The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the experiences and
perspectives of students who were identified as at-risk during high school and have
transitioned into emergent adulthood. Sources of data included responses from eight
participants, selected via purposeful sampling, through a semi-structured interview. This
in-depth study revealed challenges and barriers the participants experienced during high
school and post-graduation. Three major themes emerged from the study: attitude,
influential relationships, and environment. All participants considered dropping out of
high school due to similar factors such as negative peer influences, family challenges,
mental health, substance abuse, and an overall poor school environment. For all
participants, transferring to the at-risk alternative high school made a positive difference
and allowed them to graduate high school. Findings from this study provide
recommendations for supporting students who are at-risk during high school and as they
transition into emergent adulthood. Opportunities for future research include expanding
the demographics of the participants as well as examining the significance of peer
relationships at an alternative high school