Navigating Transportation at Stanford GSB: Car Ownership and Its Impact

At Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), the decision to own a car during your studies is a personal one. While approximately 30-40% of students choose to own a vehicle, the necessity and benefits vary depending on individual circumstances. This article explores the percent of students who own cars, the average miles driven annually, and the role of personal preferences in determining their use.

Percent of GSB Students with Cars

The percentage of Stanford GSB students who own a car can fluctuate from year to year. However, a general trend observed is that around 30-40% of students possess a vehicle. This statistic highlights the diverse approaches students take to navigate their academic and social lives at the university.

Average Miles Driven per Year

For those GSB students who do own a car, the average number of miles driven annually can vary greatly. Typically, students report driving between 5,000 to 10,000 miles per year, which includes commuting to internships, attending social events, and exploring the Bay Area. This range reflects the different needs and lifestyles of GSB students.

Necessity of Having a Car at GSB

The necessity of a car during your time at Stanford GSB largely depends on personal preferences and lifestyle choices. While having a car can provide several conveniences, it is not strictly necessary for most students. Here are the primary reasons why some students choose to own a car:

Internships and Jobs: Some internships may be located outside of public transport routes, making a car essential for commuting.Exploring the Bay Area: A car makes it easier to travel for leisure and explore the region, especially areas that are less accessible by public transport.Convenience: Having a car can be helpful for tasks like grocery shopping or transporting larger items.

However, Stanford's campus is well-served by public transportation, and many students opt to use bicycles, ride-sharing services, or public transit for daily needs. Therefore, a car can be beneficial but is not strictly necessary for most students.

Student Experiences and Advice

Here are some experiences and advice from students about owning a car at GSB:

"I got my car in second year, and if I could go back in time, the second most important thing I would change is to get a car in first year. More important would be getting a job at WhatsApp!"

Another student mentioned:

"If you own a car, your life will be immeasurably easier. Running errands, going to San Francisco (SF) or any other location like Half Moon Bay, becomes hassle-free. You don't have to think twice about how to get somewhere, and that is a real freedom."

However, for campus travel, students are advised to use bicycles or walk, as a car will likely be unnecessary. This advice comes from the practicality of the campus layout and the availability of transportation options.

50% of first-year students had a car, but with the new campus offering late-night food options, it's easier to get by without one. If you need a car for rare outings, you can borrow one from a friend.

Some second-year students found it challenging to get to social events, leading them to purchase a car. However, students who lived close to campus could get by with a bike, although it required extra effort to coordinate rides to faraway events.

I put 5,000 miles on my car during my 2 years at the GSB. In my first year, I probably used it once a week, but in my second year, I used it daily for school, which was a 5-mile drive.

Lastly, the popularity of car-sharing services like Getaround has increased. These platforms make it easier for students to rent out their cars, especially for those who might not use their vehicle frequently.

Conclusion

The decision to own a car during your time at Stanford GSB is a matter of personal preference and need. While some find it highly beneficial, others can manage with alternative forms of transportation. Understanding the factors that impact car ownership and usage can help you make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and goals.