The Unfinished Journey: The Narratives of Students Halting Graduate Studies

Abstract

There are serious institutional and personal repercussions when graduate studies end, especially when thesis-related difficulties are involved. The stories of five graduate students who left a state university are examined in this study. The study looked at institutional, academic, and personal barriers using narrative-case analysis, which was based on Atkinson's narrative method, McAdams' Life Story Theory, and Clandinin and Connelly's framework. The five major themes followed a story arc. Balancing Aspirations and Realities presented their histories and driving forces. Facing Obstacles and Rising Tension exposed emotional exhaustion, a lack of direction, and self-doubt. Confronting Crisis and Breaking Points marked significant turning points in their journeys. Resilience in the Face of Unresolved Struggles emphasized goal reevaluations, ongoing efforts, or withdrawals. Finding Closure and New Perspectives reflected the participants’ acceptance, remorse, or renewed direction. Semi-structured interview data revealed patterns of divergence as well as common issues, such as advisor mismatches, pandemic disruptions, and institutional rigidity. While some participants showed resiliency and redefined success, others faced isolation and system failures. The study provides insights for institutional reform in graduate education by highlighting the necessity of adaptable policies, sympathetic mentorship, and comprehensive support networks that address structural, emotional, and financial issues.