Open AccessExploring the Experience of Anxiety Among Final Year Students at University: A Thematic Analysis
Author(s) -
Catriona Keane,
Daniel Waldeck,
Andrew Holliman,
Simon Goodman,
Kubra Choudhry
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
the qualitative report
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2160-3715
DOI - 10.46743/2160-3715/2021.4874
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , anxiety , psychology , qualitative research , medical education , transition (genetics) , higher education , qualitative analysis , pedagogy , semi structured interview , sociology , medicine , political science , social science , biochemistry , chemistry , psychiatry , law , gene
The transition from undergraduate study to a postgraduate career can be an anxiety provoking experience for many students. In this study, we explore the shared experience of five “anxious” undergraduate students as they transition from higher education towards their postgraduate careers. Using a qualitative methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with five female undergraduate students from different courses at a UK university. A thematic analysis revealed two overarching themes: perceived pressure without sufficient support, and concerns about next steps. The findings suggested the final year is emotionally demanding, and students felt as though there was a lack of provision to manage their transition to postgraduate work or study. Possible implications for policymakers are detailed and areas for research are discussed.