Retention rates of college students has continued to be a large concern for those associated with higher education (Habley et al., 2004). A successful high school to college transition experience has been identified as a key factor in a student's decision to remain in college and persist to graduation (Broglia, et al, 2016). Furthermore, more students with mental health challenges are entering higher education settings (Bewick, et al, 2008).The intent of this study was to describe the college transition experience of these students through the lens of the theoretical framework from Schlossberg's (1984) transition theory. This theory focuses on how individuals cope with transition and provides a framework through which to study how students with mental health needs experience their transition to a college setting and how this experience is impacted by a campus environment. Therefore, this study provided one understanding of a successful high school to college transition experience and elements that support the experience for students. Because the high school to college transition is a significant experience that impacts retention, it is essential to better understand the lived experiences of students going through this transition (Schlossberg, 1984). The findings of this study shed light on how this population experienced the high school to college transition. Additionally, the findings provided an additional context to further impact college support and mental health providers at the college level in order to develop or improve the high school to college transition programs for this unique population of students. The central research questions which guided study included: How do first year undergraduate college students who self-identify with mental health challenges, perceive their transition into college? What are the elements that contribute to a successful transition for first year undergraduate college students who self-identify with mental health challenges? How do first year undergraduate college students who self-identify with mental health challenges perceive the existing (and needed) support structures at a small private university, as it relates to their transition? [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.]