Conference: American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO)

Presentation Type: Presentation

Authors: Werntz, A., Hareli, M., Jasman, M., Juarez, A., Lamont, M., Cherry, J., & Rhodes, J.

About: This mixed-methods study examined how first- and second-year college students describe their own biggest challenges during the transition to college, with a focus on how those challenges differ across institution type (PWI vs MSI) and generational status (first-gen and continuing-gen). The research found that beyond academic hardships, financial strain and mental health emerged as students’ most pressing barriers, with meaningful variation between students at minority-serving institutions and predominantly white institutions.