Ages 18-22
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20 things college students think define adulthood right now
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Online therapy
College-age adults are seeking mental health support online.
Outsourced independence
“Adulting” — e.g., doing laundry, managing money — is often learned online.
All hail #RushTok
Greek life is setting the standard for fashion and beauty trends campus-wide.
Look good, do good
Beauty and skin care are edging out school supplies on back-to-school shopping lists.
Secondhand supremacy
Depop and thrift stores are the go-to places to shop, budget or not.
Fewer try-hards
Effortless style is in, and uniform dressing helps from class to off-campus.
Backpacks get an upgrade
Students are choosing bags designed for tech and wellness, not textbooks.
Welcome to my crib
There’s nothing standard about a dorm room anymore. Personalization is key.
Comfort isn’t compromised
Even a twin XL bed can feel like home with the right bedding.
Strava over Snapchat
Want campus cred? Run a marathon — and post about it for everyone to see.
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The Starbucks flex
An elaborately customized Starbies order is about more than the drink. It’s a small ritual to signify taste, preference and status.
Say cheese
Even for 8 a.m. classes, students are camera-ready, no groutfits or bare faces in sight.
Partiful, please
The rise of third spaces turns casual hangouts and craft nights into planned events.
Caffeine gets an upgrade
The Keurig still dominates dorms, but Nespresso is on the rise.
Early birds over night owls
Waking up for a gym sesh is more popular than staying out late for a party.
Thoughtfully artificial
Students are navigating the ethics of using AI for schoolwork.
Film photos over iPhone
Carrying a camera is a flex, and waiting for the photos is too.
Do not disturb
More analog living is becoming the college vibe.
Unironically preppy
That plaid skirt is no longer reserved for your Clueless costume.
For campus or camping
Yes, that $300 puffer vest makes you look cool. Arc'teryx is the brand to be in.
