Published: Feb. 15, 2004

The Cultural Unity Center at the University of Colorado at Boulder is offering a new program to retain students who are at risk of withdrawing from college.

The University Withdrawal Project identifies freshmen and sophomores who did not enroll after completing their last semester, along with first-generation students who show signs of difficulty adjusting to college. These students meet one-on-one with CUC staff, who assist in identifying and relieving barriers to their continued education such as financial difficulties, academic stress or personal problems. Â鶹ÒùÔº who do leave college are encouraged to return and to give the CUC feedback on why they decided to withdraw.

"We want to make sure students know what their options are," said Dale Trevino, CUC director. "It's a preventative measure. If students are given some alternatives, we might be able to find a solution that will keep them in school."

Studies have shown that students in leadership positions are more likely to stay in school. The CUC also offers a multiethnic Collegiate Leadership Development Program to help students identify and build on their leadership skills.

The CUC helps minority and first-generation students to reach their academic and leadership potential. Through an intensive eight-week seminar, CUC staff facilitate dialogue between prospective student leaders and key university officials. In addition, students can attend national student leadership conferences and speak with important figures in business, politics and industry.

For more information contact the CUC at (303) 492-5667 or visit the Web site at .