With the looming Great Depression plaguing the U.S. economy, Friends University students were also experiencing financial hardship. The number of students who held part time jobs increased. Out of 175 freshman enrolled that year, 76 had employment. Out of 98 sophomores, 58 worked. Out of 64 juniors, 39 worked.

By 1934, as the Great Depression continued to sweep over the nation, fewer students were attending Friends, faculty salaries were cut, and debt was growing.