Success

CREWS Program

Background

Although programs that help students access higher education have gained strength and momentum in recent years, many college students are still dropping out prior to realizing their educational dreams. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Education, only 50% of those who enter higher education actually earn a bachelors degree. Retaining students remains a top priority of colleges and universities, and over the years, many have spent vast amounts of money and resources setting up programs and services that aim to eliminate likely barriers to student achievement. College access programs are now looking for new creative ways to more effectively transition and channel their students from orientation through to college graduation.

Program Summary

The SoCal CAN CREWS Program (College Retention Excels With Students) is a network-wide retention initiative that builds on the successes of its member organizations’ college retention strategies. The program groups incoming freshmen attending the same college into a cohort, or “crew”, of 5-6 students that works to provide the leadership and support systems necessary to ensure each student enjoys a fulfilling and successful college experience. Crews are managed by a “Crew Leader”, a peer mentor who's responsibility is to organize and lead the group once they are at college (organize meetings, recommend campus resources, demonstrate a positive influence, etc.). After a series of summer trainings, crew leaders are qualified to lead their “crew” through the transition from high school to college success. Crew Leaders are awarded an annual $500 scholarship for their participation in the program.

Participating Institutions

• El Camino College
• CSU Northridge
• CSU Dominguez Hills
• UCLA
• UC Riverside
• Franklin & Marshall College
• Occidental College