The Effect of a Special Orientation Program for Entering Freshmen on Attrition, Satisfaction, and Grade Point Average

• Main Author: Patton, Carol R. (Carol Rogers)
• Other Authors: Miller, William A.
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: North Texas State University 1980
• Subjects: orientation programs; college freshman students
• Online Access: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc331427/

This study was initiated to assess the effectiveness of a special orientation program with the purpose of reducing the anxiety of entering freshmen and easing their adjustment to the campus environment. The criteria of evaluation were retention, satisfaction, and academic achievement. The 468 subjects were first-time freshmen from outside Tarrant County entering Texas Christian University in the fall of 1980. Half of the subjects participated in the experimental program, Operation Welcome, and the other half served as a control group. Those in Operation Welcome were grouped in teams with eight other freshmen, two upperclassmen serving as a big brother and big sister, and a local alumni family. Each of the freshmen in the program received letters of welcome prior to leaving home and participated in special events upon arrival on campus.