Generation Alpha and the Future of Well-being in Higher Education

10.03.2025

Natália Leal explores Generation Alpha, well-being and more

At the 2024 DHENIM (Dutch Higher Education Network for International Marketing) Conference, Natália Leal, Assistant Professor of Applied Sciences at Wittenborg, shared interesting insights into Generation Alpha (those born between 2010 and 2024) and how higher education institutions can adapt to meet their evolving expectations.

A new focus on well-being

Leal emphasised that Generation Alpha students will prioritise not only academic success but also their overall well-being. As she put it, “Higher education professionals were curious not only about the topic of well-being in itself but also how to bridge student expectations with the services their institutions will plan to deliver in the future.” She invited attendees to reflect on key questions, such as: What do we know, or can we anticipate, about Generation Alpha and their expectations?

Leal referred to the World Health Organisation’s definition of wellness as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

She also highlighted the importance of mental health, which is described as “a state of well-being in which every individual realises their own potential.” This, she noted, illustrates that wellness is about thriving, not just surviving. For Generation Alpha, success will not only be defined by academic achievement, but by a balanced, well-rounded life.

Bridging expectations with services

Leal further posed two critical questions to the group: how can higher-education institutions offer better well-being conditions to students, and how can these institutions showcase their well-being initiatives as added value for prospective students? In a collaborative activity, participants brainstormed ideas to enhance student well-being on campus. Suggestions ranged from sleeping pods to nature walks, meditation booths, inspiration sessions, and language cafes — all aimed at creating a more supportive and holistic student environment.

Beyond the classroom

Beyond her academic role, Leal is also the creator of a blog and newsletter titled 'Seeds for Growth and Joy', where she regularly shares insights on personal growth. In one of her latest articles, Leal reflected on the topic of receiving feedback, drawing from her experiences in Portugal, the UK, and the Netherlands. She explained how cultural differences influence the way feedback is delivered and received, and the impact this has on relationships in both personal and professional settings.

Leal’s article emphasises that “we each have our preferred way of receiving and giving feedback; however, what we often don’t realise is that most of these preferences are directly related to our cultural and educational background.”

She shares practical advice for dealing with feedback, particularly negative feedback, in a constructive way. “[…] manage your emotions, don't extrapolate from specific feedback about a task you did to your overall sense of worth or your capacity as a professional. Everyone messes up sometimes and we all have areas for improvement. Grab that chance to learn and grow both personally and professionally!”