Finding Their Place: Higher education edition
Going to university or college is a major milestone for students and their families, marking a time of change, excitement, and new independence. We’ve gathered both qualitative and quantitative insights to understand what they really need from their institutions during this pivotal time.
This report draws on the sentiments of both students and parents during the summer before higher education and the first two months of university or college, uncovering key insights to guide institutional support.
It highlights opportunities to strengthen connections with students and families, align expectations and preparedness, and position your institution as genuinely supportive of the real student experience.
1,290 parents and guardians of first-year undergraduate students completed our parents' survey
This report uncovers surprising, strategic insights that challenge traditional assumptions, highlighting where student and parental expectations diverge
Key findings
69% of students are looking forward to studying a subject they enjoy in more detail
71% of students reported making friends as their top concern when starting university
Finding Their Place: Higher education edition
Do we truly understand the needs, considerations, feelings, and behaviours of students-to-be, and their parents or guardians, as they transition into higher education?
This report delves into their shared experiences and highlights where student and parental expectations diverge. It explores not only what they are thinking and feeling, but why, from hopes and excitement to nerves and uncertainty. By exploring perspectives, we uncover how feelings and actions align, differ, and influence one another, helping institutions identify new opportunities to offer timely and meaningful support.
- Support should come in many shapes and sizes.
- Preparation starts early but support doesn’t always keep pace.
- Academic anticipation brings excitement... and nerves.
Turning Insight into Impact: A strategic action plan for higher education
Alongside our report, this recommendations document takes the findings from our research and translates them into clear, practical actions. It outlines five key opportunity areas where universities and colleges can improve support and engagement, providing practical guidance to help teams build stronger connections with students and families during the transition to higher education.
What’s inside?
- Differentiate your institution.
- Build earlier, stronger connections.
- Close ‘expectation and preparedness gaps’.
- Position your institution as one that listens deeply to students’ real experiences.