An in-depth look at what drives today's college students, including their career aspirations, lifestyle choices, technology use, and social values in 2025.

What College Students Are Really Interested In: 2025 Trends and Insights

College students in 2025 represent a unique generation navigating an unprecedented landscape of opportunities and challenges. As we dive deep into what truly captures their attention and drives their decisions, we uncover fascinating trends that are reshaping higher education and student life across America.

Career-Focused Learning and Practical Skills

The ROI Revolution

Today’s college students are increasingly concerned about the return on investment (ROI) of their education. Unlike previous generations, they’re not just seeking knowledge for knowledge’s sake—they want clear, career-aligned outcomes that will translate into real-world success.

Key career interests include:

• Skill-based learning with immediate workplace applications
• Accelerated degree programs like one-year MBA options
• Microcredentials that stack toward full degrees
• Experiential learning through internships and partnerships with companies

Technology and AI Integration

With 74% of Gen Z students believing that generative AI will impact their work within the next year, students are actively seeking:

• Training in AI tools and applications
• Development of soft skills like empathy and leadership to complement technical abilities
• Understanding of how to work alongside AI technology
• Digital literacy across multiple platforms

Mental Health and Wellness Priorities

The Wellness Movement

Mental health has become a top priority for college students, with wellness trends gaining significant traction:

• Mindfulness and meditation apps showing proven stress reduction benefits
• Slow living lifestyle adoption to combat toxic productivity
• Work-life balance prioritization over traditional career climbing
• Stress management techniques integrated into daily routines

Social Support Systems

Students are increasingly interested in:

• Campus mental health resources and counseling services
• Peer support groups and wellness communities
• Stress-relief activities and events
• Holistic approaches to academic and personal well-being

Social Media and Digital Engagement

Platform Preferences and Usage

College students are active across multiple social media platforms, with distinct preferences:

• Instagram: For showcasing campus life and connecting with peers
• TikTok: For entertainment, educational content, and trending challenges
• YouTube: For educational playlists and skill development
• LinkedIn: For professional networking and career development

Educational Integration

Interestingly, 90% of college students use social media as an academic resource, with:

• 73% collaborating with classmates through social platforms
• 41% of teachers incorporating social media into classroom learning
• Growing use of educational content creators and online courses

Sustainability and Social Values

Environmental Consciousness

Gen Z college students are deeply committed to sustainability and environmental issues:

• Climate change awareness driving academic and career choices
• Sustainable living practices on campus and beyond
• Corporate responsibility as a factor in employer selection
• Environmental activism and participation in green initiatives

Social Justice and Activism

Students are increasingly interested in:

• Social causes and community engagement
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
• Political engagement and civic participation
• Volunteer work and charitable activities

Entertainment and Lifestyle Trends

Popular Hobbies and Activities

College students in 2025 are embracing diverse interests:

Physical Activities:

• Fitness challenges and group workouts
• Intramural sports and recreational leagues
• Outdoor activities like hiking and camping
• Yoga and mindfulness practices

Creative Pursuits:

• Content creation and blogging
• Photography and videography
• Music production and streaming
• Art and design projects

Social Activities:

• Gaming and esports participation
• Music festivals and cultural events
• Food experiences and cooking
• Travel and cultural exploration

The “Sober Curious” Movement

A significant trend among college students is the adoption of “sober curious” lifestyles:

• 40% of Gen Z choosing more non-alcoholic beverages
• Focus on mindful drinking and alcohol alternatives
• Social activities that don’t center around drinking
• Emphasis on authentic connections and experiences

Financial Awareness and Entrepreneurship

Money Management Focus

Financial literacy and security are major concerns:

• 48% of Gen Z students don’t feel financially secure
• Interest in personal finance education and budgeting
• Side hustles and part-time work opportunities
• Scholarship and financial aid optimization

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Many students are drawn to:

• Startup culture and small business opportunities
• Freelancing and gig economy participation
• Social entrepreneurship combining profit with purpose
• Innovation challenges and business plan competitions

Academic and Learning Preferences

Flexible Learning Formats

Students increasingly prefer:

• Hybrid learning models combining online and in-person instruction
• Self-paced learning options and flexible schedules
• Practical application of theoretical concepts
• Collaborative projects and peer learning opportunities

Technology-Enhanced Education

Interest in:

• Educational apps and digital learning tools
• Virtual reality and immersive learning experiences
• Online communities for academic support
• Personalized learning pathways

Looking Ahead: The Future of Student Interests

As we move through 2025, college students continue to evolve their interests around several key themes:

1. Purpose-driven choices: 89% of Gen Z consider purpose important to job satisfaction
2. Balance seeking: Pursuing the “trifecta” of money, meaning, and well-being
3. Continuous learning: Prioritizing skill development and adaptability
4. Community building: Creating meaningful connections both online and offline
5. Impact focus: Wanting to make a positive difference in the world

Conclusion

Understanding what college students are interested in today requires recognizing their unique position as digital natives facing unprecedented global challenges. They’re pragmatic yet idealistic, career-focused yet wellness-conscious, and digitally connected yet craving authentic experiences.

For educators, employers, and marketers looking to engage with this demographic, the key lies in recognizing their multifaceted interests and values. Today’s college students aren’t just preparing for careers—they’re actively shaping the future of work, education, and society.

By staying attuned to these evolving interests and trends, we can better support and engage with the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will define our collective future.

Stay updated with the latest trends in higher education and student life by following our blog for more insights into what drives today’s college students.