The Experiences of Foster Care Alumni and Other Independent Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background and Purpose. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has spread rapidly across the United States, leading to over 30 million known infections and nearly 570,000 deaths. During this period, shelter-in-place orders have been implemented in most states, requiring colleges and universities to shift to virtual instruction and close their dormitories. These policies may disproportionately impact students lacking family supports, such as foster care alumni, homeless students, and those whose parents are deceased. The purpose of the present study was to explore the experiences of these vulnerable students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method. Data and Sample: All undergraduate students eligible to participate in a campus-based support program at one public university in the northeast were invited to complete a brief demographic questionnaire and a personal interview. The program served foster care alumni and other independent students (e.g., homeless); eligibility was determined by the Office of the Dean of Students based on FAFSA applications. The final sample consisted of 23 students - 15 females and 8 males. Participants` ages ranged from 18 to 23 years-old, about 70% identified as African American or Hispanic, and close to 65% were first generation college students. Measurement: In-depth, semi-structured, qualitative interviews were conducted between December 2020 and March 2021. Participants were asked about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on various domains, such as education, employment, housing, and physical or mental health. Data Analysis: All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and checked for accuracy. A structured thematic analysis was employed, including line by line coding of transcripts and identification of prominent themes based on the codes.

Results. Participants reported significant negative effects from the COVID-19 pandemic, including disruptions in education and employment, financial difficulties, housing instability, loneliness, and exacerbation of prior mental health challenges. Participants highlighted the cascading negative effects of campus closures, as many relied on campus-based supports and services to meet their daily needs. Participants also identified ways in which colleges and universities can better support independent students during emergency situations.

Conclusions and Implications. Foster care alumni and other independent students are uniquely disadvantaged during the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure of college campuses, combined with disruptions of employment and limited access to social and financial resources, may leave these students with a limited ability to navigate emergency situations. Colleges and universities should consider the unique needs of these students when designing pandemic response policies, and attempt to mitigate the detrimental effects of campus closures.