Students from 15 colleges compare their expectations of college with their experiences. (MSE)

A survey (n=926) of the University of Hawaii at Manoa's multiethnic student population investigated experiences with racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination based on age, sexual orientation, physical disability, marital status, religion, or national origin. While this institution has specific policies on discrimination, students who…

A one-semester, credit-bearing course for parents of Wichita State University freshmen improves retention because parents can help freshmen adjust to the university environment. The course provides information about the institution through monthly articles and cassette audiotapes. Parents receive identification cards and parking decals and may…

The traditional collegiate ideal is institutionalized on many campuses through the structure and types of services offered by student affairs units. To change the collegiate ideal to represent a more inclusive environment, student affairs professionals must examine their policies and procedures and make changes that will help meet the…

Argues that the traditional definition of the collegiate ideal is inappropriate for vocational community-college students and that a more realistic portrayal of students and their programs is needed, taking into consideration the reality of fiscal constraints. "Contract education" and partnerships between colleges and industry can help students…

A study examined the impact of prejudice and discrimination at 18 institutions on the adjustment of 1,454 students to college. Results indicate perceived discriminatory behavior negatively affected minority-student academic/intellectual development, social experiences, and institutional commitment. Although differential effects were noted for…

A study was done at the University of Guelph (Ontario, Canada) examining the experiences, concerns and interests of college freshmen. Of 65 entering students who agreed to participate, 37 signed up for the study in September, 1988, with 24 women and 4 men completing all study requirements: completion of a daily diary; bimonthly unstructured…

The importance of communication between students and their educators is discussed by a teacher of communication. It is strongly suggested that success or failure in college depends on communication--"interdependent efforts of people in a relationship to generate common meaning." Chapters include: Communicating at College; Are Students…

Students knowledge and skills cannot be fully understood without assessing the ways they are influenced by other aspects of postsecondary education. These aspects are described in a "map" consisting of points that depict the flow of students through institutions and experiences from precollege to adulthood. (Author/MLW)

Conducted four focus groups to explore the college student experience of ethnic minorities (African American, Asian-Pacific American, Chicano/Latino, and Native American) in a predominantly White institution of higher education. Findings in terms of student voices and perspectives were grouped into six main categories: general campus climate,…

Guidelines are offered and suggestions made for creating a student recruitment video that captures and keeps prospective students' attention. Illustrations are provided from the experiences of colleges, universities, and private schools. Topics, techniques, style, and cost control are discussed. (MSE)

This study investigated the usefulness of three dormitory lifestyle assignments (male-only, female-only, co-ed) in promoting student participation in residence hall activities at James Madison University (Virginia). Results showed assignment to coeducational dormitories fostered more and varied student involvement than did male-only or female-only…

Results of a longitudinal study of student experience at over 200 4-year colleges are summarized. The study focused on student outcomes and how they are affected by college environments. Key findings are discussed for three areas: academic development, personal development, and satisfaction. (MSE)

In response to declining enrollments, Regis University (Colorado) is looking to increase retention and graduation rates by improving campus life. Efforts include creation and renewal of academic clubs and athletic teams, a program to ensure availability of student employment on campus, and a first-year seminar combining teaching, advising, and…

Five hundred incoming students attending Mount Saint Vincent University (Nova Scotia) were selected to participate in a study designed to compare the expectations and experiences of traditional students (who entered immediately after high school or transferred from another university or college) and nontraditional students (who entered part-time…