This article examines causes of the high rate of attrition of college freshmen during the first few weeks of school and describes a plan for mentorships between successful college students and college-bound secondary seniors prior to entrance into college. In discussing the challenges facing freshmen, the article suggests that they suffer stress due to shock, competition, and independence, and that if they were guided through this transitional time the "sink or swim" approach could be avoided. It also discusses the cultural emphasis on independence which leaves students feeling alone, and is particularly difficult for minority group students who feel they have entered an alien culture. The paper suggests a program that would target college-bound high school seniors in a collaborative mentoring program between colleges and schools. College students would facilitate the transition of college-bound high school seniors from high school to college by assuming the role of teacher, guide, counselor, role model, and friend. Through participation in concurrent courses offered by the community high school and nearby colleges, mentors and proteges might address topics such as career options and majors, university procedures, student life, student support services, library orientation, student skills and time management, test taking strategies, and common problems of freshmen. (Contains 24 references.) (JB)