Pros

If you live in New England — Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont — there’s a program that could save you thousands of dollars a year at the University of Southern Maine, even as an out-of-state student. 

It’s called the NEBHE Tuition Break Program, and it’s one of the most underutilized benefits available to New England students considering a public university outside their home state. Here’s what you need to know.

Making major life decisions as a young adult isn’t always easy — something that becomes especially clear once you start college. A couple years ago, I made the choice to transfer to the University of Southern Maine and commute to classes while living at home. 

Being a commuter student comes with challenges and I know it’s not for everyone. Keep reading to find out what works for me, and what my life looks like as a commuter student at USM.