Traditionally, institutional supports for college student success have
been concentrated in the first and senior years, though attention to the
sophomore year has increased over the last two decades. Paying attention
to the second college year is vitally important, as some evidence
suggests students are more likely to leave their institution during this
time than they are in the first year. The case studies of sophomore
initiatives featured in this volume describe programs that build on
institutional objectives for the first college year and prepare students
for the transition to the major and, ultimately, graduation. Rich
program descriptions and discussions of assessment provide practitioners
focused on designing a cohesive undergraduate experience excellent
models to guide their work.