Transition from High School to University: The Case of the English Studies Degree Students at Universitat Jaume I

Abstract

Transition from secondary school to university is a vital experience that affects students in very different ways. The first year at the university carries considerable challenges for every student, not only academically but also personally. For those who enrolled in higher education, this becomes a transitional period that essentially marks a distinguishable moment in their lives and in their academic career (Mutch, 2005). Today, access to higher education is much more possible than it was before, due to this fact, institutions are open to a more diverse student body coming from very different backgrounds making this process in some way, harder for all the parties involved, students and institutions. Unfortunately, most students are poorly prepared for this great step in their lives (Soundy, 2016; Chacon, 2015; Swanger, 2016). This adventure requires students to adapt to a new mentality that involves more commitment and responsibility, but in order to make a successful transition, students must be specially accompanied and supported by their institutions. The aim of this study is to observe how this transition process has been for the students enrolled in the Bachelor’s degree in English Studies at Universitat Jaume I. First and second year students were asked to participate in an online survey where they were probed with questions related to their own personal experience and perspective on the process of transition and adaptation to the university. The results revealed that they are adapted and coping well with their studies. However, in spite of this, they would have appreciated having more guidance and information; especially at the beginning.