It seems exceptionally obvious that students who feel "cared for"or "encouraged" will stay in a tough program of study and strive to complete it. No surprises in the most effective ways to build that strong working "allince." Seems so simple in the 3 things that are most helpful, Point of Contact, Positive and procative contact, and Responsiveness when help or advice is needed. But here is the challenge: All of the staff and faculty must really behave in this manner and not just talk thebtalk.
