Abstract
This study investigates the factors that affect retention and graduation rates for college students at The College of Wooster, with a focus on first-generation students, using mathematical models like logistic and stepwise regression. First-generation students, defined as students whose parents/guardians have not completed a 4-year college/university, often struggle to graduate within the expected time frame. Due to a lack of parental experience and knowledge of the college environment, students struggle to successfully navigate their own college experience. If not properly addressed, this lack of support can result in attrition. The results demonstrate that first-generation students have lower graduation rates than continuing-generation students with pre-college, college, and demographic factors being significant predictors of graduation. To improve retention and graduation rates for all students, the study proposes measures such as increasing accessibility to resources for first-generation students, implementing a centralized data system, and strengthening the First-Year Seminar program. The implications of this study can provide insight into areas of improvement for all students at The College of Wooster.
Advisor
Pasteur, Drew
Department
Mathematics
Recommended Citation
Truong, Anna, "Understanding First-Generation Graduation Rates at The College of Wooster: Applying Mathematical Models to Factors that Affect Retention" (2023). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 10652.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/10652
Disciplines
Applied Statistics | Multivariate Analysis | Other Applied Mathematics | Other Mathematics | Statistical Methodology | Statistical Models
Keywords
Retention, Graduation, Retention Rates, Graduation Rates, First-gen, First-generation, Mathematical Models
Publication Date
2023
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2023 Anna Truong