Adaptation to college by first year university students (N=71), who were exposed to orientation programs which varied the amount of perceived competence and perceived control felt by the student in interpersonal problem situations, was investigated. Skills taught in the four treatment conditions were the basics of assertive behavior, self-confidence development, and relaxation training. Adjustment of the treatment and baseline comparison subjects was monitored with questionnaires, interviews with a trained clinician, and grade point averages. Subjects' evaluation of the skills taught indicated that only those who received both the competence and control enhancing interventions found more places to use the skills and felt more confident about using the skills. Independent assessments of social adjustment made 10-12 weeks after the sessions and improvements in grade point average also showed the superiority of the competence enhanced-control group. The other treatment groups fared no better than the baseline comparison groups. (Author)