Perceptions of the Transition Process From Senior High School to First-Year Medical School at Chiang Mai University

Introduction and aim The transition from high school to university can present various challenges for students, including adapting to new educational systems, cultural settings, and financial responsibilities. These changes often lead to feelings of anxiety and stress, potentially hindering students' success. To facilitate a smoother transition, educational institutions should offer support services such as counseling, guidance, and financial aid. This study aimed to explore the transition experiences of first-year medical students at Chiang Mai University, Faculty of Medicine, in the 2023 academic year. Materials and methods A questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale was employed to gather insights into students' concerns during this pivotal period, with the research conducted within the first month of the academic year, focusing on aspects such as environmental adjustments, financial pressures, social interactions, and academic challenges. Results Students are most anxious about upcoming examinations, with a rating of 3.66, closely followed by concerns regarding lecture content at 3.49. Regional differences reveal that students from outside Northern Thailand exhibit heightened levels of concern in various areas, including social integration, adapting to new environments, forming new friendships, understanding lectures, preparing for exams, and academic performance. Discussion The transition from high school to medical school can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience. Academic achievement is critically important in how students perceive the varied obstacles they face. Hence, it is of utmost importance to develop interventions that specifically target the enhancement of academic performance and psychological well-being to ensure their success. Conclusion It is clear that students, particularly those from outside Northern Thailand, experience heightened anxiety about exams and challenges in adapting to new academic and social environments. These findings demonstrate the need for targeted interventions that address both academic stress and psychological well-being. Specifically, support systems focusing on exam preparation, social integration, and mental health are essential to help students navigate the transition more smoothly. By implementing these targeted strategies, we can improve the overall transition experience from high school to medical school, especially for students facing regional and environmental challenges.