In many situations students arrive on campus without knowing another student. This can be a real challenge for many, and if not given opportunities to engage and connect with other students, it will be difficult to retain these newcomers. Given the significant research conducted by Alexander Astin, Vincent Tinto, and others, helping students develop a sense of belonging, providing means for them to feel connected, and opening avenues for them to engage with other students should become a top priority for institutions of higher education. Unfortunately, too many colleges and universities wait until the student arrives on campus before they try to connect the student to the fabric of campus life. In many situations, this can be too late. We have found that providing opportunities for students to engage with each other in interest-based groups before the start of school can go a long way in providing a deeper sense of belonging, connection, and engagement before the first day of class.
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