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By numerous rankings, NYU is one of the most influential research universities in the world. But despite its reputation, scale and programming, it ranks low among its AAU peers in first-year retention and graduation rates. Recent research conducted by NYU, including Student Voice Surveys and a comprehensive audit of student email have revealed a need for further examination of the patterns of behavior, “friction” points, and areas where students are not having successful outcomes.
As outlined below, both structural and cultural factors are impacting students' ability to easily navigate pathways to complete their degrees. NYU believes students should retain and graduate because of the pathways we create, not despite them.
Student Needs
Have Changed
Student Needs
Have Changed
Their need of current undergraduate students are different from the generations that came before them.
They are the most racially and ethnically diverse population to attend college. They don’t remember the world before the internet. They consume content in bite-size and on-demand.
They also have different expectations of their college experience: one that is tech-forward, career-oriented, worth the investment, and respects how they learn and communicate.
The World
Has Changed
The World
Has Changed
Many current trends aren’t new— but they’re accelerating. Globalization, the integration of technology into daily life, the threat of climate change, political polarization, the student debt crisis, racial violence and activism for social justice.
Against this backdrop, COVID-19 has impacted the world in ways we are only starting to understand, including financial stress, social isolation, mental health challenges, expectations of work, and uncertainty about the future. The effects on Gen Z are even less known, as they’ve navigated growing up in this time of change.
Higher Ed
Hasn't "Really" Changed
Higher Ed
Hasn't "Really" Changed
Many universities were designed in a different era, for the needs of different populations, and have not evolved with the needs of today’s students.
A new service, support, and communication approach will require a deep understanding of the behaviors, motivations, and expectations of college-going youth, and the intersecting identities, technologies, and worldviews that have shaped their lives.
“In an age of instantaneous communication and feedback, surrounded by Amazon 1-Click, Netflix, Instagram, and Google, college campuses remain stuck with an amalgamation of processes. As campuses reopen and the virus subsides, Gen Z will expect more from colleges.”
-Jeff Selingo, Chronicle of Higher Education, 2021 Report
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