Connection and belonging

By Carol Spencer, M.Ed., Health Education Specialist | March 20, 2025
Posted in: , ,

What does it really mean to belong?

Belonging is a basic human need. Belonging is more than just being part of a group—it’s about finding places where you feel comfortable expressing yourself and being accepted, understood, and appreciated for all your identities. It’s also a significant countermeasure to loneliness, an issue that has reached epidemic levels in the United States.

Loneliness is particularly prevalent on college campuses., The National College Health Assessment data for Fall 2024 showed that 48.2% of all surveyed college students had a positive screening for loneliness.

Looking at data for JHU respondents to the same survey, 51.6% of our undergrads and 43.9% of our graduate students screened positive for loneliness in response to the UCLA Loneliness Scale questionnaire, a three-question survey that asks respondents about companionship, feeling left out, and isolation.

A bar graph depicting the UCLA Loneliness Scale comparing JHU graduate and undergraduate student data against a national data set for the same period demonstrating JHU grads students are slightly less lonely and undergrad students are slightly more lonely.

Responses are assigned numeric scores that range from 3 to 9. Negative screening for loneliness, meaning the absence of loneliness, is 3 to 5 ; positive screening for loneliness is 6 to 9. The chart demonstrates that Hopkins graduate students are slightly less lonely (-.7) than other graduate students who took the same survey in the Fall 2024, whereas Hopkins undergraduates are slightly lonelier (+2.3%) than undergraduates who took the survey during the same time period.

The relationship between belonging and holistic well-being

A sense of belonging positively influences several aspects of well-being. Here are some examples of how that dynamic can work:

  • Professional (or Academic) Well-Being: When students feel connected and supported, they are more likely to succeed in their coursework or research. A strong sense of belonging boosts motivation, focus, and commitment to academic goals.
  • Emotional Well-Being: Being part of a community reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. Knowing you’re not alone, whether in moments of disappointment or of accomplishment, brings a sense of emotional security.
  • Social Well-Being: Building connections with others fosters a stronger sense of purpose and identity. It allows you to build empathy, expand your worldview, and develop lasting friendships. Inviting others to join you (for a meal, a walk, a workout, or any social activity) can help them feel seen and part of the Hopkins community.

How to connect and belong at Hopkins

Belonging isn’t about changing yourself to fit in. It’s about staying true to who you are while finding meaningful ways to connect with others. If you want to feel more connected at JHU, start with one small action. Here are some ideas:

  • Go to an event. There’s a wide variety of events on campus, from academic lectures and workshops to social activities and sporting events. Check out Hopkins Groups for events that appeal to you, and get out there.
  • Join a club. With over 400 student clubs and organizations, you are sure to find something of interest and a great way to connect with others. Some clubs are per school affiliation and others are open to all learners. If you can’t find what you are looking for, start a new club.
  • Embrace diversity and celebrate differences. JHU is a second home to students from across the country and all over the world, bringing a variety of cultures, identities, perspectives, and experiences to our community. Engage with people of different backgrounds to broaden your understanding and enhance your university experience.
  • Mingle with folks outside of your academic program. Hopkins is renowned for innovation and innovation emerges from an intersection of disciplines, so imagine the possibilities if you engage with peers from different programs. Cross-disciplinary connections can offer new ways of thinking and help you grow both personally and academically.
  • Consider volunteering. Giving your time to serve your community contributes to the greater good, and it provides you an opportunity to connect with others who also value making a positive impact. You can find opportunities through JHU organizations like SOURCE (East Baltimore) or the Center for Social Concern (Homewood) or volunteer through various local non-profit organizations near JHU Baltimore and DC campuses.

Take time for yourself and connecting with others: Amid the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget the importance of self-care and supporting relationships. Take time to explore and reflect on your values and your well-being needs. Think about what belonging and connection mean to you. Check in with friends, and take part in well-being programs. These connections can offer valuable support, not just during your time at Hopkins, but long after graduation.

Overcoming Challenges

It’s normal to “not know” things, and the university encourages students to lead with curiosity as they seek to find their place at Hopkins and in the world. Engaging in new adventures helps one to grow, learn about themselves, and build confidence to expand their perspectives. If you ever feel isolated or disconnected, remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to friends, mentors, or campus resources. Sometimes, simply talking about how you’re feeling can make a significant difference.

In summary, your connection at Hopkins is a two-way street; we strive to provide opportunities for you to belong, and you need to actively participate in building community.

So, make time to explore, connect, and create meaningful relationships. Nurturing a sense of belonging will help you succeed academically and personally during your time at Hopkins and beyond.

JHU Resources

If your sense of belonging is impeded by people who are being actively unwelcoming, there are resources available. If you experience any kind of discrimination or harassment, please contact Office of Institutional Equity.

References

Many thanks to Assistant Vice Provost for Student Belonging and Community Dr. Joya Crear, Ph.D., who reviewed and contributed to this article.

Tags:

Categories

Archives