Retention begins with looking at policy through a student's eyes, not administratively.

I learned that keeping the students engaged while learning can help to keep retention low. Being able to recognize if the students are disengaged before it becomes to late can help to increase retention. It is important to remember that maintaining retention is a collective effort amongst the entire staff from start to finish in retaining the students. This information gave me great tools to use and think about while teaching my students and keeping them looking forward to a rewarding career in the end.

This module helped me understand that career services can also play an important role in student retention. When students clearly see how their studies connect with future job opportunities, they are more motivated to continue and complete their programs. I plan to apply this by integrating employability resources earlier in the student journey and by creating more opportunities for students to connect their academic progress with their professional goals.

This module helped me understand that student retention is strongly connected to how involved students feel with their institution. Academic support is important, but social connection, communication, and a sense of belonging also make a big difference. I plan to apply this by creating more opportunities for students to connect with faculty, services, and each other, and by strengthening follow-up strategies that help students feel supported throughout their academic journey.

This module helped me understand how important orientation and mentoring are for student retention. I learned that students need clear guidance, support, and connection from the beginning of their academic journey. I plan to apply this by strengthening onboarding activities, providing more personalized follow-up, and making sure students know the services and resources available to support their success.

This module reinforced the idea that student retention starts before enrollment. A clear admissions experience helps students understand the program, expectations, available support, and career outcomes from the beginning. In my role, I plan to apply this by strengthening onboarding, improving communication during the first weeks, and making sure students know where to find academic and support services. I also want to identify potential risks early and provide more personalized follow-up to help students stay engaged and successfully progress in their studies.

Retention is responsibility of everyone.

I learned that a strong retention program depends on an institution-wide commitment to student success, rather than relying on one universal strategy. I will apply this by supporting collaboration among students, faculty, and staff, promoting activities that build school commitment, and using retention practices that fit students’ specific needs while following applicable policies and regulations.