Straight from Campus: What Students Need to Thrive

What do North Carolina college students really need to succeed and thrive? In this Shine Story, real students speak candidly about their lived experiences, the barriers they face, and the choices they navigate every day. From academic pressures to financial strain to the search for meaningful support, they offer honest insights into what college life looks like behind the scenes. While each North Carolina campus is unique, common themes emerge: what students need to sustain themselves, stay successful, and truly flourish. These students not only share their challenges, but also their ideas and suggestions for making college life more supportive and achievable. Tune in to hear North Carolina students have their say, and learn what it takes to help them thrive. 

This recording is produced by Institute for Family, using interviews recorded by StoryCorps.