What is the most effective strategy your institution has implemented to improve student retention? Whether it's early alerts, proactive outreach, academic support, or something else, I'd love to hear what's working at your school and what lessons you've learned along the way.

Attention=Retention. Everyone wants to feel seen and heard. 

There are a myriad of types of support that can be offered to students.  I like the idea of seminars - offered by people outside of the program, to provide a variety of support voices.

I look forward to discussing the 8 stages of intervention with the Program Directors and faculty in my Division.  These are a great foundational approach with a student that is exhibiting academic or attendance issues.  IT is doable when time is limited. .(e.g. 15 - 30 min).

'feeling unimportant' and 'dead-ended'   - faculty can have a HUGE effect on how a student sees themselves by helping the student to feel seen.   The school/program/PD can help to combat the stress associate with worry about the career choice, helping to facilitate their belief in the calling they are running towards, and how the sacrifice will pay off if they stick to it. 

I especially relate to the idea of understanding necessary and unnecessary caused of attrition.  Some things are unavoidable (health, family emergency) - but creating a culture where students 'work with staff on day to day issues before they become insurmountable' and preventing unnecessary attrition.  Understanding culture creation is powerful.

If everyone sees retention as part of their responsibility, fewer students will fall between the cracks

Setting the tone of expectation and comportment in a professional school is important; we are in a different type of educational setting and ensuring there is no misunderstanding of this is the job of all the faculty.

Orientation has a lot riding on it. Making the expereicne more engaging can put to rest any reservations a student might be having and show them the resources that will help them accomplish what they are there for.

To improve retention rates, schools should consistently focus on effective admissions processes, well planned and engaging orientations, strong mentoring, student involvement, memorable graduation ceremonies, and effective job placement support.

Job placement can involve students throughout their entire program, starting as early as Admissions. Introducing career preparation early can help students stay motivated because they can see how their education connects to their future career. Employment skills can be practiced throughout the program, giving students opportunities to build confidence, prepare for interviews, create resumes, and understand what to expect when entering the field.

This can also support retention by helping students… >>>