1. Spring 2012

2.  This survey came out of a Pres Staff discussion about what makes students successful.  Input from Deans and Student Development Group  Also addressed the questions of PEM (student goals) and College Affairs Committee (student connections)  Delivered via SurveyMonkey  Response rate 31% (107 graduates responded )

3. Goals The majority of graduates came to GCC with the intent of earning an Associates degree.

4. Goals Did your goals change after coming to GCC? YES Changed major/found my passion Influenced by faculty NO Pursue further education “After attending GCC, I realized how important an education really is in today's economy and now I want to further my education and obtain a bachelors degree.” “The amazing professors here immediately influenced my thinking by the way they taught, small classroom settings, and the ways in which students were encouraged to reflect on the world and integrate it into what we learn in the classroom..” “GCC allowed me to fluctuate my schedule and 'mess around' for a semester or two for me to really find what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I changed my major 4-5 times to finally figure out my dream..”

5. 93% of graduates met all or most of their goals at GCC Goals

6. Two thirds of graduates plan to continue at a 4-year institution. Post GCC

7. Graduates most frequently cite their own hard work and investment of time as a key factor in their success. Success factors

8. Additional success factors (cited by <10% of grads)

9. “…I have 2 kids and a full course load - so just really not enough time…” Were you involved in activities/clubs/events on campus? NO YES “I just work full-time and go to school full-time, so I don't have any more time to give.” “I just chose not to participate because of my schedule. But I appreciated that these things existed at GCC.” “I made a lot of friends and helped the community.” “Strong sense of pride and leadership. A sense of belonging” “Some fun, and good conversations…I attend all events for free food, and appreciate this..”

10. Difficult transition, numerous challenges. How would you describe your transition to GCC and your first semester? Smooth transition, no real problems. Average transition, a few problems.

11. Transition challenges “I had a problem with advisors they did not seem to get to know me and understand my goals and help me set up a schedule that worked for me, they did not seem to put their heart into their jobs…” Personal Challenges 3 Advising 6 Academic Workload 5 “the work and classes were harder than I thought they would be.” “I had a horrible mindset. I almost quit after the 1st semester..”

12. Overall satisfaction Would you recommend GCC to a friend or family member?

13. Satisfaction continued…

14. What was the best part of attending GCC? The professors Staff, students & people Feeling of community Small classes Small campus Location Low cost Source: survey comments

15. What would you change to improve the GCC experience? Nothing, it was all good Nursing program Course offerings & schedule Activities Advising Communication Source: survey comments

16. What advice would you give to a new student coming to GCC? Work hard Ask questions/seek help Use resources Set & follow goals GCC is a great place Enjoy yourself Source: survey comments

17. Sharing results?