Author name: U-Thrive Educational Services

In this Learning Lab, we will share the various factors influencing student belonging, and explore activities that support students in defining what belonging means for them and in a college setting. We will discuss the need to belong and walk through a reflective exercise you can use with students. Finally, we will delve into the three types of mattering and provide actionable strategies to increase a student’s sense of mattering within the college community.

Humans are social beings and our psychological well-being is directly tied to the quality of our relationships. In fact, studies show that a strong predictor of students’ happiness and success in college (and beyond) is linked to their relationships and sense of belonging. A student’s sense of belonging to college helps them not only improve their academic performance, but also promotes their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.