Unveiling challenges and successes for graduate students in a post-pandemic era

To explore the challenges experienced by U.S. graduate students in a post-pandemic era.

A total of 437 students participated in the study across seven universities; most were younger than 35 years of age (68%), female (68%), White/European American (78%), and enrolled in a STEM-specific program (60%).

Students voluntarily completed a comprehensive climate survey on demographic, academic, mental health, overall well-being, and financial characteristics.

Linear and logistic regression analyses identified several characteristics associated with depression, imposter phenomenon, social isolation, and stress. Perceived financial threat did not appear in multivariable models. However, dose-response relationships were univariately observed across most health measures indicating better responses among those with low financial threat and worse responses among those with high financial threat.

To effectively address the numerous, multi-dimensional challenges for graduate students, academic institutions must provide structural support to students' interconnected, academic, and cultural environments to supplement traditional student services.