Addressing Differential Impacts of Covid-19 in NYS: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Related Stressors on Graduate and Undergraduate Students at a Majority-Minority University in New York State

Abstract

The COVID-10 pandemic exacerbated stressors for undergraduate and graduate students, particularly those with minoritized identities. The purpose of this study was to explore student experiences and related stressors during the pandemic related to their education. We conducted focus groups with 30 students through seven focus groups in December 2020. We used thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) to analyze qualitative data which resulted in three higher order themes and several subthemes: Worries related to health, sociopolitical anxiety, dancing around the issues and impact. We conclude with implications for university systems including flexible policies, access to mental health interventions, and the use of a public health framework to understand barriers and access for students.