Problems faced by Pacific Island students at university in New Zealand: Some effects on academic performance and psychological wellbeing

We examined problems faced by a non random sample of 61 students from Pacific Island nations attending university in New Zealand, and the relations between these problems and social support, academic performance and psychological wellbeing. Major findings are that: (a) problems are inversely associated with academic performance and psychological wellbeing; (b) social support is positively associated with psychological wellbeing; (c) the relation between social support and academic performance is not significant; (d) there is no evidence of an interaction between social support and problems. Despite a number of limitations, the findings have implications for personal wellbeing and academic enjoyment of university life among Pacific Island students. The results highlight the challenges facing those involved in university education who are concerned with developing appropriate support mechanisms and intervention strategies which promote both enjoyment and success in tertiary study for Pacific Island students.