category: Student Success What Student Success in College Really Requires By Gardner-Webb University On March 11, 2026 Student success in college is often discussed in terms of grades, retention rates, or graduation timelines. But behind every successful student is something deeper: a network of relationships, resources, and intentional support systems that help them navigate the college experience. At many universities, student success is not the responsibility of a single office. It is a shared commitment across faculty, advisors, mentors, and campus services. When institutions focus on helping students build connections, clarify goals, and develop resilience, they create the conditions that allow students to persist and complete their degrees. Understanding what truly supports student success can help both students and educators see the path forward more clearly. What Does Student Success in College Really Mean? Student success is more than simply earning a degree. It involves helping students grow academically, personally, and professionally while working toward meaningful goals. According to I Kenneth Johnson, Executive Director of Student Success, success begins by recognizing where students start. Many students arrive on campus feeling uncertain or disconnected. They may be navigating a new environment, adjusting to academic expectations, or questioning their career path. Johnson describes this journey through what he calls the DIIP model: Disconnection – Students initially feel uncertain or isolated. Intentional Connection – Advisors, faculty, and peers build relationships with students. Internal Belonging – Students begin to feel part of the campus community. Purposeful Engagement – Students contribute to the community and mentor others. When institutions intentionally guide students through this progression, they strengthen both persistence and overall student development. As Johnson explains, success often begins with one simple step: helping students feel connected. Why Belonging Is Critical for Student Retention Research across higher education consistently shows that students who feel a sense of belonging are more likely to stay enrolled and complete their degrees. Belonging does not happen automatically. It develops through meaningful relationships and consistent support. Students experience belonging when they: Build relationships with advisors and faculty Engage with campus programs or organizations Connect with peers who share similar academic interests Participate in mentoring or leadership roles Johnson emphasizes that belonging is universal. “Everybody can feel disconnected. We have to create intentional connections so students feel like they belong.” When students begin to feel invested in their campus community, their motivation and persistence often increase. That sense of connection can transform the college experience from simply attending classes into becoming part of a supportive learning environment. The Role of Advising and Career Clarity Early in College One common reason students take longer than expected to graduate is uncertainty about their academic path. Many students enter college with limited understanding of potential careers or how their interests align with different majors. As a result, they may change majors multiple times. Early advising can help address this challenge. Effective advising strategies often include: Career assessments that help students identify strengths and interests Structured course planning to avoid overwhelming schedules Regular advisor check-ins during the first year Guidance connecting academic programs to career outcomes Johnson notes that helping students clarify their direction early can significantly improve completion rates. When students understand their goals and how their coursework connects to future careers, they are more likely to remain focused and engaged. How Peer Mentoring Supports Student Success While professional advising is important, some of the most valuable guidance students receive comes from other students. Peer mentors can help new students navigate aspects of college that are not always explained in orientation materials or course syllabi. These mentors often help students: Understand campus resources Develop study and time-management strategies Learn how to approach professors or seek tutoring Navigate everyday challenges of campus life Johnson describes peer mentoring as an extension of the belonging process. Students who have already established connections on campus often become mentors themselves, helping new students build those same relationships. This creates a cycle of support that strengthens the entire campus community. Why GRIT Matters in College Persistence Even with strong support systems, students will encounter academic challenges. Success often depends on how students respond to those setbacks. Johnson highlights the importance of GRIT, which he defines as: Growth – commitment to improvement Resilience – recovering from challenges Intentionality – actively seeking support Tenacity – continuing to work toward goals For example, a student who struggles in a course might initially feel discouraged. But persistence means taking action such as seeking tutoring, adjusting study strategies, or asking instructors for guidance. As Johnson explains: “You have to do whatever is necessary to be successful in that class. That’s grit.” Teaching students how to respond to difficulty is just as important as teaching course material. Practical Ways Students Can Strengthen Their Success Students can take several steps to improve their chances of thriving in college: Build relationships early. Connect with advisors, faculty, and mentors. Use campus resources. Tutoring, counseling, and academic support services exist to help students succeed. Clarify your goals. Explore career pathways and academic interests early. Engage in campus life. Join organizations or learning communities that create connections. Develop resilience. Treat challenges as opportunities to adjust strategies and grow. These actions help students move from uncertainty to confidence in their academic journey. Supporting the Whole Student Experience Student success is not the result of a single program or initiative. It is the outcome of intentional support across an entire university community. When institutions focus on connection, belonging, advising, and resilience, they create environments where students can grow and complete their educational goals. As higher education continues to evolve, the most effective institutions will remain those that meet students where they are and help them move forward with clarity and purpose. Johnson says the goal of student success work is simple: build avenues that help students move forward with confidence. “We have to create the pathway for our students—to meet them where they are so they can be successful.” Explore the academic programs, advising resources, and student support services available at Gardner-Webb University to learn how the university helps students succeed from their first semester through graduation. Explore the academic programs, advising resources, and student support services available at Gardner-Webb University to learn how the university helps students succeed from their first semester through graduation.
