College students are “SABSing.” We know Gen Z loves to rebrand a generations-long tradition with a fun name. Now, leisuring about their campus with the hopes it’ll create the conditions for a social run-in is known as “SABSing,” which stands for “see and be seen.” Some consider it performative—going to the busiest spots on or near campus to look like they’re just hanging out or working with the underlying intention to get attention. But others feel it’s actually an important social ritual for Gen Z to be prioritizing. Older gens also put themselves in just the right spot to pass their crush, and some Gen Z are realizing they like this better than scheduling meet-ups far in advance and going out to more overtly social spots like bars. Even if nothing romantic or spontaneous happens while they’re SABSing, they’re still spending time in community, feeling connected to the space and people around them. (Town & Country)
