Most freshmen are required to live on campus by the university, but there are exceptions to students who live with their parents nearby. Although this alternative often is less expensive, a study show there can be negative side effects.

A study published by recent MSU graduates under professor Matthew Wawrzynsk show first-year commuter students are less likely to feel a sense of belonging in the MSU community.

The researchers sent out a survey to 301 freshmen commuter students, who were asked to rate their commuter experience.

The study found that most of the 37 commuter students who responded felt it was harder for them to access university operations, on-campus activities and clubs. The study also showed commuter students might feel a social and academic disconnect from their on-campus peers.

Wawrzynsk and the students involved in the study could not be reached for comment.

University officials believe this disconnect between commuters and the overall MSU community is a problem, and are taking measures to prevent it.

The school has an on-campus living requirement for most freshmen students.

Ashley Chaney, assistant director of communication for Residence Education and Housing Services, said “(the) on-campus living experience is not only crucial to their overall Spartan experience, but it also plays a huge role in helping students establish a solid foundation here at MSU.”

Chaney said nearly all freshmen students coming into MSU take the option of living on. Only 1 percent of students choose to commute their freshman year.

Most students become immersed into the culture of MSU by default, but commuter students such as Biel don’t necessarily share the same enthusiasm.

Although she has joined one on-campus club, Biel said most of the events and clubs at MSU aren’t tailored to commuter students.

Even though Biel does feel a disconnect socially at MSU, she doesn’t think it affects her academics whatsoever.

“It’s just a mode of transportation, not an excuse for not doing well in school,” she said.