Any persistence improvement plan must have the commitment of all key managers and be reflected in their performance review standards (evaluating the implementation and maintenance of the programs, not the achievement of a specific number of students or percentage retention). the culture of your institution must be based on its commitment to student success. Aligning the expectations set during the admissions process with the product that is delivered at the school is an important part of avoiding student frustration later on. Orientation provides an opportunity for students to meet staff and faculty, and set the tone for their experience with your school. It is important to make a positive first impression; to demonstrate that you are committed to the student's success. Keeping the dream alive is an important component of student persistence. the student is provided with an outline of the progress they will make toward their career objective. Each student should clearly understand how the competencies taught in each course relate to the career objective.