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Did you know that nearly one-third of college students drop out after their first year? In this episode, Carey Dukes, assistant professor at North Greenville University and author of A Guide to Thrive!, joins GradComm CEO Cheryl Broom to explore why so many students struggle and what we can do about it. Dukes breaks down the six key variables he uses to measure college readiness, offering a framework that goes beyond academics to include a student’s environment, mindset, motivation, and belief in their ability to succeed. Together, they unpack how these factors impact student retention and what educators, institutions, and families can do to better support students before and during their college journey. 

Bonus: Dukes is offering a free copy of his book to anyone with an .edu email address! Contact him directly to claim your copy at [email protected]

What You’ll Learn:

• Why 1 in 3 college students drop out after their first year
• The six key factors Carey uses to assess college readiness
• Why academic ability isn’t the only predictor of success
• How a student’s background, mindset, and motivation influence persistence
• Practical strategies for improving first-year student success and retention

Thanks for listening!

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Higher Ed Conversations is hosted by Cheryl Broom, CEO of GradComm, a marketing and branding agency specializing in community colleges and public education.