Perception of Growth Condition in the University from the Perspective of Freshmen Students

Abstract

This study aims to analyze and assess the perceptions that freshmen students recent graduating from high school have towards their adaptation in college, as well as comprehending how this process of transition from high school to college occurs. Thus, a qualitative study was conducted, using semi-structured interviews. Eight students from a public college institution in Brazil participated in this study. Analysis of Content was used in order to analyze the data, which were grouped into semantic categories. The results show that the aspects related to teaching, didacticism and relationship with professors are important to the adaptation process and these three aspects are from interdependent categories. Although the insertion in a different environment was potentially adverse, the students cope this reality as an opportunity for personal growth. Regarding to the perception of the growth condition, the results show that the participants focused in extracurricular and curricular activities offered by the University and not in the affirmative policies.