University life represents one of the most thrilling chapters in one’s personal and professional life but also introduces a host of difficulties with the potential to intensify stress. When unattended, stress can worsen and impede academic accomplishments, emotional health, and social well-being. Objectives: This study aims to explore the relationship between stress, feelings of isolation, social capital, and locus of control among students at a midwestern U.S. university. Methods: We used an online survey method for data collection, using Qualtrics software. The survey was distributed through the deans of several schools/colleges, yielding 408 responses. Results were analyzed with descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Additionally, the survey included two open-ended questions that were analyzed for common themes. Results: In addition to having higher social capital in general, undergraduate students indicated higher routine contact with their social network and a greater ability to rely on their social network for help than graduate students. Undergraduate students also indicated having a higher internal locus of control than graduate students. Finally, female students indicated higher levels of stress but a higher reliability on their social network than male students. Conclusions: The implications of this study are relevant for stakeholders at universities that are responsible for student care, services, and engagement. We recommend further qualitative study on the context of stress and replicating the survey at other universities and with faculty and staff.

Authors:
Hisako Matsuo, Saint Louis University, United States
Pooja Ramankutty, Saint Louis University, United States
Mohammed Alnawman, Saint Louis University, United States
Elizabeth Salley, Saint Louis University, United States
Yuchen Bao, Saint Louis University, United States
Anita Devoin, Saint Louis University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Hisako Matsuo is a University Professor/Principal Lecturer at Saint Louis University in United States

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