The phenomenon of student movement between higher education institutions received considerable attention due to its widespread occurrence and impact on academic trajectories. While extensive research focused on vertical transfer, such as transitions from community colleges to four-year institutions, less research exists concerning lateral transfer, involving shifts between institutions at similar academic levels. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the factors influencing lateral transfer, specifically from private four-year colleges to public four-year institutions. The COVID-19 pandemic heightened interest in this understudied area, with indications of increased lateral transfers in its aftermath. Leveraging data from Fall 2022, this research investigates the reasons for this trend shift and delves into the motivations prompting students to transition from private to public institutions. By shedding light on the dynamics of lateral transfer, particularly amidst post-pandemic enrollment and retention challenges, this study seeks to offer valuable insights for both private and public institutions striving to improve student retention and success.