The Bay Area may not have the robust transit systems found in cities like Boston, New York or Baltimore, but it remains a crucial resource for many De Anza students. For those who can’t afford a car or don’t have a driver’s license, public transit is often their only reliable option.

28% of students take public transit (VTA) to get on campus, according to a fall 2024 survey conducted by the De Anza Institutional Research Office.

Angela Nunez, 18, biology major, said she has had an overall positive experience with public transportation, but has had negative interactions with other passengers.

“I’m minding my own business, and then some people will say racist remarks to me,” Nunez said.

Public transportation is crucial because even with its downsides it still gives students a way to get around.

Aman Mansuri, 19, computer science major, said public transportation benefits international students because they don’t have to buy a car and it’s “cheap and comfortable.” 

“Sometimes I am late for my classes because the bus comes at different times,” Mansuri said.

The benefits of public transportation include saving money on gas and parking, and reducing carbon emissions.

In the end, public transportation is a necessity that everyone will use at some point in their lives. Even with its downsides,  it’s still crucial for the student population. 

Sam Galeana, 18, child development major, said public transportation has its ups and downs.

“There’s such negative connotation when you’re taking public transportation because people think, ‘Oh, this guy’s poor,” Galeana said. “(But), I love public transportation so much because it helps the earth.”