Transfer Student Success: The Impact of Living Environment

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between transfer student academic success and their living environment. Transfer student populations continue to grow and be a focus of university interest with future enrollment challenges facing rising high school seniors. Previous research indicated that first-year students benefit academically and developmentally from living in a residence hall setting but little research existed investigating if the same benefit exists for transfer students living in on-campus housing. This study aimed to inform policies, programs, and recommendations that support transfer students as they choose a living environment that encourages their academic success. This quantitative study, which was conducted at a four-year university, compared transfer students in a variety of living environments including residence halls, on-campus apartments, or living off campus with their grade point average, retention, and graduation. Findings do not support that a specific type of living environment is more beneficial to a transfer students’ academic success. Proposed solutions include allocating resources towards non-housing related initiatives, conducting further research around the preparedness of transfer students, and exploring if a more tailored living environment to transfer students could benefit these students differently. Keywords: Transfer Students, University Housing, Academic Success