Numerous studies suggest that most college students consume inadequate amounts of fruits and vegetables. In turn, such poor dietary habits predispose collegians to develop obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Fruit and vegetable intake provides psychological benefits throughout the lifespan; reduces the risks for heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer; and assists with weight management and the prevention of type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the possible barriers to adequate fruit and vegetable intakes among collegians in rural West Virginia. As most studies have examined urban students, the proposed study will fill a gap in the literature by examining rural students. By identifying and clarifying these issues, the study may inform school administrators about ways to promote fruit and vegetable consumption among college students, including methods of nutrition education and means to increase the availability of fruits and vegetables. In turn, students who receive nutrition education may change their diets to manage weight and decrease the risks of heart disease and cancer, as West Virginia is a medically underserved region. Previous studies have examined the food environment, social influences, time, price, the lack of knowledge and skills, availability of cooking facilities and equipment, and seasonal influences as barriers to intake. In contrast, nutrition education appeared to increase fruit and vegetable intake among collegians. Moreover, nontraditional, traditional, and international students have different experiences with food. College students often experience stressful lifestyles and have low levels of physical activity, and poor coping skills. Collegians may experience dissatisfaction with the cafeteria and make unhealthy food choices, including low fruit and vegetable intakes. The proposed qualitative study will utilize the generic approach and individual interviews. The principal investigator will recruit participants by posting flyers on campus and collaborating with professors to announce the study at the beginning of instructional periods. The principal investigator audio recorded and transcribed all of the interviews and examined the data to uncover themes. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]