I went to a commuter college. About 45 minutes to an hour each way. Either bussed or drove. Just part of life, you adjust.
We live in Chicago. My kids went to high schools with busses and trains up to an hour each way. Again, you adjust.
College kids in Chicago don’t really drive. Taking trains and busses each way. I think people that don’t live in a major city don’t see this as normal but it is. It can be used to unwind, social opportunities and study. These kids adjust.
As stated I think there are more students than not going to commuter type colleges. Sometimes you also have to do what you have to do. It’s not ideal for some. These students still are active on campus and can do all the same things. Just at the end of the day they go home and not directly to a dorm. The advantage is less time to putz around. Sure you can take breaks etc but lots use the libraries instead of vegging endlessly in their dorm rooms. Lots of commuters have to get more done since they have to during that same time period. Again, you do what you have to do with what is given. This is an excellent student. They will adjust and use their time wisely.
I also think the parents are living in the past and hope the high school has a sit down with the student and parent’s. I worked and put myself through college with financial aid. He won’t get any financial aid. No way I could do it with the constraints of today’s environment. I hope the parents see they have a talented motivated student just trying to get ahead. Maybe a family member can talk with them. Seems like a cultural divide.