The Tension Behind Retention A Look at Administrative Efforts to Keep Students at MSU

With nearly 30 percent of freshman leaving annually, MSU has struggled with retention rates for many years. But retention rates have been on the rise, up 2 percent from 2008 to 2009, perhaps due to a set of programs designed to aid students in making the transition to college.

Throughout the last few years, many of the offices on campus have worked together in an attempt to increase retention rates, particularly among freshman. With the inception of the new "Office of Student Success," these programs are becoming more organized and available to students.

"We are helping students find a home at MSU," said Erika Swanson, Assistant Dean of Students and First Year Initiative coordinator. "We really want to give them options."

Jayme Feyhl-Buska

Full Story: http://www.exponent.montana.edu/2011/03/tension-behind-retention