Building a strong rapport and foundation of trust, care for student success and well-being, and letting students know that you care about them is a major factor in increasing retention. Other factors that are important when it comes to building a strong retention program are, early identification and intervention, academic persistence strategies, expanded student success coaching, and retention-focused faculty development. 

Personal stressors play a major role in students giving up and withdrawing from courses. I learned from this course that for a student to remain in school, the student needs to be aware of the personal interest and concern of a faculty member. It's important for faculty to build a trusting 1:1 rapport and relationship with students so that students feel they are well supported. This relationship also allows for faculty to intervene early if stressors are identified. 

I have learned that retention is the responsibility of everyone. I have also learned that retention can be enhanced by making changes in the campus environment. This can mean positive reinforcement, the importance of the student's connection with people at the college, and the importance of the student developing pride in their accomplishments.