Support Early Success in College Unity College initiatives to improve student retention
Current retention challenges First generation students 2003 – 37%2004 – 38% Each entering class is approximately 70% male. (A statistically at-risk group) Non-selective admissions standards student in SAGE program
Large 3 rd semester attrition rate Statistics: Percent of first-year students that returned that returned 2001 – 57% 2001 – 57% 2002 – 57% 2002 – 57% 2003 – 74% 2003 – 74% 2004 – 61% 2004 – 61%
Programs currently in place Learning Communities -Biology, English Comp. and freshmen seminar -Biology and Mathematics (Algebra/Trig.) Unity Experience - 3 credit course for first-year students - 1 credit seminar for transfers SAGE program - Student Academic Growth Experience - Support to facilitate a successful transition
New strategies and initiatives Academic success course (spring) -for first-year students on academic probation IDEaL Leadership course (spring) - Institute for Developing Leaders Supplemental Instruction - Addressing at-risk freshmen courses
IDEaL Highlights Students are nominated -110 nominations, 67 invites, 55 enrolled - Invitation letters sent to students and parents Winter/Spring Workshop: –The Unity IDEaL: Leadership Workshop –Winter weekend retreat Spring Travel Course: –The Unity IDEaL: Leadership Travel Course
Additional grant initiatives Faculty Feedback Form Student Experience Committee Student Support Team Revision of Advising Handbook Student risk factor sheets NSSE/FSSE survey participation