Mental Health in the Transition to College: Experiences of Six Low-Income, High-Achieving Students

Abstract

This study examined the mental health issues of low-income, high-achieving undergraduate students, a largely overlooked population in mental health research. Study participants provided in-depth reports across their first semester of college through interviews and semiweekly audio-diary transcripts. Factors related to race, community, money, and access to counseling services were the major determinants of students' college experiences and mental health. Intensive case studies of six students raise implications for student affairs and counseling centers.