Abstract
Transfer students typically have a distinct college experience from those who enter universities as first-year students. It is important to consider the differences between transfer students and the traditional student population, as these differences may significantly impact their adaptation to a new university. This research draws on interviews with five students who transferred to a faith-based private liberal arts university in the West from other institutions. These interviews revealed that transfer students go through three stages of the encounter phase of socialization: (1) barriers to integration, (2) adjustments to choices and expectations surrounding community and isolation, and (3) empowerment from support and resources. Findings revealed that mentor-like figures, organized events specific to transfer students, and programs to guide transfer students make a significant contribution to their adaptation to a new university through their communicative experiences.
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Courtney Hook
Recommended Citation
Carter, Kampton
(2026)
"“We Still Exist”: Communication Experiences Among Transfer Student Socialization,"
Pepperdine Journal of Communication Research: Vol. 14, Article 5.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/pjcr/vol14/iss1/5
