Whether it’s to the MAC, the Castle, or Lawrence, it is common to find students accompanied by friends, a teacher, or their phone. For instance, if one person in a friend group needs to go, everyone then does too. The question boils down to: why do so many students feel that it’s necessary to be with someone or on their phone when walking?
Dean of Student Engagement and School Counselor Mark Spence said, “I think students feel a positive boost when they socially connect, regardless of the length of the connection. The positive boost supports overall well-being.” Short walks with friends to and from classes, lunch, and other areas around campus always entail opportunities for connections among students, showing a dependency on community.
Despite the comfort many find in constantly being with friends, there can be a downside to having too much dependence on others’ company. Anray Sheng (Class II) said, “If you have to overly rely on people to get places, I think you should reflect on whether or not you’re in a safe area.”
While social safety and fear of being judged may play a role in accompanying others, as a generation, societal perception and worry may also dictate how others feel about going places alone. Spence said, “I believe anxiety and the concern of having a spotlight on you play a role when it comes to seeking out company.” Being around others tends to increase confidence within oneself, but it can also display areas where anxiety stems. “I think a lot of times, you feel a lot more confident if you have someone you trust with you,” Sheng said.
Even though self-confidence and anxiety may be factors that play into why people may have a fear of walking alone, a majority of the time, it lies in a desire for connection with friends and the enjoyment and release from stress people get from being around them. Lily Bromley (Class II) said, “I think people just loved to be around their friends. I think that’s when we’re our best selves and our happiest.”
While many may feel pressured to walk with someone rather than walking alone, it is important to understand that neither shame nor embarrassment should prevent people from getting to the places where they need to go. Bromley said, “It’s never that deep.”
Students, though, should continue to remain aware of how much they rely on others to accompany them to places, and whether this reliance prevents them from doing things independently. Spence said, “It becomes problematic when the lack of having company prevents you from participating in something you want to do.”
Overall, students should not feel burdened by others’ perception of them when walking alone or with friends. Being reminded of the fact that there are many support systems and faces in the community willing to be there for you continues to be a vital component of student comfort and confidence every day. Bromley said, “At the end of the day, you’re more loved than you think you are.”
