Survey: Health/wellness major factor in teens' college choice

Campus health and wellness offerings may play a significant role in where prospective students apply to college, concludes a Harris Poll on behalf of the Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA), which is promoting healthier campus initiatives.

In the survey of more than 400 high school students conducted last October, nearly 1 in 5 (18 percent) said they would be likely or extremely likely to change their decision to apply to a certain college or university based on the health and wellness offerings on campus.

In addition, just over half (51 percent) of female high school students planning to go to college find access to healthy food options in campus dining facilities either absolutely essential or very important when deciding where to go to college.

“From academics to campus culture to cost, high school students have a lot to consider when applying to college,” said PHA CEO Lawrence Soler in the release announcing the results. “We are pleased, but not surprised, to see health and wellness ranking as one of students’ priorities.”

In particular, students noted the importance of campus recreation facilities and quality on-campus programs like physical fitness classes, cooking classes and wellness education opportunities. Nearly 1 in 4 (23 percent) believe that access to these services and amenities were absolutely essential when deciding where to apply.

Contact Mike Buzalka at [email protected]