Just Released:

Shoring Up Retention With First-Year Programs

First-year programs are now not only pluses for recruiting new college students, but essential for retention. Students who feel they belong on campus and who see a clear trajectory forward are more likely to return the following year and ultimately graduate.


In The First-Year Experience, learn how projected enrollment declines have colleges intensifying their efforts to retain the students they already have — through orientation, learning communities, and first-year seminar programs.

  • The needs of different student populations, including first-generation, adult, commuter, and online students.

  • Ways to help students interact more with peers, including those of different backgrounds and beliefs. 

  • How to incorporate health and wellness programming in ways that encourage students' participation.

  • Ideas for getting the support you need from colleagues and leaders across your institution.