Semester Break Survey Reveals Ongoing Student Concerns

The Office of Undergraduate Education has shared results from its Semester Break Check-In Survey, which was administered to all undergraduate students on the Twin Cities campus December 17, 2020 through January 15, 2021. Nearly 11,000 students participated in the six-question survey.

Among other questions, the survey asked students about their most significant concerns for the spring semester. For all students, top responses included concerns about motivation with their classes, doing well academically, managing stress, and connecting with friends. For undergraduate degree-seeking students, these same concerns surfaced, but at a higher percentage.

Results have been shared with various campus groups, including undergraduate colleges/schools, which received a customized report for their respective students. The reports include information on student demographics, and are meant as a starting point for conversations within colleges and programs to ensure that the University is providing the best possible experience for its students.

The Office of Undergraduate Education strongly encourages anyone to share available resources with students to help them be as successful as possible this spring semester. Resources include Academic Success Centers, Effective U, Stress Check-Ins, Student Counseling Services, Nutritious U Food Pantry, and Financial Wellness Counseling.

Learn more about the full survey in the University Summary Report.

For more information contact Steven Hawks, director of undergraduate assessment in the Office of Undergraduate Education, at sjhawks@umn.edu.