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This chapter is part of a book that examines the generic abilities that have become so important in determining what makes both a good employee and a successful learner. It is argued that the process of acquiring these abilities is a lifelong process. In this chapter, the author extends the context in which the term 'graduate attributes' is used to include a university preparation course, the competency-based Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC). The course was developed and delivered by [Technical and Further Education] TAFE, the largest provider of vocational education in New South Wales, Australia. Graduate attributes refer to generic skills, knowledge and attitudes developed by undergraduates during their university studies. Drawing on the author's four year study of adult learners, the discussion focuses on students' perceptions and interactions with the graduate attributes. The chapter comprises four sections. The first looks at the learning context and the nature of the course in which the study was conducted. It describes the graduate attributes that underpin the course, the profile of the participating students, and reasons why students returned to formal education. The next section examines the graduate attributes identified by students as essential in their transition to university. This is followed by a look at teacher attributes identified by students as key to student acquisition of graduate attributes. The final section highlights the destinations of the students on completing the course and the changes to their identities resulting from their acquisition of graduate attributes.