• The W-Curve highlights the stages of transition that many first years experience during their first year at university. Originally based on research with study abroad students, Zeller and Mosier (1993) found that the model can be applied to first years more generally.
• Universities such as Edinburgh, York and Berkeley use this model to help staff, students and parents understand the first year journey. The ups and downs of this model are normal: understanding this as part of the student journey can help both personal tutors and students navigate first year. However, everyone's journey is different and the stages themselves are not fixed.
• Some students may also experience one stage longer than another. Nonetheless, the phases highlighted are generally experienced by many students during their adjustment to university life.

The W-Curve model outlines a first years students experiences as the below phases.

1. Honeymoon 

Begins pre-arrival through to the second or third week of term. Generally, there is a sense of excitement and optimism alongside their new sense of freedom, although homesickness may be mixed in.

Tip: Use positive and inclusive language to build sense of belonging: "Congratulations, we're so glad that you're here".

2. Culture shock

Midway through semester one: culture shock as the newness of university wears off, realisation hits and expectations of university life and shared accommodation are perhaps not quite met. Routine tasks – such as shopping, haircuts – can become problematic chores. Homesickness may also increase.

Tip: Emphasise that transition into university does not happen in a week. Useful resources include the Big White Wall and Peer to Peer mentoring.

3. Initial adjustment

Towards the end of semester one, there is an upward swing as students gain confidence in handling the academic and social environment of university. A sense of routine and normalcy is restored.

Tip: Praise good feedback and progression. Highlight resilience so far.

4. Re-adjustment

Typically during and after the Christmas break. Students feel caught between two worlds: the new university environment is still not as comfortable as home used to be, and home is now not as familiar as it once was. Doubts regarding university, choice of course and career may surface.

Tip: Highlight that just because they may be struggling doesn't mean they don't belong. King's Student Union (KCLSU) and King's BeActive are useful resources on offer.

5. Acceptance & Integration

Students develop a real sense of belonging and connection to the university and their peers, and establish a more balanced and realistic view of university.

Tip: Have them reflect on their first year. How can they improve? What are their goals for the second and third years?

The W-Curve model source: Journal of College and University Student Housing, Volume 23, No. 2, 1993. Culture Shock and The First‐ Year Experience by William J. Zeller and Robert Mosier