1. First-Year Experience David Ross, Director

2. Background for FYE Programs ▫Nation-wide the majority of students drop out before completing 15 credits. ▫Research shows frequency of contact with faculty, staff and students is the best predictor of persistence.

3. Factors Associated with Lack of Success in College* 1. difficulty adjusting 2. experiencing academic and social difficulty 3. student expectations and the institutional expectations are incongruent 4. feeling socially isolated * Based on research of Vincent Tinto

4. Components of Successful Programs Advising –clear, consistent, and easily accessible information Programs include academic, social and personal support Students feel they are valued members of the community

5. Bottom Line: Fitting in is critical Greater the student involvement Greater the likelihood the student will persist

6. Title III Impact of Title III Activities ▫7.7% increase in retention from year one to year two ▫12% increase in retention from year one to year two of new HS graduates

7. Goals: To improve retention from year one to year two Ease the transition to campus Build a connection to campus/develop a sense of belonging

8. Overview of Activities Raritan Orientation, Advising, and Registration Session (R.O.A.R.S.) Weeks of Welcome (W.O.W.) Welcome Stations Student Success Programming The College Experience Success Partners Early Alert and Intervention First-Year Advising

9. Where We Are Number of students who attended Orientation ▫Fall 2009 = 700+ ▫Fall 2008 = 326 ▫EOF Orientation The College Experience ▫Record enrollment  EOF  MATH 020 link Veterans

10. A Look Ahead Expand R.O.A.R.S. ▫Develop specialized sessions ▫Addition of on-line component Expand Early Alert ▫Faculty participation First-Year Advising ▫Individualized Academic Plans Assessment ▫Continue Focus Group Discussions ▫Assess our progress