Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 5-6-2026
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Business Administration
First Advisor
Rebecca Oliver
Second Advisor
Timothy Yenter
Third Advisor
Jennifer Parsons
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
This thesis examines the academic and social barriers to belonging for transfer students at four-year institutions, with particular attention to the University of Mississippi. The goal is to bring attention to the issues that surround transfer student populations in general by identifying some of the most pressing structural and interpersonal challenges that shape their experiences. A qualitative approach was used, drawing on existing literature, prior unpublished research at the community college level, and reflective analysis to explore themes such as transfer shock, creating and maintaining social networks, and gaps in institutional support. Findings suggest that transfer students often face a compressed transition period that complicates both academic adjustment and social integration, reinforcing barriers to belonging. This study concludes by offering recommendations that students, faculty, staff, and administration at the University of Mississippi, and four-year institutions at large, can adopt to foster more inclusive and supportive environments for transfer students.
This idea stems from the author’s personal experiences and research beginning at the community college level, which focused on stigma identification and dismantling through community outreach and personal advocacy. These experiences informed both the direction and purpose of this thesis, as well as its emphasis on belonging as a critical component of student success. While this work reflects on the author’s personal experiences throughout the transfer process, it also seeks to connect those experiences to broader patterns affecting transfer student populations. Although each transfer journey is unique, the intention of this work is to highlight shared challenges while contributing practical recommendations that can improve institutional practices and support systems moving forward.
Recommended Citation
Jankowsky, Brooke, "Not An Afterthought: Addressing The Academic And Social Challenges That Create Barriers To Belonging For Transfer Students" (2026). Honors Theses. 3533.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3533