"Less like a Harvard student": A qualitative study exploring food insecurity among graduate students in health...

While considerable research has focused on undergraduate students, food insecurity among graduate students remains a comparatively understudied yet critical issue.

The objective of this study was to investigate the challenges food insecurity creates for graduate students, the perceived influence of food insecurity on their academic, social, physical, and psychosocial well-being, and the coping mechanisms they employ within their unique institutional and local context.

This is a qualitative study, where semi-structured interviews were conducted.

A total of 15 graduate students in the health sciences (4 Master's, 11 PhD) at Harvard University participated in the study in Spring 2024.

Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and checked for accuracy. Narrative data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis and themes were generated through discussion. Food insecurity was assessed using the Six-item Short Form Food Security Survey Module. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of the students.

Several themes were identified from graduate students' narratives demonstrating 1) the economic landscape of graduate student food insecurity; 2) perceived influence of food insecurity on food acquisition strategies; 3) the perceived influence of food insecurity on physical health; 4) the perceived influence of food insecurity on psychosocial health; and 5) student strategies and support pathways in navigating food insecurity, including individual coping strategies, community support, and government assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Most students did not discuss their food situation with faculty or advisors, partially due to embarrassment.

Graduate students described how food insecurity contributed to challenges in food acquisition, poorer physical and mental health and well-being, limited social interactions, and difficulties in academic and research activities. Several students adopted individual coping strategies and sought support from the community as well as government assistance; however, more well-rounded efforts are needed to ensure graduate student well-being and success.