As March ends, some Morgan State University students say the U.S. political climate is affecting their mental health. Several seniors say uncertainty about jobs, costs and policy changes adds stress as graduation approaches.

“As a senior, it is really discouraging and quite scary to see the world that I’m graduating into,” said Danielle Hall, a senior at Morgan State. “The job market is terrible. The cost of living is almost impossible for most entry-level jobs.”

Hall also pointed to division across the country. She said the tone of political discourse adds to her concerns about entering the workforce.

About 35% of surveyed students were seniors. Many linked their worries to career opportunities after graduation. One student questioned whether finishing her degree would lead to meaningful work.

Jocelyn Pellegrino, a graduating senior, plans to pursue a doctorate and teach in secondary education. She said she follows political developments closely while preparing for her career.

“As a graduating senior in STEM, I try to keep up with the political climate to ensure that I will be able to get a good-paying job,” Pellegrino said.

Pellegrino described the political climate as “quite concerning.” She said policy changes could affect opportunities in education and research.

Students also cited artificial intelligence growth, changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and legislation affecting LGBTQIA+ communities. Some said those developments increased uncertainty about the future.

Other students said politics has little effect on their mental health. Naomi Pollard, a sophomore, said she notices political content online but limits its impact.

“I see horrible things on social media about politics, which affects my mood in a minor manner,” Pollard said. “Politics hasn’t affected my family, friends or personal life to drastically affect my mental state.”