Division of Student Affairs

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is considered a commuter at Case?

A commuter (primarily a term that pertains to undergraduate students) is a student who generally does not live in a residential dorm and either drives, walks or uses public transportation to get to school.

Where is the CWRU Commuter Lounge?

The CWRU Commuter Lounge is located in the foundation level of Thwing West. It is located on the side of the building that faces Severance Hall and the circular lawn outside of the Kelvin Smith Library.

How do I get into the CWRU Commuter Lounge?

There are two ways to access the lounge: 1) via the exterior stairwell on the side of Thwing Center that faces Severance Hall and the circular lawn outside of the Kelvin Smith Library and 2) through the interior stairwell from the Atrium in Thwing Center. There is a door by the manager's office that has a label marked "Thwing West." Through that door you'll find a stairwell leading downward. At the foot of both stairwells you will find a door with a label marked "Welcome to the CWRU Commuter Lounge." The exterior door requires card access.

How do I get card access for the CWRU Commuter Lounge?

Visit Educational Services for Students, located in 470 Sears Building. Ask for Martina Croft, the Administrative Manager, who will help you obtain card access. Once you are in the system, you can use your ID card to swipe the door to the lounge. When the console shows only a green light, that indicates that your access has been granted and you can enter.

Can I park after-hours at other spots on campus?

Your commuter permit is valid on most main campus lots Monday through Friday after 5 p.m. and all hours on weekends. Not all parking lots are available for after-hours parking; several require University ID card access. Ask about this option when you purchase your permit or call Access Services at 216.368.2714.

How big of an issue is safety on campus? How do I stay safe?

Safety is a big issue, especially for commuters. The Office of Commuter Services always encourages students to get involved with campus activities and sometimes this means staying overnight, especially if you also have to study. OCS always posts security advisories from Case Protective Services on the bulletin boards and doors of the CWRU Commuter Lounge. To be safe, you should always travel with a companion at night or get an escort from Protective Services. To get an escort, or even if you have an emergency, there is an easy number that is very important to remember, 216.368.3333 or x3333 on a campus emergency phone.

What is Educational Services for Students (ESS)?

Educational Services for Students is located in 470 Sears Building. The mission of ESS is to help students reach their full academic potential. Commuter Services is a part of ESS, which in turn is part of the Division of Student Affairs. The ESS team is comprised of tutors, Supplemental Instruction leaders (SIs) and ELC lab assistants.

What and where is the Electronic Learning Center (ELC)?

The ELC is a computer lab located within ESS, right next to the main office.

Can I access my email off-campus?

You can visit the Help Desk or call 216.368.HELP (4357) for more information on setting up off-campus access. Case students also can access the Case Software Center off-campus.

Is it tough being a Case commuter?

Being a commuter student—like being a resident—has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the most common challenges commuter students face is the commute itself. The commute between home and school can often add frustration and stress to a commuter's learning experience, especially during the winter months. However, regardless of what roadblocks commuting may have in your academic career, we strive to help you overcome them so you can concentrate on studying and help you enjoy all that campus life at Case has to offer.

Why do students commute?

One of the main reasons some students choose to commute is money. Most commuter students at Case are from Cleveland and the surrounding metropolitan area. It is more cost effective for some students to drive or even walk to school from the surrounding area then it is for them to pay to reside on campus. Still, other students may choose to commute as an alternative to residence life.

What is the Commuter Student Association?

The Commuter Student Association is a student organization funded by Undergraduate Student Government (USG). The officers of the Commuter Student Association host a variety of events in the CWRU Commuter Lounge where not only commuters but residents may attend. These events include pizza parties, outdoor picnics, breakfasts and ice cream socials. The Commuter Student Association is open to commuters and residents to join, so that both groups can recognize that commuters know how to party, also!