“I’ve Never Had to Do This on My Own”

Abstract

Receiving an acceptance letter to college can be both exciting and daunting for many students. For some, attending college has been an expectation since birth, but for others they will be the first in their family to attend. This chapter identifies ways to support emerging adults, including advising, mentoring, and coaching as they transition to the college campus and remain to complete their studies. Additional information on the challenges faced by first-generation college students is provided as well. The case study describes the First-Year Success (FYS) Center at Arizona State University. Guiding questions help readers consider how they might increase student retention and success at their own institutions.