For a variety of reasons, many first-generation students find it challenging to complete their college education. In an effort to retain and matriculate these students in the university, a program co-sponsored by Academic Affairs and the Division of Student Services is being offered to pair students with faculty members who serve in the capacity of mentors.
Students and faculty work together to improve academic achievement, retention and graduation rates of students. Both gain a better understanding of the needs and concerns of today's diverse college students through participation in the program.
Faculty mentoring is well grounded in higher education research as a positive indicator for increased student satisfaction and persistence, which leads to successful graduation. At CSULB, the Partners for Success program provides such mentoring to students, particularly first-generation students. Mentors support students through ongoing, dedicated contacts, which has led to increased student success and higher graduation rates.
