Challenges to the Adaptation to Higher Education in Nursing Undergraduate Students

Abstract

The transition to Higher Education involves significant changes. This study aimed to understand the main challenges reported by students entering the first year of a Bachelor’s and Licentiate in Nursing course at a public university. This is a qualitative research carried out with 78 students who participated in two de reflexão groups, one with freshmen in 2018 (n=38) and another in 2019 (n=40). These meetings were audio-recorded, transcribed and subjected to thematic content analysis. Emerging themes refer to social support, mental health and the high course load. Veteran students can form a significant support network because they have been through similar situations. It is suggested that the challenges narrated in a group can be appreciated collectively, avoiding a position of individual blame. It is recommended that the transition to Higher Education can be reflected by university management, triggering more inclusive and welcoming policies aimed at this public.