ӣ��Ӱ��

Topic

Promoting Well-being for Students

School of Public Administration

Date & location

• Wednesday, December 10, 2025

• 10:00 A.M.

• Virtual Defence

Reviewers

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Barton Cunningham, School of Public Administration, ӣ��Ӱ�� (Supervisor)

• Dr. Kimberly Speers, School of Public Administration, UVic (Member) 

External Examiner

• Dr. Lucina Brown, Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership Studies, UVic 

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Steve Lindsay, Department of Psychology, UVic 

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to gain a better understanding of how academic and non-academic pressures affect student well-being and how these pressures influence their academic performance. A literature review was conducted to explore the meanings of stress and student well-being, the effects of stress and stress management, and university wellness supports available to students. From the literature review, a conceptual framework was created to capture academic and non-academic pressures, motivations and demotivations, and faculty and peer support. This framework was applied to the interview guide. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with current and former university students to gather insight into their academic and non-academic needs. Interview data were analyzed to identify key themes from participant responses. Participants described several challenges and supports they encountered during their time in university, including heavy workloads, financial pressures, and the value of peer and personal relationships. The study highlights the importance of understanding the diverse stressors students face and offers recommendations to improve institutional support and promote student well-being. 

Key words: student well-being, stress, academic engagement, academic pressures, university resources