Unlike Generation 1.5 or adolescent ESL students, Generation 1 students do not attend U.S. K-12 English as a Second Language (ESL) and often lack linguistic capital necessary for college success, thereby stalling their pursuit of the American Dream. This qualitative research examines a previously understudied group's transition from ESL. Generation 1 students are adult, immigrant, English language learners entering American higher education. As such, they face unique challenges unaddressed by research on ESL, international, or non-traditional students. Interviews with community college Generation 1 students, advisors and instructors illuminate Generation 1 perceptions of transitioning into college and highlight problematic differences between Generation 1 students' perceived strengths and instructor expectations. The research supports preparation of adult ESL students transitioning into college.