<![CDATA[The transition to university often triggers academic and psychological stress for first-year students, necessitating social support as a coping strategy. However, support services are not always accessed due to communication barriers. This study aims to explore in depth the essence of interpersonal communication competence within the seeking support process among first-year students. A qualitative research approach employing a phenomenological method was used. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with eight first-year students selected via purposive sampling, complemented by data triangulation techniques. The findings reveal three main themes: (1) Openness serves as stimulus for support seeking, (2) Empathy and supportiveness in peer interactions create a safe space that alleviates emotional burdens, and (3) Communication apprehension and the fear of negative stigma act as major obstacles, leading students to fully embrace their problems on their own. The study concludes that interpersonal communication competence is a crucial survival skill. The availability of campus support facilities cannot function optimally unless new students are equipped with the interpersonal capabilities needed to access them. These findings highlight the urgent need for interpersonal communication skills training starting from the campus orientation period to dismantle stigma and build a responsive ecosystem.]]>
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