A Portrait of Five Undergraduate Students Who Serve as Caregivers While Taking University Courses

The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics specific to adults who are caregivers while taking classes from an institution of higher education. We recruited 5 university attending adults through a subject pool and through announcements in various classes through the university setting. Measures on depression, burden, daily activities, and general background were used to assess the experiences of the participants. Self-reports indicated high levels of selfefficacy with regard to the care process, minimal depression, low to moderate levels of burden, and high resiliency among those surveyed. These results indicate while registered as a full time student (12 credits or more) daily activities remain high, while overall levels for depression and reported burden remain relatively low. This group of providers suggests a desire to continue with current responsibilities of providing care to the family member. More intensive analysis is needed to explain the resilient nature of this group. Degree seeking may provide a buffer from the traditional burden and depression often experienced by other caregivers who are not attending college