In this episode co-hosts Jared Tippets and Eric Kirby sit down with Dr. Anne Van Der Karr from Rutgers University - Newark to talk about retention strategies on her campus.  This episode was recorded at the National Symposium on Student Retention in early November 2024.

First-generation college students make up about one-third of all college enrollments in the U.S., yet they often face unique challenges that can impact their success. From financial struggles to navigating unfamiliar academic environments, these trailblazers often find themselves underserved and overlooked.

In this episode, we delve into the realities of being a first-generation student, including the academic, social, and cultural hurdles they encounter. We'll explore how institutions can better support these students through tailored programs, intentional outreach, and meaningful mentorship.

You’ll hear about our own “First to Fly” initiative, where we focus on increasing retention and persistence for first-gen students through:
-Peer and faculty mentoring tailored to first-gen needs.
-Academic workshops and study groups to build critical skills.
-Financial literacy and scholarship guidance.
-Building a sense of community through events and outreach.
-Career and internship support for long-term success.

Join us as we share strategies, stories, and actionable ideas to foster a campus culture where first-generation students feel valued, supported, and empowered to soar.

In this episode, Eric Kirby sits down with Rusty Pettus from the University of Alabama to talk about retention strategies on his campus.  This episode was recorded at the National Symposium on Student Retention in early November 2024.

The COVID-19 pandemic created immense financial challenges for college students, from job loss and housing instability to increased expenses for food and technology. In this episode, we explore how SUU launched the T-Bird Strong campaign to support students facing these hardships.

Discover how this grassroots initiative rallied alumni, donors, and community members to contribute small, meaningful donations that helped students overcome emergencies like food insecurity, homelessness, and medical needs. Learn how this ongoing fund provides a safety net for students in crisis, ensuring they can persist in their studies and achieve their academic goals.

This inspiring story of collective impact shows how even $5 can make a world of difference for students in need. Tune in to find out how your institution can create a similar campaign to support its community!

In this episode co-hosts Jared Tippets and Eric Kirby sit down with Stephanie Merritt and Susan Goldsmith from Tulsa Community College to talk about retention strategies on their campus.  This episode was recorded at the National Symposium on Student Retention in early November 2024.

In this episode, we tackle a growing challenge in higher education: student "ghosting." Just as the term applies to dating, it’s showing up in the admissions process, where students indicate plans to enroll but silently disappear. We explore how tracking "Signs of Life"—key behaviors like submitting deposits, securing housing, or communicating with advisors—can help institutions predict which students are truly coming.

Learn how this data-driven approach aids admissions teams in adjusting recruitment strategies, improves budget forecasting, and reduces melt. Plus, discover how proactive outreach keeps students engaged and on track for matriculation. Don’t miss this insightful look into bridging the communication gap and improving enrollment success!

Co-hosts Jared Tippets & Eric Kirby sit down with Monika Rohde and Mohammed Moizuddin from New York Institute of Technology to talk about retention strategies on their campus.  This episode was recorded at the National Symposium on Student Retention in early November 2024.

Transitioning to college can be overwhelming, but well-crafted new student checklists can make all the difference. In this episode, we discuss how institutions can create tailored checklists for incoming freshmen, transfer students, and returning sophomores to guide them through essential tasks like registering for classes, securing housing, and planning their finances.

We’ll share tips for balancing critical information with usability, leveraging peer mentors to provide personalized support, and ensuring every student feels prepared for their college journey. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or a new student yourself, this episode is packed with practical advice to start the semester off right!

Co-hosts Jared Tippets & Eric Kirby sit down with Dr. Danae Romrell from Brigham Young University-Idaho to talk about retention strategies on her campus.  This episode was recorded at the National Symposium on Student Retention in early November 2024.

In this episode, we explore how virtual groups and clubs are reshaping student connections in the digital age. From Discord to Facebook, we’ve created spaces where students bond over shared passions—whether it’s board games, sports, or even Taylor Swift! These online communities foster inclusivity, peer support, and meaningful interactions that often blossom into in-person friendships.

Tune in to learn how virtual platforms can enhance campus life, promote belonging, and bridge the gap between digital and real-world connections. Discover strategies for launching and managing successful virtual groups that make every student feel at home.