Kent State’s College of Business Administration reported a 3.4 percent increase in fall enrollment and a
freshman retention rate of 83.8 percent, up from 80 percent last year. With total enrollment of 4,502, it
is the second largest business college in Ohio.
“There are multiple factors attributing to the increased retention of our first year students,” said Nicole
Kotlan, academic program director. “I believe it's the result of several College of Business Administration
programs and requirements we have put in place for first year students.”
“Our Academic Advisors, First Year Experience (FYE) faculty and student success leaders have a big
impact on the experience our freshmen have their first year,” Kotlan said. “Our Academic Advisors are
fantastic; they truly care about the success of their students and provide the needed assistance as part
of the "Formula to Finish" to remain on track each semester. Our FYE faculty stay in touch with their
students beyond the first semester from personal conversations to a quick email to check-in.”
Kotlan also attributes retention to the College of Business Administration’s Parent Listserv, which keep
parents updated on deadlines and college activities.
“I send messages throughout the semester updating parents on tutoring resources, required advising,
scheduling dates and much more,” Kotlan said. “The Parent Listserv is then carried over until the end of
the students’ fourth year.”