From Casa to College: Food Adaptations, Emotional Challenges, and Coping Strategies of Latine Students at a Hispanic-Serving Institution

Publication Date

1-1-2026

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of American College Health

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2026.2714272

Abstract

Objective: This study examined how Latine undergraduates at a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) experience campus food environments and sustain traditional foodways, focusing on eating behaviors, emotions, barriers, supports, and resilience strategies. Participants: Thirty-two Latine students living on or near campus participated. Methods: Six semi-structured focus groups were conducted, and notes were thematically analyzed using deductive and inductive approaches. Results: Participants described shifts from traditional foodways to nontraditional convenience foods, evoking shame and disconnection alongside curiosity and enjoyment. Barriers included limited kitchen space, financial strain, stigma, and isolation. Support included cooking confidence developed through family experiences and peer networks that shared costs, space, and advice. Participant-identified strategies included practical foodway adaptations, more opportunities for communal meals and open dialogue to rebuild trust and challenge stigma. Conclusion: Campus food environments offer HSIs a lever to reduce isolation and support cultural identity, belonging, and other crucial developmental needs of Latine students in emerging adulthood.

Keywords

eating behavior, emerging adulthood, Food insecurity, foodways, hispanic-serving institutions, Latine health, psychosocial factors

Department

Nutrition, Food Science and Packaging

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