Academic advising practices that support retention rates in two-year college in the southeastern United States

• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2047/D20239217

The academic advising practices of two-year colleges with high retention rates was examined using general inductive qualitative study. Participants were all mangers or deans who oversaw the advising practice at their college. The colleges interviewed were all located in the Southeastern United States. The study uncovered five key findings: (a) early identification and intervention of high-risk students; (b) increased communication with students, particularly at significant dates for enrollment; (c) implementation of support coaches; (d) training of faculty and staff who serve as advisors; and (e) mandatory advising sessions for students. The findings validated the importance of academic advising in improving and sustaining retention rates. Implementing these practices in other two-year colleges may help improve institution retention rates and student success.