Attending university is supposed to be a very challenging experience which could change life-course for
students, providing real satisfaction. However, many studies (Tinto, 1993, 1996; Martin Jr., Swartz, & Madson,
1999; Ackermann & Morrow, 2007-2008; Chang et al., 2007) indicate that there are a large number of students
who are unable to fulfill their obligations and complete their studies. Tinto’s 1996 study showed that 40% of all
four years students from America failed to earn a degree and an important proportion - 57% from dropouts - left
to the start of their second year. First year seems to be the most critical for college adaptation because of the big
numbers of possible adjustment difficulties it can generate. The review of the adjustment literature reveals
numerous relevant constructs linked with university/college adjustment, like anxiety, depression, stress
vulnerability, anger, mood, mental illness, indicative for negative adaptation. All of these are counterbalanced by
good psychological adjustment, domain satisfaction, ability to develop new coping strategies, a better sense of
ego functioning (self-efficacy, self esteem), and well-being, indicative for positive adaptation.