Journal of College Orientation, Transition, and Retention

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Student Satisfaction of Orientation at Appalachian State University

Adam L. Wade

Diane M. Waryold

Nikki T. Crees

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/jcotr.v17i1.2715

Keywords: Orientation, Appalachian State University, structure, Chronicle of Higher Education's Almanac, minority groups, Elon University, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Survey Monkey, satisfaction, CAS Standards for Orientation Programs

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Abstract

It is widely acknowledged that students' first introduction to college life can have a profound impact on student persistence and educational attainment (Pascarella & Terenzini, 2005). Therefore, this study investigates student satisfaction of orientation as self-reported by 213 unndergraduate students at Appalachian State University (ASU). Results indicated that students were generally satisfied with the information that they received, their interactions with orientation staff, and with individual program offerings during the orientation event. Recommendations are made to enhance intentional and proactive planning measures to improve coordinated efforts for future orientation programs on a university wide basis.