. Meetings provide council members time for discussing issues important to commuters and for planning events open to students who live at home or off-campus. New Golden Bear Commuter members are always needed and welcomed, so join today! Check out the Golden Bear Commuter Council Constitution!

Commuter Lounge

Have you checked out the Commuter Lounge yet? Located on the 1st floor of the Campus Center, this area is reserved specifically for commuters to study in between classes, take a break, grab a cup of coffee and relax. Weekly meetings of the Commuter Council will be held in this location. Recharge yourself, your phone, your laptop...this is for you, Commuters!

Commuter Lockers 

Commuter lockers are conveniently located in the St. Germain Campus Center. Locker rentals are available for a small refundable fee provided that they are in the same condition at the end of the rental cycle. 

Transportation and Parking

Parking information can be found on the Public Safety website.

Parking Information

Meal Plans

Did you know you can use Bear Swipes for meal exchange at the Urban Market, Burgers + Fries, Spirit's Subs, and more? Sign up for a meal plan to make the most of your experience!

Campus Employment 

If you are looking for a job on campus for this year, all on-campus student jobs are posted on Handshake.

Log in and click on WNE Single Sign On: Use your WNE Username and Password.

If this is your first time logging into Handshake, you will be asked to complete your profile. 

Once you have completed your profile, click on Jobs. You will be taken to a screen where you can search for jobs. Next to the search bar, you’ll see a number of filtering options, click the one that says On-Campus.

IMPORTANT! Jobs are being added on a regular basis so make sure you check back in later if you don’t see anything that interests you right now. Jobs that are eligible for Work Study Only are marked in the About the Role section. If you are unsure if you have a work study award, please contact your financial aid counselor.

To apply, click the Apply Button, and your application will be sent to the hiring manager, who will follow up with you.

If you have not worked on campus before, you must complete the appropriate Human Resources and Student Payroll Paperwork before you start working. More information can be found through Human Resources.

If you have questions or need assistance, please email CareerCenter@wne.edu or call 413-782-1363 and someone will get back to you in 24-48 business hours.