What It’s Really Like Starting College With Diabetes

The first year of college comes with a learning curve for everyone—but for students living with diabetes, it can mean navigating a whole new level of independence and responsibility.

From managing blood sugar between classes to figuring out dining halls, late nights and new social environments, the adjustment isn’t just academic; it’s also deeply personal.

For the Beyond Scholars Class of 2025, that transition is well underway. After completing their first semester, these students have experienced firsthand the wins, challenges and everyday realities of university life whilst living with diabetes. 

New Routines, new realizations

“At home, there were more built-in routines and reminders. Now, I have to be intentional about monitoring my blood sugar, keeping snacks with me, and planning around classes, long study sessions and walking across campus. I’ve also realized how much stress and lack of sleep can affect my numbers.” —Hope M., Northern Arizona University

“Before coming to college, I was the micromanager of T1D. Whenever my blood sugars go above 150 mg/dl, I usually correct with a unit or two. I was obsessed with my A1C and time in range. Coming to college, I have realized that chasing these numbers and perfect A1C becomes difficult with long periods of studying, the plenty of food options, and the cortisol spikes with stress.”—Jordan C., Harvard

Campus lessons learned

“I feel like I was very restrictive when it came to managing my diabetes before college. I planned my meals according to my high school’s bell schedule, ate the same “safe” foods every day, and counted carbs with measuring cups. However, I wish I had realized that diabetes management is never a linear process. At USC, I no longer have access to a kitchen, and I’ve been pushed to experiment at the dining halls and nearby restaurants. I’ve adopted a “trial and learning” mindset over time, and while my blood sugar has had its ups and downs over the past semester, I’ve gotten to expand my food palate and connect with friends through a variety of cuisines. I used to consider myself a picky eater, but now I’m more open to trying new things.”—Mary Anjanette M., USC

“I wish someone had told me that the stress of college would greatly affect my blood sugars. There have been many times when I am trying to study for hours, but it is not feasible with diabetes. My glucose would spike, and sitting for an extended period of time did not help my blood sugar or insulin sensitivity.”—Jordan C., Harvard

Support system 101

“I have an app called Sugarmate, which syncs to my CGM data and allows me to share it with emergency contacts. There’s a feature that calls my mom whenever I go below 55 mg/dL, and I think it’s really convenient because she can wake me up from an overnight hypo in case I end up sleeping through my CGM notifications. Another support system I have is my roommate. I taught her how to use nasal glucagon and the signs of a diabetic emergency. It was honestly a very casual conversation, but it’s so reassuring for me to know there’s someone who knows how to help me out in Los Angeles during an emergency.” —Mary Anjanette M., USC

“I’ve let close friends know the signs to look for and what to do if I’m not responding well. That said, I try to stay proactive so I don’t have to rely heavily on others. Having a support system makes a difference, even if I’m the one doing most of the daily management.”—Hope M., Northern Arizona University

Meet the Beyond Scholars Class of 2025

In 2025, Beyond Type 1 awarded $10,000 scholarships to 10 students living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes as they begin their college or trade school journeys. In addition to financial support, each recipient receives six months of wellness coaching through 

Risely Health, designed to help them navigate this transition with confidence and care.

We’re proud to introduce the full list of 2025 recipients:

• Julius G. from San Marcos, California
• Jordan C. from Mountville, Pennsylvania
• Tristan B. from Starkville, Mississippi
• Keelan W. from Columbus, Ohio
• Kaneisi M. from Upland, California
• Hope M. from Snowflake, Arizona
• Criss H. from Lineville, Alabama
• Ziya J. from Red Oak, Texas
• Alan M. from Rio Rico, Arizona
• Mary Anjanette M. from Lake Forest, California

Looking ahead

Beyond Type 1 is honored to support students who are shaping the future of the diabetes community. While additional Beyond Scholars application cycles are not open at this time, we remain deeply committed to uplifting youth voices and expanding access to education, resources and support for people living with diabetes worldwide.

As Beyond Scholars moves into the next chapter, the focus remains the same: reducing barriers, meeting real needs and investing in the next generation of leaders.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Beyond Type 1 extends a heartfelt thank you to Beyond Scholars sponsors Lilly, Dexcom and Embecta for helping make this program possible.

Students seeking additional college scholarship opportunities can explore current options here.