Retention and success of engineering undergraduates: A discussion of retention-related initiatives at the University at Buffalo

A student retention and success program instituted by the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences at the University at Buffalo was discussed. The results of the program, along with some of the formidable obstacles affecting engineering retention, are also presented. The program Provides a realistic vision of engineering, and imparting a sense of belonging within the school of Engineering and Applied Sciences. It is found that in terms of impact on course outcomes nearly two thirds of students regulary rate their work in a group as having improved their course grade at least one letter grade.