Loneliness Sneaks Through the Cracks of Hardworking Hunter Students
An informal survey assessing loneliness at Hunter College found that 72% of undergraduate students experience social isolation on campus, while 28% stay socially active through clubs and sports. Desteny Echavarria, a transfer student and Media Major at Hunter College, doesn’t feel lonely due to her participation in dance, but believes Hunter’s social atmosphere is a “hi and bye situation”, where students focus on graduation above all else. 42.6% of Hunter’s transfer students come in as Juniors, leaving previous social structures behind, in exchange for stronger academics. Although Hunter offers over 100 student clubs, advertising for these groups is often limited to fliers and word of mouth.
According to recent Hunter College enrollment statistics in 2017, out of 22,918 students, 83.4% are from New York City, with 3% from other states and 5% from other countries. Jackie DePippo, a psychology major who commutes from Port Chester, believes that Hunter’s status as a commuter-heavy school, sets it apart from other colleges in the tristate area.
“I’m sure it’s easier… at NYU, where students are exploring New York together, but Hunter is mostly students who are already grounded in their surroundings.”
New York University is a destination school with 66% of students relocating from out of state.
During the survey, taken early Wednesday morning in Hunter West, students whirled by answering yes or no, while hurrying off to class. Many admitted to being active on social media, but were unaware of Hunter’s Instagram handle (@huntercollege) with a humble 7,602 followers, that often provides helpful updates of current events. “Pleasantries are exchanged in the hallways,” says Echavarria, “but it’s hard to take that extra step to create off campus friendships.” A male student comments on the Dragon Ball-Z stickers on her laptop in passing, before slowly disappearing down the hall.