A study investigated key factors used by 344 first-year college students to assess their fit to their university. Applying concepts of cognitive dissonance, the study showed perceptions of student/institution fit to be related to key attribute and aspirational variables. Implications for enrollment management, especially retention, are discussed.…

This paper presents a study designed to determine the reason first and post-first year students (N=61) chose to leave Chicago Urban University (CUU) prior to graduation. Data were sought from a random sample of 100 students via either a mailed or a telephone survey, with a 61% response rate. The 54-question interview/survey instrument examined the…

Factors that affect the attainment of a bachelor's degree by urban students are outlined. The demographic profile of American school children makes it clear that problems for urban colleges and universities will grow in the years ahead. There is a correlation between income and education achievement; low income students do not achieve, persist, or…

This report describes the 1994 postsecondary education assistance patterns, job experiences, lifestyles, and values of the eighth grade class of 1988. The data from the report are from the 1994 Third Follow-up of the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 which collected information on postsecondary education participation, employment,…

This volume contains selected papers presented at National Black Student Retention Conferences between 1988 and 1991, that examine ideas concerning educational access and retention. The volume and papers are divided into three groupings which address: (1) The Psycho-Social Implications; (2) Model Strategies and Programs; and (3) Impacts of Faculty…

This document reviews the experiences of College Bound, a joint four-year Boston Public Schools/Boston College enrichment and support program for multicultural, urban, public high school students. The program was designed to supplement the regular high school curriculum and was intended to refine basic skills, stimulate critical thinking and…