This study identifies factors associated with freshmen retention rates at a mid-size private university. A key finding from our analysis is that roommates' academic efforts, residing on an honours floor and membership in co-curricular groups increase retention. We also confirm many standard results in the literature regarding the impact on retention rates, such as student motivation and ability, and financial aid. We show that a timely housing application, closer proximity to home, a higher number of schools on a student's Free Application for Federal Student Aid and peer effects impact freshman retention. Our results suggest that a more sophisticated dormroom assignment algorithm matching students' abilities and interests could be considered to increase freshman retention rates among private institutions.

Resumen

Los autores del presente estudio de investigación han identificado diversos factores asociados a la tasa de retención estudiantil de primer año en una universidad Estadounidense privada. Este estudio encontró que los factores fundamentales asociados a la tasa de retención son: el esfuerzo académico del compañero de dormitorio, residencia en los pisos de estudiantes del programa de honores, y participación en actividades extra-curriculares. El estudio también confirmó que la tasa de retención está asociada a la motivación y habilidades del estudiante, y al acceso a becas escolares. Así mismo, se comprobó que la aplicación temprana para elegir dormitorio, la proximidad del hogar familiar, y el número de aplicaciones a otras universidades tienen un impacto significativo en la tasa de retención. Basado en los resultados, se recomienda una asignación más efectiva de los dormitorios que promueva un mejor compatibilidad entre los estudiantes asignados a dorminorios, lo cual podría mejorar la tasa de retención en universidades privadas.

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Volume74, Issue3

July 2020

Pages 334-346

Using peer effects to explain retention rates in a private university

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Using peer effects to explain retention rates in a private university

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