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Student Success Coaching

54% of college students drop out due to an inability to balance school and life (jobs etc). 28% of first year college students don't re-enroll for their sophomore year. 12% of college students enroll at a new school for their sophomore year.

What happens in that first year that creates such high numbers? In short, A LOT!

In a recent survey that I conducted of first year college students, nearly 89% reported issues that they would not discuss with parents, school professionals, or friends that caused them deep distraction from their academic workload (e.g. Victims of sexual aggression, alcohol or drug use, issues with friends/roommates). 24% of those surveyed dropped out or changed schools after their first year. 94% said they wished they had had a confidential coach to speak with during their first year.

As with anyone starting something new, students face a variety of challenges when embarking on a new educational journey at the college level whether it's in an on-campus environment or in an online program. With so many facets to the experience, it can leave students feeling isolated, lost, or uncertain about their choices.

With support, they do not have to remain stuck in those feelings!

Many new college students report that, in the first semester in particular, the hardest things to navigate are:

  • Social issues (Dormitory life, roommate situations, sex, dating, relationships and finding like-minded friends)

  • Adjusting to the college course structure and intensity of the work

  • Managing time to meet all academic, personal and social commitments without stress

  • Degree and major selection or re-selection (Two year, four year, or masters degree and the major for each degree)

  • Holding accountability (Going to class regularly, follow through with commitments etc)

  • Managing self-care appropriately (Eating well, resting, getting exercise)

  • Navigating feelings of "Did I choose the right school/program?" (If the impression of the campus/program is different after getting started)

In the online sphere, there are additional issues such as:

  • Disconnection from a college community

  • Feeling isolated from teaching staff and/or classmates

  • Uncertainty of what support services are available to online students

Given all of the adjustments happening, particularly in the first year of the college experience, it's little wonder why so many students don't reach their academic potential, consider transferring to another school, or leave school altogether.

Student Success Coaching provides support to students that might not be accessible to them from advisors, friends, or parents. College freshman report trying to "muscle through" the challenges for fear of letting down their parents, mentors, or friends. Many are reluctant to share that they are struggling because they have the impression that the adjustments necessary to settle into college are easy for everyone else.