The problem addressed in this narrative inquiry study was that though transfer high schools' programs were designed to improve at-risk students' academic and future life outcomes there are aspects of the processes that have not been assessed. The purpose of this qualitative narrative inquiry study was to explore the narratives of transfer high school graduates regarding the risk factors and protective factors that influenced their academic and life successes. The theoretical framework that informed this study were Bronfenbrenner's bioecological theory and Casillas' ecological-transactional model of resilience. Purposive snowball sampling was utilized to obtain a sample of five New York City transfer high school graduates. The interview protocol was developed using a single overarching question to induce the narrative. Two interviews were conducted. The interview transcripts were coded manually to establish broad categories and hierarchical order. Then, NVivo was utilized to perform word frequency analysis, thematic analysis, and word cloud analysis for the raw data, code categories, and research questions. Findings indicated that trauma, mental health struggles, lack of support, isolation, and academic challenges were major risk factors that influenced transfer high school students' academic and life outcomes. Further, the key protective factors enabling transfer students to overcome challenges and succeed academically were caring relationships, a keen sense of community, external motivation, structural supports, guidance, and confidence building. Ultimately, this study demonstrated that with protective factors and positive learning environments, at risk transfer high school students can overcome challenges and fulfill their potential. The study informs stakeholders that academic achievement is possible for this population given proper multidimensional support. This study provided critical insights into creating nurturing, responsive school environments that enable at-risk students to thrive, not just survive. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]