Thinking of A Student Away From Home? Send them a Text!

Dr. Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, associate professor of human communication studies at Cal State Fullerton.Sending a check-in text to a friend or family member enrolled in college increases the likelihood that student will thrive, according to Dr. Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, an associate professor of human communication studies at Cal State Fullerton.

Suwinyattichaiporn’s research included 3,727 college students between the ages of 18 and 35, spanning both millennials and generation Z. She found those students who received texts from family or friends reported they felt less stressed and isolated when compared with those who received little to no text based affirmations or support.

“It means a lot to receive a supportive text from friends and family, especially during this time of COVID-19 and being more isolated that usual,” said Suwinyattichaiporn. “The main thing I hope people take away from this research is to check in with your friends and family and just be there for them.”