54
' I think universities should make students aware that they aren ’ t necessarily going to graduate and walk straight into their dream job and that ’ s ok . I think they should also focus on what skills and experiences they have gained outside of their academic studies and how these life experiences can be used in their careers .'
Staffordshire University Psychology and Criminology Graduate
Most participants felt that a simple welfare check from universities once students had graduated would have been extremely beneficial . Previous research states that universities need to do more to support students with the transition out of university . 106 A welfare check which aims to check-in on students regarding their health , wellbeing and graduation plans could improve post-graduation wellbeing by informing graduates of the services that are available to them and where they can seek help . As one Graduate articulated it :
' I think even things as little as an email from universities just asking if you ’ re ok would go such a long way . I don ’ t think support from student services should just stop as soon as you graduate [...] universities should definitely have a responsibility to check on their alumni .'
Keele University Economics and Finance Graduate
Conclusion
As a result of the completion of the literature review and empirical research with 9 recent graduates , it is evident that graduating from university can considerably affect graduates ’ mental wellbeing and social media plays a significant role in this . Graduating from university affected participants ’ mental wellbeing due to a number of factors , including job insecurity , lack of work experience , social media comparisons ( compare and despair attitudes ), changes in living arrangements , financial instability , and career choice .
Whilst previous research states that universities need to do more to better support their students , this research is unclear as to what exact support is needed . 107 Findings from this study contribute to knowledge regarding what support students would like to receive from their university , such as ,
106
Byrom and Reino , Graduate Mental Wellbeing in the Workplace , p . 4 .
107
Ibid .