Date
5-2026
Document Type
Capstone Project (Campus-Only Access)
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Department
Human Development & Family Science
Abstract
High school seniors often experience multiple stressful transitions that can contribute to developmental and emotional challenges as they prepare to enter college life. Without appropriate support, chronic or unmanageable stress during this transition may increase vulnerability to maladaptive coping strategies, emotional dysregulation, and academic difficulties, particularly for students with prior adverse experiences. Learning how to recognize and manage stress before entering college is critical, as effective stress-management skills can serve as protective factors that support emotional well-being, identity development, and academic persistence during emerging adulthood. This capstone adopts a prevention-focused approach by preparing high school seniors to understand stress responses, increase self-awareness, and develop cognitive reappraisal techniques to balance stress before negative outcomes emerge. By introducing stress-prevention skills prior to the college transition, students may be better equipped to navigate academic pressures, social changes, and increased independence in a new environment. In order to promote stress awareness, and developmental preparedness for the transition to college, I have developed a workshop for high school seniors in the Sport Professions And Recreation Career Academy(SPARC) at Monterey High School in Monterey, California.
Recommended Citation
Bernardino Jimenez, Elizabeth, "Preparing for the Transition to College: A Stress-Prevention Capstone for High School Seniors" (2026). Capstone Projects and Master's Theses. 2143.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes_all/2143