Abstract
This study explores barriers students face at private, urban, liberal arts universities when accessing food and other basic necessities. Students at three private universities were recruited (n = 1,034). Students received the 2022 Food Access Survey (FAS) distributed via e-mail link. Fifteen open-ended questions were analyzed using qualitative analysis. Four themes emerged: (a) Accessibility and Acceptability: ample and nutritious food; (b) Availability: time constraints influence food needs; (c) Affordability: financial resources for food and other basic necessities; and (d) Accommodation/Additional support: students identify opportunities for universities to address food access. Students shared numerous barriers that negatively affect their academics, health, and wellbeing. This study will help inform university administrators and policymakers about the acute food insecurity experienced by students at private colleges.