High risk students on track to graduation: a qualitative case study of student success

This qualitative case study was designed to investigate how first-time, full-time undergraduate students who met standard admissions requirements ended up on academic probation after their first semester. Furthermore, this study explores how these students were able to overcome the academic adversity, return to good academic standing, and be on track to graduation. The theoretical framework of grit was used to during the research, since the research participants were able to overcome academic adversity. A high percentage of the regularly admitted first-time, full-time freshman at UCM who struggle academically during their first semester and are subsequently placed on academic probation, end up leaving the university with no degree. This study focuses on the minority of students in this population who stay enrolled, persisted, are in good academic standing, and are on track to complete a degree. Data collection for this research included individual interviews with students and document analysis. Findings indicate three major themes that impact student success: "fit" in an academic program, student mental health, and utilization of student resources. The research can provide university leadership with insight on how to improve student success, retain students on probation, and improve graduation rates for this population of students.