How do you find your way on a university campus when everything looks the same? In April 2025, we conducted an exclusive survey of 300 students from 107 French higher education institutions to better understand the wayfinding challenges they face during their first months.
The results are striking: 93% said they got lost — leading to stress, delays, and even social isolation. So, what’s behind this disorientation? What strategies do students use? And more importantly, would they embrace an inclusive navigation app like Evelity?
Getting lost is a real problem
Most students struggle to find their way at the beginning of the academic year. Our survey shows that 93% of them experienced orientation issues on campus. This affects all years of study, but especially first-year students. The consequences are significant:
-
40% reported being late to class
-
28% experienced stress or anxiety
-
24% had difficulty asking for help or navigating
What causes the confusion?
Several overlapping factors explain this issue:
-
Changing landmarks and buildings (39%)
-
No navigation or wayfinding system (30%)
-
Poor signage (29%)
Campuses are often large and complex, with inconsistent layouts. This disorientation is especially strong during the first weeks of the year.
What are students trying to find?
The #1 thing students look for? Classrooms — cited by 72% of respondents. Other common monthly searches include:
-
locating a friend or group
-
finding a one-time event
-
identifying key services (cafeteria, admin offices...)
How do they cope?
Students try to adapt with various strategies:
-
31% use their smartphone
-
20% follow a friend
-
16% plan their route ahead of time
However, only 2 in 10 have developed personal navigation tricks, highlighting the need for a more reliable solution.
A navigation app? Yes, please!
Would students use an app to guide them around campus? Absolutely. 88% said yes. That’s where Evelity comes in: an inclusive wayfinding app designed to support all students — especially those with disabilities — in navigating complex environments independently.
