Journal of College Orientation, Transition, and Retention

Transition from Tribal College to Four Year University

Emergence of Transition Phases During the First Semester After Transfer

Cindy Ann Dell

Richard D. Howard

Kenneth W. Borland Jr.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/jcotr.v8i1.2514

Keywords: Native Americans, transitions, persistence, theory, expectations, apprehension, acclimation, reality, adjustment, discouragement, academic, social, personal, advising, counseling, mentoring, finance

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Abstract

Native American college stuents face unusual and difficult transitions. This grounded theory study provides an exploration of the issues Native American students face in transferring from tribally controlled colleges to a traditionally white university. Using interview data, findings identified specific transitional phases, including Expectations and Apprehension, Acclimation, Reality, and Adjustment and Discouragement. Specific recommendations for further research are also offered.