UNM Branch Campus Los Alamos sample logo

The University of New Mexico

NEWS RELEASE



Media Contact: Sari Krosinsky, 277-1593, michal@unm.edu

October 1, 2007

UNM Freshmen Retention Hits All-Time High

Freshmen retention at the University of New Mexico has reached an all-time high, with 76.6 percent of students returning for a second year in fall 2007. In addition, retention of Hispanic freshman jumped more than three percent, from 73.1 percent in 2006 to 76.8 percent in 2007.

The numbers reflect first-time, full-time students who began coursework at UNM in summer or fall 2006.

Peter White, dean of University College, said that the freshman year is typically the most difficult at colleges nationwide. “If you can get through the first year the chances of success dramatically increase,” he said.

White said the improvement in retention may be attributed to a combination of new student success programs and efforts to build on existing programs. He said it’s a multi-faceted endeavor, with programs throughout the university supporting students at every level of academic achievement.

Another factor is the Lottery Success Scholarship. In 2006-07, freshman participation reached an all-time high, with 75 percent of eligible freshman receiving the scholarship, four percent higher than any previous year. Vice Provost Wynn Goering said the scholarship helps motivate students to strive for success – particularly in their first semester, the only time students can qualify. “The longer the lottery scholarship goes on, the closer the connection to retention is,” he said.

Two new programs that help students retain the lottery scholarship are the Summer Success Scholarships and winter intersession classes. These programs give students an opportunity to make up the lottery scholarship’s minimum credit hour requirements for the spring and fall semesters, respectively.

University College offers a slate of Freshman Academic Choices to help students make the transition to college life. The programs are centered on community building, forging close, personal bonds between students and faculty and within peer groups. These personal connections can help keep students coming back.

Through the Research Service Learning Program, students connect with communities beyond UNM. RSLP Director Dan Young said in the past year students – including 221 freshman – contributed $518,000 worth of community service through the program. White said the practical experience enhances what students learn in the classroom. “What they read becomes more meaningful to them,” he said.

Another program contributing to freshmen retention is the College Enrichment Program, which provides first generation and underrepresented students with freshman orientation and support services throughout their college careers. New this year is the Parental Advisory Council, through which CEP helps parents help students to succeed.


The University of New Mexico is the state's largest university, serving more than 32,000 students. UNM is home to the state's only schools of law, medicine, pharmacy and architecture and operates New Mexico's only academic health center. UNM is noted for comprehensive undergraduate programs and research that benefits the state and the nation.

www.unm.edu