A transition is an event or non-event that a student attaches significance to, that has a lasting influence on their relationships, routines, assumptions and roles. A non-event refers to events that a student was expecting and preparing for, but did not happen. Non-events are either personal, ripple, resultant or delayed. Transitions can be anticipated (predicted), resultant (caused by the event), or non-events as mentioned above. 

These transitions can be positive or negative in nature and so can lead to growth or decline. 

The student services practitioner has the responsibility to increase support which could include fostering, or providing places to foster the intimate relationships, family units, networks of friends, institutions and communities.