America's Money: Gas crunch hits home

Legal project assistant, 22, Oakdale, Minn.

After graduating college and starting my first full-time job, I found out that my employer offered a reduced-price unlimited bus pass.

I immediately signed up, figuring that parking in downtown Minneapolis would eat away all of my paychecks. Of course, with $4 a gallon gas, the price of actually driving to work becomes prohibitive.

I never would have guessed I'd enjoy taking the bus. I drive 10 minutes to my free park-and-ride, then get to relax during the 45-minute bus ride.

Since January, I've read over 15 books alone! Plus, the bus can drive on the shoulder during rush hour, so I actually get to work faster.

The more gas prices rise, the fuller my bus becomes. It is amazing to see the effect that the prices have had on commuters.

NEXT: Dan Korn: A different set of wheels