Abstract:

This study explores the consequences of independently paying for one’s postsecondary education. While previous studies have discussed the impact of financial aid, grants, and debt on students, this study focuses specifically on the question, “How does paying for one’s own education affect student experiences and behaviors?” In assessing the consequences of independent payment for college, I looked most closely at how integration of the student with their institution and other members of their institution was affected, how the student was supported by their institution, and how the student’s health and well-being were impacted. My findings indicate that students paying for their own postsecondary education suffer from decreased integration and experience a decline in mental health, despite an awareness of available support from the institutions they attend. All of the students interviewed for this study work full-time jobs out of necessity to cover school expenses. These jobs, which are often low paying and tedious, are the source of a number of issues plaguing these students during their college years. Although their colleges are equipped with various support systems for all students, students that pay independently rarely have the time or resources to utilize these support programs. As such, these students tend to report suffering through their college years, with the hopes of a brighter future in mind. This study will explore all of the unique issues and advantages which come with paying independently for college, and provide analyses of six in-depth interviews with students paying their own way through a mid-sized community college in central Pennsylvania.

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Class of 2019 - Concentration: Sociology