Subjective Wellbeing among University Students and Recent Graduates: Evidence from the United Kingdom

Abstract

This study compares students’ and recent graduates’ perceptions of their subjective wellbeing and offers support mechanisms and resources to enhance wellbeing in higher education. Survey data were collected in September 2021 from 414 UK-based higher education students and recent graduates on their self-perceived subjective wellbeing in March 2020 (before COVID-19 regulations restrictions) and September 2021 (18 months later). Findings showed that subjective wellbeing scores fell for almost three-quarters of university students and recent graduates between March 2020 and September 2021. Interestingly, around one-fifth of participants reported increased subjective wellbeing scores whilst the remaining participants reported no impact. Positive impacts of the pandemic included opportunities for self-improvement with more free time for focusing on health and relationships. Adverse outcomes included feelings of isolation, reduced mental and physical health, difficulties undertaking degree studies and work, travel restrictions, and concerns for labour market competitiveness. The study advances the application of the conservation of resources theory and identifies strategies for higher education institutions to better support and improve their students’ and future graduates’ subjective wellbeing. Strategies include access to counselling, mindfulness, opportunities for participation in hobbies, interaction with peers, flexible work and study options, and guidance on career and finances.

Sustainable talent pipelines and person-organisation fit: strategic insights from UK graduates

“…The findings indicate that individuals now see a greater fit with employers who provide meaningful work opportunities and prioritise their health and well-being. This builds on previous research by Donald and Jackson (2022), whereby almost three-quarters of recent graduates reported a drop in self-perceived subjective well-being due to the pandemic. Participants of the study called on organisations to provide an environment where they could “learn” and “earn” concurrently by offering training opportunities, job crafting and salary and benefits progression.…”

Well-Being Among Nursing Students: Relationship Between Lifestyle Behaviours, Sleep Quality and Resilience

“…In contrast, a study conducted in 2020 among Australian university students during the COVID-19 pandemic reported that 66.3% of students had poor wellbeing (Liu et al 2021). The differences in the level of well-being reported could be explained based on evidence that the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely influenced the well-being of young people especially students and graduates (Donald and Jackson 2022;Martínez 2020). As nursing students are facing everyday challenges while trying to cope with academic requirements and patient care, it is cardinal that we recognise the factors that might influence their well-being.…”

Preparing for a Sustainable Career

“…However, reduced opportunities for lifewide learning and a lack of understanding of the recruitment process mean some students receive many rejection decisions, leading to high stress levels and loss of confidence due to uncertainty for the future. These experiences can have a compound effect since three-quarters of university students, and recent graduates report reduced subjective well-being since the pandemic began (Donald & Jackson, 2022). Donald et al (2019) propose that the self-perceived employability of students increases when they develop human capital, seek career advice, and proactively take ownership of their careers.…”