The College Experience for Students With Chronic Illness: Implications for Academic Advising

Abstract

A purposive sample (2 males, 3 females) of students (aged 18–29 years) with chronic illness completed standardized measures and a semi-structured interview. Content analysis of the interview data revealed two themes: stress exacerbating symptoms of illness and a desire for a support group on campus. Viewed through the theory of emerging adulthood, participants' social support data suggest that some college students with chronic illness are challenged by the developmental tasks of this life stage due to their health issues. Male students with chronic illnesses may be at a higher risk than females for college adjustment problems. The growing population of those with a diagnosis can benefit from developmental advising that includes validation of their particular challenges and appropriate intervention.