Carey Dukes

The Hidden Costs of College Dropout Rates and How to Combat Them

Carey can address the significant financial and emotional costs associated with high college dropout rates, both for families and institutions. He can explain his research findings on the six variable components that most affect student retention and offer practical strategies that institutions can implement to reduce dropout rates, thereby preserving their financial investments and supporting students' long-term success. This talking point is especially relevant for institutions seeking effective methods to improve student retention and for parents who want to understand the stakes of their child’s college journey.

Why College Readiness Begins Before Acceptance

Carey can discuss how true college readiness starts long before a student receives their acceptance letter. He can highlight the key factors that predict student success, such as commitment, self-belief, and time management skills, and how parents and institutions can foster these traits in students before they even step onto campus. This point resonates with parents who want to ensure their child's investment in higher education pays off, as well as institutions looking to boost their retention rates from day one.

Bridging the Critical Transition Between High School and College

Carey can explore the often-overlooked challenges that students face when transitioning from high school to college, which can significantly impact their academic success. He can discuss the common pitfalls that lead to early dropouts and how proactive measures—such as pre-college preparation courses and early interventions—can make a substantial difference. This talking point is highly relevant for parents who want to ensure their children are fully prepared for the demands of college life and for institutions seeking to smooth the transition to reduce first-year attrition rates.