Managing Diabetes in Traditional Undergraduate College Students: A Qualitative Study of Academic, Psychosocial, and Self-Management Experience.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Diabetes management during young adulthood presents unique challenges, particularly for traditional undergraduate students navigating academic demands, social transitions, and increasing independence. Limited nursing-focused research explores how students with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes experience and manage their condition within the college environment. The objective of this study is to explore the lived experiences of traditional undergraduate students managing diabetes and to identify academic, psychosocial, and healthcare-related barriers that influence glycemic control and overall well-being. The guiding research question is: How do undergraduate college students with diabetes perceive and manage the challenges of self-care while meeting academic and social demands? It is hypothesized that students experience significant stress-related and environmental barriers that impact diabetes self-management and academic performance, revealing gaps in campus-based health support systems. This research will utilize a qualitative descriptive design with structured interviews conducted among traditional undergraduate students ages 18–22 diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Participants will be recruited through social media platforms, university communication platforms, and campus health services. Interviews will follow a structured guide addressing self-management behaviors, stress, academic workload, social influences, access to healthcare resources, and perceived institutional support. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and core themes. Expected outcomes include identification of stress-related glycemic instability, challenges with meal planning and medication adherence, mental health concerns, and inconsistent access to campus-based health resources. Findings are anticipated to inform nursing practices, improve campus health programming, and guide development of targeted interventions that support chronic disease management among college students.
Start Time
15-4-2026 9:00 AM
End Time
15-4-2026 12:00 PM
Room Number
Culp Ballroom 316
Poster Number
3
Presentation Type
Poster
Presentation Subtype
Posters - Competitive
Presentation Category
Health
Student Type
Undergraduate Student
Faculty Mentor
Kendrea Todt
Managing Diabetes in Traditional Undergraduate College Students: A Qualitative Study of Academic, Psychosocial, and Self-Management Experience.
Culp Ballroom 316
ABSTRACT Diabetes management during young adulthood presents unique challenges, particularly for traditional undergraduate students navigating academic demands, social transitions, and increasing independence. Limited nursing-focused research explores how students with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes experience and manage their condition within the college environment. The objective of this study is to explore the lived experiences of traditional undergraduate students managing diabetes and to identify academic, psychosocial, and healthcare-related barriers that influence glycemic control and overall well-being. The guiding research question is: How do undergraduate college students with diabetes perceive and manage the challenges of self-care while meeting academic and social demands? It is hypothesized that students experience significant stress-related and environmental barriers that impact diabetes self-management and academic performance, revealing gaps in campus-based health support systems. This research will utilize a qualitative descriptive design with structured interviews conducted among traditional undergraduate students ages 18–22 diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Participants will be recruited through social media platforms, university communication platforms, and campus health services. Interviews will follow a structured guide addressing self-management behaviors, stress, academic workload, social influences, access to healthcare resources, and perceived institutional support. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and core themes. Expected outcomes include identification of stress-related glycemic instability, challenges with meal planning and medication adherence, mental health concerns, and inconsistent access to campus-based health resources. Findings are anticipated to inform nursing practices, improve campus health programming, and guide development of targeted interventions that support chronic disease management among college students.
