As a freshman student who commutes to Ball State for your classes, you can still be a part of our vibrant campus. Our office provides information and resources just for you!
Ambassadors Program
As an incoming first-year commuter student, we’ll partner you with a Commuter Ambassador. This ambassador will be an upper-class student who has attended Ball State for at least one full academic year. They’ll serve as a role model and guide, who helps you navigate college life as a commuter.
As a participant in this program, you may attended monthly events that help you:
- connect with university administrators who can help you acclimate to campus
- provide access to resources for students
- answer questions that you may have
- introduce you to fellow commuter students
You'll hear from your ambassador over the course of the semester because at Ball State, we care about your personal success.
Commuter Ambassadors

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Caleb Leah Julie

Shelby Sydney
Academic Assistance
Our office offers assistance to commuter students who are experiencing academic difficulty.
We use a coaching approach to support you, meeting with you one on one. During these meetings, we create a detailed action plan which outlines personal and academic strategies to ensure you achieve good academic standing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit the Parking Services website to see what parking options are available to you. Restricted Permits are also available for commuters.
If you have night classes, consider adding on a Night Pass.
Most certainly! Dining services offers several meal plans specifically designed to meet the needs of Ball State commuter students.
Choose the meal plan that best fits your needs here, including options specifically for off-campus students.
We have a variety of dining locations on campus to choose from.
Yes—lockers are available in the Student Center on the lower level. Just bring a lock.
Bracken Library is always a great place to study. They have study tables and rooms available for you to use.
How to Get the Most Out of Your College Experience
- Think of Ball State as your second home.
- Get to know your professors and use their office hours. They can help with internships and your career path.
- Give yourself extra time to get to campus and class.
- Keep an umbrella and an extra set of clothes in your car for unplanned emergencies.
- Get involved. Attend shows, athletic events, or join an organization. The Office of Student Life can guide you to many of these involvement opportunities.
- Share your concerns. If you have a suggestion, problem, or want to get more involved, let someone know. You can always email Janoah Williams.