Fearless First Year: A Student Guide for College Transition, Success, and Well-Being

Award Winner! Delaware Press Association 2023 Communications Contest - General Nonfiction 2nd Place

‘I wish my High School had done this my senior year!’ - Holly, UC Davis, college sophomore

‘I can really use the stress buster’ - Katherine, college freshman, Davidson

‘Time management is my biggest concern…I will use these techniques in college’ - Evan, High School senior

‘I wish all students would read this before coming to college! I especially liked the chapter on social connections with professors’ - Laura Gasiorowski, PhD, Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship, University of Delaware

'Gina Wilson provides valuable, practical advice for students to help them navigate this very challenging period of their lives which will set them up for success both in college and beyond. And adults reading this book may also learn a few valuable lessons as well. I highly recommend this book for both students and their parents.’ - Rich Daisley, CPA


College acceptance confirms a student's aptitude for the rigor of higher education but is no guarantee of success once there. Between acceptance and graduation, students face countless hurdles. Nearly half of entering students require six years or more to graduate, while 30 percent fail to return for the second year. Too many students enter unprepared for the major life transition from high school to college.

College success requires more than academic prowess. Social, emotional, financial, and life skills are critical. Students must stay focused, manage time, maintain physical and mental health, and engage within the campus community. Those who develop these skills before and during college will thrive. Transition preparation is key.

Fearless First Year is an indispensable handbook for college-bound students to proactively prepare for a smooth transition and college success while also maintaining their well-being. Written by an expert coach with insights from current students as well as checklists and exercises, this guide inspires students to develop and practice behaviors for a Fearless First Year at college and beyond.

Holistic executive coach, consultant, and author of Skills That Build, Gina M. Wilson, MS, has coached students, families, and adults in transition for over ten years. Driven by her passion for understanding the brain and behavior, Gina translates the science of human performance and well-being into actionable behaviors, enabling individuals to thrive using sustainable, evidence-based techniques. Drawing from her background in cognitive psychology and teaching undergraduates, Gina brings a practical perspective and growth mindset to coaching. She coaches students to prepare for the college transition, navigate college life, and develop leadership, communication, well-being, and time management skills. Gina speaks on well-being, leadership, personal growth, and professional development at conferences and corporate events. She obtained coach training through the Center for Coaching Certification and continued her studies at the Institute of Coaching at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate. Gina is the founder of System Strategies Consulting and Coaching, a former college psychology instructor, an experienced software developer, and a healthcare strategist. Gina served as a board member for the Mental Health Association in Delaware and continues to promote mental health awareness. https: //www.ginamwilson.com/