Retention and Graduation; Student's Experiences at IU South Bend

Abstract

This paper explores students' thoughts toward the low retention and graduation rates at JU South Bend in hopes of finding ways to increase these statistics. Data for this paper came from five interviews between myself and current or former students in South Bend, Indiana, in the spring of 2015. Participant observations were also conducted on two separate occasions, during which I observed the behavioral habits and study habits of our students while on campus. Three key themes were found in the data; anxiety/ depression, Jack of advising,. and distorted expectations of college work and life. The complications resulting from these themes often became the cause of many students' self-described frustration, pressure, and struggles as they try to complete their education.