University life at Hogeschool Rotterdam is supposed to be a vibrant tapestry of connection – new faces, shared experiences, and a bustling social scene. But for many students, the reality can be a surprising one: loneliness. Despite being surrounded by people and constantly connected online, many students feel isolated and adrift.
The Paradox of Connection: Here at Get A Grip, we understand this struggle. Social media, while a platform for connection, can also be a breeding ground for loneliness. In the Netherlands, less than half the population meets recommended physical activity guidelines. This disconnect from physical activity and in-person interaction can contribute to feelings of isolation, even for those who appear connected online.
Social Media's Dark Side: Studies have shown that excessive social media use can worsen mental health symptoms, particularly among vulnerable populations. These negative effects include:
Increased Anxiety and Depression: social media can fuel negative social comparisons, leading to feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction .
Social Isolation: While social media offers a platform for connection, it can also replace real-life interactions, which are crucial for emotional and psychological well-being.
Understanding the Hidden Challenge: We recently spoke with Ms. Isabel Sole, Coordinator of the Honours Programme at Hogeschool Rotterdam. We wanted to explore how Get A Grip could connect with Honours students who might be facing loneliness. Ms. Sole acknowledged the potential value of our program, particularly for students who might not readily identify or feel comfortable acknowledging their isolation (Ms. Sole, Interview, 2024).
She explained the challenge: "Sometimes students don't feel well, but it's difficult for them to pinpoint the matter. They might not make the connection between their feelings and social isolation." (Ms. Sole, Interview, 2024). This highlights the often-hidden nature of student loneliness. Students might feel a general sense of unease or lack of fulfillment, without realizing the root cause is a lack of connection.
The Need for Real Connection: At Get A Grip, we believe in the power of shared experiences to combat loneliness. That's why we offer real-life events and activities that help students build genuine connections. These experiences go beyond social media, fostering a sense of belonging and community that transcends the digital realm.
Building Bridges, Not Walls: Ms. Sole envisions a way to dismantle the barriers that can keep students isolated, even within a seemingly connected environment. "The underlying principles of the Honours Programme align perfectly," she shared, "because we aim to create a connected community where we care about each other" (Ms. Sole, Interview, 2024). By integrating Get A Grip with the Honours Programme, students could find a safe space to connect and address feelings of isolation, surrounded by supportive peers and a caring community.
Ditch the Isolation, Find Your Tribe!
Loneliness doesn't have to be the norm for Honours students at Hogeschool Rotterdam. Get A Grip offers a chance to build genuine connections through shared experiences, from rock climbing and running groups to cold plunges and workshops. These experiences are more than just activities; they're opportunities to discover shared passions, build friendships, and find your tribe.
Honours Students: Are you passionate about a particular activity and want to share it with others? We encourage you to become a "Hobby Hero" within the Honours Programme. Contact your program coordinator to learn more!
Get A Grip: Explore our Instagram page to learn everything about our upcoming events, discover new passions, and connect with a supportive community.
Together, Get A Grip and the Honours Programme can create a more connected and thriving student experience at Hogeschool Rotterdam. Let's bridge the loneliness gap and create a community where everyone feels like they belong!
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