Throughout my time at Dickinson, I have remained carless by choice. Yes, it is difficult to haul groceries back to my dorm, and, unfortunately, I cannot go to Target every time I want to, although, maybe that’s for the best. Regardless of the can’ts because of being carless, I focus on the positives. The main being: avoiding Carlisle drivers and not having to find parking on Dickinson’s campus. 

In my experience, Carlisle drivers are not always the most patient or self-aware. There have been many instances where they refuse to yield to pedestrians, stop, slow, and more. I dislike interacting with a majority of Carlisle drivers while I’m walking, so I can’t imagine how much I would dislike driving alongside them. I fear that driving in Carlisle would increase my insurance premiums…

Regardless of the difficulties with Carlisle drivers, it is difficult to park on campus. There are limited spots—many of them designated for faculty during the academic week. To even have access to the spots, one has to pay $60 a year, or $30 a semester. As well, street parking is limited. Street sweeping occurs almost daily, so moving your car is mandatory. Unless you live in a location with a designated parking lot—which I do not—it is difficult to find parking. 

While being carless, at times, can be difficult, I feel as if it was the best decision for me. Personally, I don’t feel as if Dickinson and Carlisle require a car, so I will utilize the walkability of Carlisle for as long as I can. Instead of worrying about traffic and parking, I will worry about everything else!