Early Engagement Survey of 1st year graduate students at ISU: Fall 2012

Abstract

<p>The Early Engagement Survey was emailed to first year graduate students on October 16, during the 9th week of the semester. The purpose of the survey was to identify key behaviors of new graduate students that might provide an early indication of difficulties transitioning to graduate school. Students were asked about their academic integration, social integration, and possible causes of financial stress—three factors identified as possible explanations as to why students leave graduate school without a degree. We also know that the largest attrition rates occur during the first year of graduate studies, but we do not know whether early student behaviors during the first few months of graduate school correlate with a decision to leave by the end of the first year.</p>