Understanding Anticipatory Socialization for New Student Affairs Professionals

The purpose of this study was to develop a deeper understanding of how new student affairs professionals experience the process by which they enter their first position out of graduate school, also referred to as anticipatory socialization. In this constructivist grounded theory study, data were collected from participants who experienced and managed aspects of their anticipatory socialization. The results provide insight on hiring practices, strategies for preparing students for the job market, and provides understanding for new professionals transitioning to professional roles.