Food and Housing Insecurities Among Undergraduate Students: A Case Study Examining Academic and Social Integration

Abstract

This single holistic case study examined how food and housing insecurities impacted the academic and social integration of five undergraduate students at a public regional university. Using Tinto\u27s (1993) student integration theory as a framework, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, food and housing logs, and archival event records. Findings revealed that food and housing insecurities created significant barriers to academic success through stress, concentration difficulties, and class attendance challenges. Socially, students remained engaged through campus events offering free food, but avoided social activities requiring financial expenditure. Some academic departments provided food pantries, though access remained limited. Implications for practice include expanding basic needs resources and reducing stigma around help-seeking behaviors