College life often means juggling assignments, exams, and extracurricular activities, but during rare moments of free time, students find different ways to relax and recharge. Some hang out with friends, grab a good meal, or spend quiet time in their rooms. For many, video games have become one of the most popular outlets to unwind, relieve stress, and stay connected. Whether playing with friends back home or with peers down the hall, gaming creates shared experiences that strengthen bonds. The combination of connection and play makes time spent together not only fun but also meaningful.
Taking a break to play a game can also support focus and mental health while managing schoolwork. “I look forward to spending time playing video games after I get done with my responsibilities; it’s like a reward!” voiced Jada Zaragoza. For many students, reward systems encourage productivity and help them get their work done. Completing work first and saving gaming as a positive incentive helps students avoid procrastination — a struggle that affects about 80-90% of college students, according to the American Psychological Association.
While video games can feel like a reward, they can also teach skills useful in everyday life — from spatial awareness and faster cognitive processing to social skills and decision-making. A 2023 article by Dmitry Tulchinsky in Psychology Today noted that gaming helps players analyze situations, adapt to challenges, and create strategies under pressure.
These skills can carry over into the classroom and future careers, teaching persistence: fail, try again, and improve. “It helps me to concentrate better at my schoolwork and make more friends as I can connect with others who enjoy the same games,” expressed Parker Barnhart.
For many students, gaming is not just entertainment but also a source of personal growth.
On college campuses, video games have become more than a hobby. They provide students with a way to relax, connect with friends, stay motivated, and sharpen skills that extend beyond the screen.
Photo by: Ciena Perez