Understanding Incoming College Students

A new national survey of more than 5,000 students highlights shifting priorities and challenges for today’s college-goers. Students are diverse, motivated, and eager to succeed—but many face emotional exhaustion, academic anxiety, and financial strain. Fewer students view peers as sources of support, and fewer are confident in their ability to navigate social issues on campus. These findings offer timely insight into how institutions can meet students with empathy, clarity, and proactive support.

Key Takeaway: Today’s students bring new strengths and needs—institutions must listen and respond with flexible, inclusive support.

Enhancing Support For Community College Student Parents

More community colleges are expanding wraparound services to better support student parents balancing school, work, and caregiving. From on-campus childcare and evening classes to dedicated advisers, these efforts are designed to make college more accessible for learners who often feel invisible. Institutions report that even modest support improves engagement and persistence for parenting students.

Quick Insight: Supporting student parents helps colleges boost equity, retention, and degree completion at the same time.

Mental Health & Financial Barriers Threaten College Student Success

New research from TimelyCare finds that nearly half of students cite mental health struggles and financial pressures as top concerns threatening their ability to stay enrolled. The findings reflect growing demand for mental health services and more flexible, compassionate financial aid policies. Students say they want resources that are easy to access—and staff who understand their stress.

Key Action: Campuses should prioritize wellness funding and ensure students know where and how to get help when they need it.

Investing In Coaching Models To Boost Student Success

Columbus State University is launching a bold new coaching initiative, hiring 40 academic and career coaches with a $4 million investment. Coaches will offer students consistent, personalized support from enrollment through graduation. The move is designed to lighten faculty advising loads while helping students stay on track. Early indicators suggest students value one-on-one relationships that combine academic and life guidance.

Quick Insight: Coaching offers a scalable, student-centered way to improve retention and help learners feel seen and supported.

Examining Success Rates Among Pell Grant Recipients

The Richmond Fed’s latest survey shows a 13-point gap in success rates between Pell recipients and their peers—40% versus 53%. These results reflect well-documented disparities in graduation and transfer rates for low-income students. While not surprising, the data reinforces the urgent need for financial, academic, and social support systems that address the specific hurdles faced by Pell-eligible learners.

Key Takeaway: Closing the completion gap means centering low-income students in program design and policy decisions.

Positive Mental Health Outcomes Among HBCU Students

A new study from UNCF highlights what’s working: students at HBCUs are more likely to feel happy, connected, and mentally well compared to their peers at predominantly white institutions. HBCU students scored nine percentage points higher in mental flourishing and reported stronger senses of belonging and support. Researchers credit identity-affirming environments and culturally responsive programming.

Quick Insight: When students feel safe and valued, their well-being—and success—flourishes.