Improve Chances of College Success and Graduation: Get Involved

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Heading back to school is exciting. While college campuses fill up across the country, however, the American Institutes for Research recently explored the dismal effects of the U.S. college graduation rate*: barely more than half of college freshmen will end up graduating from college.

The causes and cures for such a grim percentage are highly debated. Financial challenges, academic unpreparedness and a bleak economy all play a role in the issue. But for parents and students who want to increase the likelihood of graduation – and college success – we have one simple tip: get involved.

Past research proved that extra-curricular activities in college built loyalty and school pride, as well as provided a well-rounded education. Even if your student wasn’t exactly a “go-getter” in high school, he can find his niche in college and get involved.

Encourage your student to explore and choose an extra-curricular activity that’s right for him. That doesn’t mean over-committing his scheduling and spreading himself too thin. By prioritizing and scheduling, your student can find a way to balance academics, social life and extra-curricular activities.

Whatever the interests and passions of your student, there is likely an activity for him. Encourage him to find it. Consider just a sampling of the diverse options available at most universities:

• Student government
• Intramurals
• Bands
• Associations related to his major, like Public Relations Student Society of America
• Greek life (sororities and fraternities)
• Service fraternities
• Religious groups
• Ethnic groups, like Hispanic Student Association
• Social cause groups, like Animal Rights Organization
• Comedy improve groups
• Athletics, like cycling club
• Political groups
• Yearbook or newspaper staff
• Dancing groups, like Swing Dancing Club

* Read the full report, The High Cost of Low Graduation Rates: How Much Does Dropping Out of College Really Cost? (PDF)