Campus to Chicagoland and Back Using The Bus and Train

Campus to Chicagoland and Back Using The Bus and Train Although were in central Illinois, it is extremely easy to get to and from campus, no matter where you are from. Im from Buffalo Grove, Illinois, which is 45 minutes northwest of Chicago. That means Im about 2 and a half hours from home. Although being away from home at first is a little tough, knowing that family is a call, FaceTime, or text away has always helped comfort me at school. But, when I do go home for long-term breaks such as winter or spring break, my two favorite transportation methods are the bus and the Amtrak train. The bus company I usually take is called Peoria Charter. Each day, they have multiple pickup spots right on campus, and they offer a student-friendly price to bus to and from the Chicago area. They even have outlets on the bus so you can charge your phone, laptop, or tablet. It sure makes the bus ride more comfortable when I can read my favorite book or watch a movie on my iPad. Source: Twitter Its also comforting to know that the bus company is a very safe option. Its nice to see familiar faces from campus taking the bus home and back to campus with me. Its really like traveling with your friends. Normally, the bus company has great customer service and really care about your safety and comfort while taking you home. Another transportation option I take advantage of is the Amtrak train. We are so fortunate to have a huge transportation hub right outside campus called the Illinois Terminal. Its a starting and ending point for mass transportation buses, Greyhound buses, and Amtrak. The Amtrak train goes to and from Chicago three times a day at really convenient  times. Ive used it on several occasions throughout my year at a moments notice for interviews in Chicago. The train drops you right off at Chicago Union Station! The Amtrak train prices are also a great option for students looking to save money on transportation. Illinois Terminal. Source: Wikipedia Both of these transportation prices should be a huge selling point if youre looking to be an Illini. Home isnt so far away, and the campus makes it super easy to get to and from campus. I truly wouldnt trade this experience for anything! Daniel Class of 2018 I’m an Advertising major in the College of Media. I’m from a northwest suburb of Chicago called Buffalo Grove. I chose Illinois because it was the first university in the entire world to offer an Advertising major, which is pretty cool!