Student swirl is a complex enrollment pattern that includes multiple (three or more) transfers and interruptions in college enrollment, which lengthens time to degree. Higher education scholars and practitioners began noticing and writing about this increased mobility in the 1990’s. This phenomenon continues to confound degree attainment, especially among non-traditional students in the adult learner population.The purpose of this qualitative study was to add to the overall literature about swirling enrollment to help individuals at colleges and universities develop policies and practices to support this population of students in their educational journeys. To gain an understanding of the lived experience of students who exhibited a swirling enrollment pattern, I used Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) human ecology framework to explore issues that prevent students from achieving their educational goals, as well as earning the social benefits, personal growth, and earning potential that accompanies degree attainment. The findings and the implications for practice from this study can guide those who work in higher education who wish to disrupt cycles of student swirl in the adult learner population. Three new patterns were identified which include career swirl, path-changing swirl, and strategic swirl. These typologies along with the recommendations to assist students who exhibit them can help registrars, transfer credit evaluators, admissions officers, and academic advisors recognize and tailor their approach to help these students succeed.
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