I was hesitant to join a carpool at first . . . 

I was a little too comfortable in my daily routine, but the surmounting costs of gas and car expenses made me reconsider other commuting alternatives.

After some encouragement from a few veteran carpoolers and help from Stanford’s free ridematching service, we identified six people who all lived within a few miles of each other. We hashed out the details and started carpooling.  

I’ve been carpooling for over a year, and I couldn’t be happier. I actually sold my car, something I never thought I would do!  

I love the money the carpool saves me each month. I also really enjoy that I don’t have to physically drive the car each day, which means I have about an extra hour a day to work on things, read, study or nap! I’ve made some great work connections and friends.

If you are considering carpooling, I’d say to break out of your commute comfort zone. Change is uncomfortable, but once you make that decision, you and your wallet will be happy you did!  

 Emily Erwin  | Stanford Center for Professional Development