OUR VIEW: Transformation U transforming for the good

While most of us dread attending class once in awhile, the idea of dropping out still seems slightly extreme. However, in 2001 almost one-third of those students admitted leave USU after their first year.

Over the years, university officials have noticed the troubling attrition rate and rather than looking the other way, members of USU have developed a different strategy – encouraging students to succeed and graduate. The university has implemented “Transformation U,” which has increased the retention rate by 10 points, from 66 to 75 percent.

The university should be commended for implementing such a program to encourage students to continue to pursue a higher education. Remembering back to our freshman year, we sympathize with the chaotic emotions this transition brings. Freshman year can often be overwhelming and the idea of actually attending classes necessary for a career is daunting. No wonder many students drop out after their first year.

However, the university is offering guidance for students by focusing on the recruitment process and aiming to help potential Aggies decide whether USU is right for them. This call to action can also be seen in our athletics programs. According to a posting on www.pnnonline.org , a nonprofit news and information source, USU’s men’s basketball team in this season’s NCAA tournament show a 100 percent graduation rate for this year. According to the site, within six years of initial enrollment, nearly one-third of the men’s teams across the country, 20 out of 65, failed to graduate 30 percent of their players.

The university should be commended for its efforts in student retention and recruitment. Even though some of us come kicking and screaming to class, we still come and our appreciation goes out to those who are making that a reality.