{"id":35697,"date":"2026-08-04T14:39:20","date_gmt":"2026-08-04T13:39:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.york.ac.uk\/student-voices\/?p=35697"},"modified":"2026-08-12T10:23:07","modified_gmt":"2026-08-12T09:23:07","slug":"commuting-york-neurodivergent-student","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.york.ac.uk\/student-voices\/2026\/08\/04\/commuting-york-neurodivergent-student\/","title":{"rendered":"Commuting to York as a Neurodivergent Student"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Commuting to the University of York has been an important part of my student experience, especially as a neurodivergent person. Choosing to live off campus gave me the stability and predictability I rely on, while still allowing me to enjoy the academic and social opportunities available at York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Having a home environment tailored to my sensory needs – where I can control noise, lighting and routine – has made a significant difference to my wellbeing and ability to manage busy days on campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Commuting also offers practical benefits. Depending on your circumstances, it can be more affordable, particularly if you\u2019re eligible for travel discounts. It also provides built\u2011in quiet time before and after classes, which can be helpful if you find constant social interaction overwhelming. For me, that time has become a valuable part of my daily rhythm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

My journey to campus<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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York train station<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

My commute usually involves taking the train and then the bus, which together take around an hour. Although it\u2019s a longer journey, I appreciate the consistency it gives me. I tend to sit in the same area of the bus, wear noise\u2011cancelling headphones, and listen to something calming. These small habits help me feel grounded before the day begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During my undergraduate degree, I used a railcard offered through my student bank account, which gave me a third off rail fares. Now, I use the Disabled Railcard, which also provides a third off tickets and is more cost\u2011effective than the standard 16\u201325 Railcard. If you\u2019re eligible<\/a>, it can make regular travel much more manageable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On days when I need more control over my sensory environment, I drive instead. The University has accessible parking options<\/a>, including disabled bays and a permit scheme, which makes travelling by car straightforward. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although I try to reduce my environmental impact by using public transport, I\u2019ve learned to be gentle with myself. For many neurodivergent students, having the option to travel independently can make the difference between a stressful commute and a safe, comfortable one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Navigating York<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

York is a compact and walkable city, which is ideal if you prefer predictable routes or want to avoid sensory overload. I often walk between places because it gives me time to reset between activities. For longer journeys, the train is my preferred option. York station is well connected, with frequent direct routes to cities such as Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and London. If you like planning ahead, the rail network makes travelling simple and reliable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for a more comfortable commute<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n