To think I can drive 4 hours per day, 4 times a week as a newly qualified driver?

[Psych101B]

I am starting a university course in September and am unable to move closer to the university due to various reasons. The drive from my house is 2 hours each way. I passed my test in 2023 but haven’t driven much since (only short drives to local supermarkets etc) as I’ve been saving up to buy a car.

Am I being unrealistic in thinking that if I get a car in April and do intensive driving practice between then and September, that I will be confident and able to drive for 4 hours per day 4 times a week?

I’d do a combo of train and the odd night in a cheap hotel when you can. You might even find someone else on the course with a spare room.

A few friends and colleagues have travelled a similar distance for courses and all got the train despite the longer travel time as they could work or sleep. Far less tiring than driving both ways.

OP I think you really need to unpick the personal circumstances that prevent you staying away overnight. Such long days and exhaustion would severely impact and eat into what you can practically achieve in the evenings you are home. And there will be days when the motorway's closed or the trains are delayed or there's snow or your car breaks down. I think you will need something more robust in place for your family circumstance than relying on you getting home form 90 miles away anyway.

I agree. All the driving/ public transport stuff just sounds so tiring. Some people rent out rooms on a very flexible basis whereby you pay per night and say each week or month or whatever which nights you'll be staying over that period.

I also think you might need a rethink on the whole thing. Is it the right time for you to do the course when you have important commitments at home? Sometimes we cant realistically make something work even if we want it.

@Psych101B

OP, can you say more about why you wouldn't be able to live in student accommodation during your course? Someone might be able to advise in a way which might help.

Something I would urge you to consider is how hard it is to get funding for postgrad courses. You mustn't take any risks if you have funding - there is no guarantee that the funding would be available again.

You’ll be tired but you’ll learn on the job and be fine. It’s great that you’re determined.

What did you decide @Psych101B ?