LYNX LIFE LIBRARY

College is often portrayed as the time of your life—filled with new experiences, friendships, and opportunities. However, for many students, loneliness can become a very real struggle. Whether it’s the pressure of academic performance, the challenge in finding meaningful social connections, or the increasing reliance on technology, feelings of isolation are more common than many realize. For some students, especially those on nontraditional commuter campuses like ours, loneliness can become even more pronounced, leaving many feeling down and disconnected from their peers.

What Contributes to Loneliness?

Technology and Social Media

Technology is more alive than ever. It allows us to connect with other people in unique ways, yet can also exacerbate feelings of loneliness. As students spend more time on their phones or computers, they may be more inclined to engage with others virtually rather than face-to-face. It can also be difficult to see others spending time together on social media, contributing to feelings of inadequacy and exclusion. Often it is true that "the more time we spend online, the more disconnected we feel from those around us" (NYT, 2023). This disconnect can be especially damaging during college, a time when students are still navigating how to build meaningful and important relationships.

Campus Structure

Commuter campuses, where students often travel to and from campus rather than living on-site, can increase feelings of loneliness. Without the sense of community that comes from the majority of students on campus living in a dorm or on-campus housing, commuter students may miss out on spontaneous social interactions and opportunities to form bonds with classmates. Many commuter students attend class, then head straight home, leaving little room for organic connections to form. This lack of immersion in the campus community can leave students feeling isolated, especially if they are new to the area or have not yet found their people.  

Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is another factor possibly contributing to loneliness in college. For students already struggling with social anxiety, the fast-paced environment of college life can be overwhelming. They may find it difficult to initiate conversations, attend social events, or engage in group settings, leading them to isolate themselves further. Research has shown that nearly 40% of college students experience some form of social anxiety during their time at school (NYT, 2023), making it an important issue in understanding the loneliness many students face.

Finding Connection 

Although loneliness can feel overwhelming, there are many ways to combat it and create meaningful social connections on campus. Here are some practical steps to find connection with even one or two people:

Smile and Say Hello!

One of the simplest ways to start forming connections is by smiling and saying hello to people around you. It may feel intimidating at first, but a warm smile or a simple greeting can open the door to friendly conversations. Small gestures like these can help break the ice and make you more approachable to others who might also be feeling shy or uncertain. You never know if the person sitting next to you in class might feel the same way as you. 

Join a Club or Campus Group

One of the best ways to meet people with similar interests is by joining a club or organization on campus. CU Denver’s Student Life website highlights numerous clubs that cater to a variety of interests, from academic clubs to sports teams and cultural organizations. By joining a group, you’re more likely to meet others in a structured, low-pressure environment, making it easier to form friendships and connections. 

Ask a Classmate to Study

A great way to combat loneliness while also improving your grades is by forming a study group. Asking a classmate to study together can open the door to further connection and time together. Even if you’re nervous, many students are likely to appreciate the gesture, as studies show that study groups are not only effective in learning but also create a sense of camaraderie (NYT, 2023). Plus, it’s an easy way to break the ice with someone you might not know well.

Attending Campus Events

CU Denver offers a variety events throughout every semester designed to help students connect with one another. Whether it’s a club meeting, a social event, or a lecture, attending these gatherings can expose you to new people and experiences. CU Denver’s university events calendar includes almost every event happening on campus each day, ranging from student mixers to cultural celebrations to workout classes. Even if you're attending alone, the shared experience can help reduce feelings of isolation.

Take Risks!

Sometimes, taking the initiative to invite someone for coffee or lunch can be the first step in building a new friendship. If you’ve been connecting with someone in class, for example, taking a risk to reach out outside of class can lead to deeper social connections. Even if it feels uncomfortable at first, you might be surprised by how many students are open to the invitation, as loneliness is a shared experience for many. It can be scary and overwhelming to initiate spending time with someone, but it can also greatly pay off- you might even find a close friend in the process!

A Connected Campus

Loneliness is a very normal issue among college students, and very common here at CU Denver. You are not alone if you feel like it is difficult to meet others or form strong connections. However, loneliness doesn’t have to define your college experience. By taking small steps to engage with others, you can build a strong support system that will not only combat isolation but also create meaningful change in your life. 

Sources:

• The New York Times, "The Impact of Technology on Loneliness," 2023