I see it everyday. Many children of school age don't have the resources or support that is needed to keep them wanting to not only go to school but also excel while there. It can be something as small as a parent or guardian complimenting them on a passed exam or a attending a parent night. Having support, not only in school from staff and faculty but also family and friends can help make the difference in retaining students.
You have touched on a major problem. It's even bigger problem at the K - 12 level. Does your institution include any information about being supportive during the orientation sessions for parents/significant others?
Another parental pressure is "you have to go to college" with no allowance for alternate career paths. So many of our culinary students would benefit from getting a job in the industry first, and using that experience to determine whether or not they truly want to pursue the degree. If they do opt for school, they begin with a passion grounded in reality.
