Gratitude
for Colleges & Universities

Higher education is a gift… requiring a level of focus and concentration that can cause a unique level of stress in a young person’s life. Gratitude can bring a sense of calm, peace and appreciation for the journey more than just the end result. 

We offer gratitude exercises for exercises for professors, educators & students to share on any campus or any environment celebrating higher education. We know that each student body is unique, so please adapt the Gratitude Challenge below to fit your needs. We suggest appointing one person to manage the challenge for your group – no matter how big or small – who can then share with us how you were able to bring gratitude to your college or university!

DOWNLOAD DIY GRATITUDE PROJECTS
FOR COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

We’ve prepared a few fun PDF downloads for you to use. Print, cut along the dotted line, and have a gratitude blast!

FUN GRATITUDE FACTS

We have partnered with UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center to provide you with these scientific facts. Click on an item below to expand and reveal more.

recent study found that gratitude contributes significantly to the happiness of undergraduate students. Previous research has found that teens between the ages of 14 and 19 who score high on measures of gratitude are more satisfied with their lives and less depressed.

Find out more about the science behind happiness.

Grateful college students don’t let challenges or obstacles get in their way: A recent study has found that they see setbacks as opportunities for growth. Gratitude seems to be a way of encouraging commitment and persistence in students—important skills to have in the rigorous academic world of college. Grateful students also feel more socially connected to their school and community.

Find out more about the science behind patience.

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. And when deprived of his happiness, his grades are liable to suffer, according to new research from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education.

Several studies have found that more grateful students get higher grades. They’re also more engaged in their schoolwork (and hobbies) and are more focused on trying to improve their communities. Research suggests that all of these benefits aren’t only for the naturally grateful: Students can boost their gratitude over time, like by keeping a gratitude journal.

Find out more about the science behind focus.