Bes Liebenberg, Head of the Student Wellness and Leadership Development division in the Department of Residence Affairs and Accommodation at the University of Pretoria (UP), recently served as guest speaker at a conference titled ‘Supporting At-Risk and Struggling Students in Higher Education Institutions’. The event took place in Johannesburg on 24 and 25 July.

In her presentation, Liebenberg provided expert insight into the factors that influence student success, and emphasised the crucial role of student support services in enhancing student throughput and promoting academic excellence.

Meeting basic needs: The foundation of student success

Reflecting on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Liebenberg said that efforts to support students should focus on the bottom two tiers of the model. These tiers, which include basic physiological and safety needs, are essential for students to thrive. Basic needs encompass resources such as safety, food, housing, financial health and overall wellness (physical, psychological and spiritual).

She cited the alarming statistics of a recent study that revealed the extent of basic needs insecurity among students:

• Three in five students experience basic needs insecurity.
• 53% of these students also experience anxiety and depression.
• 42% of students face food insecurity.
• 49% of students struggle with housing insecurity.
• 14% of students experience homelessness.

Liebenberg also quoted a student, who poignantly summarised the situation: “We’re trying our best to better ourselves; we could use all the help and support we can get. The stress is real and has a legitimate impact on our mental health.”

Linking basic needs to well-being and success

To foster student success and retention, Liebenberg said that efforts to meet basic needs must be linked with overall well-being and wellness. Several key factors influence student success in higher education, and the student support services play a pivotal role in addressing these factors.

Financial support

Financial support such as bursaries, loans and assistantships are crucial for students, she indicated. While financial support has an impact on student motivation and attrition, it does not guarantee completion. Affordable tuition is often prioritised over financial concerns, Liebenberg pointed out, suggesting the importance of financial stability in student success.

Mentoring

Mentoring relationships, especially for under-represented students, are vital, Liebenberg said. These relationships help students navigate institutional cultures and expectations, providing encouragement and guidance that can significantly affect their educational and professional development.

Sense of belonging

Liebenberg then turned to yet another element that is crucial for student success – a sense of belonging. This sense extends beyond academia to include social connectedness and mental health. Positive relationships with faculty members and peers can enhance this feeling, leading to better academic and personal outcomes.

Micro-affirmations and micro-aggressions

She also said that addressing micro-aggressions and fostering micro-affirmations are essential for creating an inclusive environment. Words and actions that validate and support students’ identities can significantly impact their retention and success, particularly for under-represented groups.

Imposter syndrome

Imposter syndrome, where individuals feel undeserving of their success, can hinder academic self-efficacy and productivity, Liebenberg pointed out, adding that addressing this phenomenon through support and validation can help students maintain positive self-perceptions and achieve their academic goals.

Access and opportunity for career advancement

Providing opportunities for career advancement, including research and professional development, is essential for student success, she said. Graduate assistantships and support in academic writing and publishing are critical in refining students’ skills to prepare them for their future careers.

Implementing scaffolding practices

To ensure student success, it is important to implement scaffolding supports, Liebenberg shared, taking into account factors such as a student’s indigenous background, socio-economic status, language barriers, geographic location and learning disabilities. Research has shown that secondary factors, such as lack of social capital and increased work and family obligations, can negatively impact the academic journeys of students.

By understanding and addressing the barriers that students face, systemic-level supports can be developed that enhance their experiences and potential for academic success. Student support services play a vital role in this process, fostering a more diverse and inclusive climate in higher education.

Liebenberg concluded her presentation by saying that student support services are instrumental in contributing to student throughput and academic excellence. By focusing on meeting students’ basic needs and providing comprehensive support, an environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed and thrive can be created.