Once classes and school work are over, students often seek a space to unwind from their routines in an informal setting. These can be gyms, cafes, recreation centers and social clubs. All these locations play an important role in our lives to better quality of life and foster important connections.
The three essential places
In 1989, a sociologist, Ray Oldenburg, introduced his views to society on the three realms that he considered necessary for living a balanced and fulfilling life. In his book “The Great Good Place,” a bestseller and a New York Times Editor’s Choice at the time, Oldenburg claimed the three spaces that are essential in our lives.
His three essential spaces that he illustrates within his book are home, work, and a location outside our houses where one can interact with others and connect to the community. Defined as the “third place,” they have an informal setting, welcome social interactions, and are usually close to home or workplace.
These spaces build communities, foster relations and allow sociability. As a result, third places often have a positive impact on one’s life, allowing them to enjoy simple yet rich moments in our daily routines.
A crescent lack of belonging
Since the third industrial revolution, telecommunication and digital information have developed exponentially. As a result, means of communication, workplaces and social relations have changed dramatically, enabling information to travel at a record-breaking speed.
However, although the internet has allowed humans to be more connected than ever, there is an increasing epidemic of loneliness. Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are not gathering in community as they used to in the past; they spend more time alone, and independent leisure activities are often preferred.
There are a number of factors that play a role in this phenomenon. For example, the limited and difficult access to spaces can often make students choose to go home. Whenever third places are not walkable and need a vehicle to be reached, people often avoid attending them.
Additionally, the rising trend of individual consumption of media has an effect on this feeling as well. Activities like scrolling on social media and watching streaming services alone have drawn more people to stay in their houses.
Despite those platforms being easily accessible and letting us enjoy leisurely activities in the comfort of our homes, they miss something essential: Human connection. This causes us to disconnect from our communities and develop an individualistic mindset.
This lack of belonging can prove to greatly affect someone’s well-being. In Danish high schools, social disconnection was positively associated with an elevated mental health risk. Depressive symptoms, self-injury and body dissatisfaction were often observed in individuals who were not engaged in social activities.
Moreover, societal disconnection can affect students in their academic performances. Students across the world who experience loneliness are negatively impacted in their studies. Therefore, students need communities and third places to balance their everyday routine.
With the constant pressure for productivity and efficiency, it inevitability takes a toll on our mental wellness. While living in these fast-paced routines, Oldenburg’s ideas remind us that in the middle of a society that dehumanizes individuals, we need more than ever to be connected to others.
“The notion of a “third place” reminds us that human connections need nurturing”
Parkland’s third spaces
Inside our campus, there are various third places where students can enjoy a casual time. The library is a great location where students can interact with others without any cost. There are also tables and seats spread throughout the campus, allowing students to sit and enjoy their time together.
Clubs and events also actively promote community building within our college. Several student organizations meet regularly, permitting students to connect with others who share the same interests. Furthermore, fun events happen every week, providing an opportunity for leisure time on our campus.
The cafeteria karaoke that will happen on Nov. 19 is an example of how students can enjoy their time together without cost. During the previous session, food and equipment were provided for students who wanted to sing or participate. More information about what can be found on campus is available at the Student Life website, and includes future events and club meetings.
Reworking our mindset
Although Parkland College has over 6000 students on its campus, the lack of student engagement is a sentiment shared by both students and faculty which the college has been making a constant effort to improve.
However, a major change can happen within the student body. To improve the lack of student engagement and build a stronger community, we, as the student body, must start engaging more with the third places provided within Parkland. With simple actions like visiting a club meeting or attending an event, students have the chance to connect with others and be part of the community.
It is our mission as students to change this campus into the space we want to be in. If you feel the need for more clubs geared towards personal interests, start by looking for others with the same interests and establish your own. If you have an idea for an event, work with others to make it real.
Parkland provides a foundation for its students to engage in its community and now more than ever, it is a necessity. Prioritizing connection in an ever-isolating society will reward you with invaluable and fulfilling relations.