When students attend a comedy show, music performance, arts and crafts workshop, or even a late-night bingo event, they are experiencing more than just a surface-level good time. They’re leaving stressful thoughts behind, connecting with peers, and fostering a sense of belonging that many find hard to achieve on their own. In fact, research consistently shows that social connection is among the strongest protective factors against loneliness, anxiety, and burnout.
Take RhythmetriX for example, founded and led by neurodivergent drummer Max Young, which at its core uses rhythm, drumming, and group synchrony to directly target stress regulation, emotional resilience, and classroom cohesion. The science is clear: a 10-week randomized controlled trial showed that group drumming reduced depression and anxiety while increasing wellbeing and social resilience (Fancourt et al., 2016, PLOS ONE). In other words, the benefits of drumming extend far beyond the stage – it’s a powerful tool for mental health.
By providing students with safe, fun, and inclusive programming and spaces to gather, colleges are helping to foster stronger support systems and promote healthier, happier student communities.
A well-planned event has the potential to build strong communities out of those who are attending. Many students find that being far from home or new to campus has them feeling isolated and struggling to connect. Attending a shared experience with other students who might be going through the exact same experience can be a tool to bridge the gap between feeling isolated and making real, lasting connections.
Whether it’s dancing at a silent disco, winding down at a coffeehouse event, or joining forces in a team game night, events bring students together around common ground. These moments of connection are important; they strengthen campus culture and connect the friendships and networks that carry students through the ups and downs of the college experience.
While counseling services and wellness programs are essential, they can’t do it all alone. Campus events provide a proactive way to support mental health by reducing stress and increasing positive engagement. They offer a chance to laugh, move, create, and play — all activities proven to boost mood and overall well-being.
Even small events can make a big impact. Hosting a midweek coffeehouse performance, a paint and sip gathering, or a themed game night can give students the break they need to recharge and feel more connected to their community. For some, a simple night out at a music performance or the shared laughter of a comedy show is as restorative as a counseling session.
The value of college events doesn’t end when the activities crew packs up, or the curfew is called. These moments stick with students as memories of joy, connection, and belonging. Over time, these shared experiences and enriching activities create a stronger, more resilient student body.
Dr. Simone Alicia, Ph.D. aka “The Self Esteem Doctor” notes that in her professional experience, the pairing of entertainment-based programming with enriching or restorative programming often leads to measurable results in both short and long-term mental wellbeing—equipping students with life skills that support positive transformation and lasting resilience both on campus and beyond.
Colleges that invest regularly in campus programming not only improve mental health outcomes but also strengthen students’ retention, satisfaction, and overall school spirit.
The bottom line is that college events matter. They are more than just entertainment — they are tools for connection, belonging, and mental well-being. By bringing students together through shared experiences, campuses build healthier communities where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
At Degy, we’re proud to work alongside colleges across the nation to create these opportunities. From comedy shows and music performances to unique interactive programs like RhythmetriX, we believe in the power of events to bring students closer together and support their success.
Ready to explore the possibilities for your campus? Contact the Degy team today.