Thriving through transitioning: unravelling the interplay of transitional challenges and adjustments into university

Abstract

First-year students encounter a plethora of challenges upon entering university. However, little is known about how they adjust and work through these challenges during the transition phase. This study investigates the relationships among transitional challenges, well-being, help-seeking, and students’ adjustments to the university by combining the variable- and person-centered approaches. Data were collected from 710 Hong Kong first-year university students. We employed structural equation modeling (variable-centered approach) and latent profile analysis (person-centered approach) to analyze the data. Results showed that socio-emotional challenges, academic challenges, and coping were negatively related to students’ adjustment to university. Three profiles emerged for students’ transitional challenges and adjustments: ‘maladaptive’, ‘average’, and ‘adaptive’ learners. This study underscores the significance of considering students’ perceived challenges to promote a smooth transition to university life.