Institutional and network social support during COVID-19: A case study of one university’s students and their support-seeking behaviors

ABSTRACT This case study of one university’s students and their support-seeking behaviors offers an initial explanation of what types of social support students sought during the pandemic and if their needs were met. This study fills a gap in the literature, as it addresses where students actually sought support during this time of crisis, and based on this analysis, we offer applications for how universities can be ready to support students even more effectively the next time an unexpected crisis occurs. Implications for institutional social support services at universities and more accessible opportunities for institutional support are discussed. As universities continue to evolve to meet holistic student needs during this stressful time, the evaluation of students’ access to support is discussed. Thus, this investigation bridges a divide between college students’ COVID-related stress and support services by measuring their support-seeking behaviors during the pandemic.