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.
Keywords:
higher education; nursing; student