Samantha

Occupation: Medical Assistant

How do you usually get to work?

I usually commute by riding the bus or walking.

Why did you decide to commute this way?

I ride the bus because I am scared to drive, and it cuts down on my emissions.

How long have you been using this commute option?

Since I was a kid and since I had a job, I’ve used the bus to get to work.

How far is your commute? How long does it take you each way?

It takes about an hour to hour and a half each way.

What is your favorite thing about your commute?

I can decompress each way and read, or watch videos, or stare into space.

What is a challenge of your commute? How have you overcome that challenge?

It is challenging when the buses are constantly canceled. I had to switch work positions to accommodate taking a later bus if needed.

Tell us a favorite or interesting commute story.

My favorite commute story would be when I brought home each of my children. A friend picked us up both times and assisted us.

How does your commute help you save time and/or money?

Riding the bus is cheaper than a car payment. It doesn’t save time just money and probably lives since driving is scary.

How does your employer help accommodate your commute option?

They give me a cheaper bus pass because they have assistance through C-TRAN, but they are not happy when I am late due to canceled bus trips.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to use a climate-friendly commute option?

To leave earlier than transit tells you to in case the bus is early.