College students are failing to graduate at unacceptable rates (Camera, 2016; DeVore, 2016; Scherer & Anson, 2014; Schneider, 2008). If graduation is the goal, then retention is the means. The research study sought to understand a potential solution to the pervasive retention problem, by researching a new strategy, compassionate enrollment. Compassionate enrollment includes the holistic application of three dimensions: personalized enrollment practices, academic preparedness, and need-meeting financial aid. The central research question asked: What were the perceptions held by junior college students about compassionate enrollment and its affect on their retention? The descriptive study employed a sequential mixed methods approach. A survey followed by focus groups, utilized a purposeful sample: students at a research site employing a compassionate enrollment approach. The survey yielded a 50% participation rate; 43 out of 86 students participated. Additionally, 12 out of 25 respondents, or 48%, participated in focus groups. Survey data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney U tests. Focus group data analysis used data condensation, coding, and theme development. The results of the study indicate that students perceived the research site's enrollment approach as compassionate and this impacted their decision to stay and persist at the college. When all three dimensions of compassionate enrollment were applied holistically, students reported feeling: 1) valued as an individual; 2) supported; 3) a sense of belonging; 4) a sense of accomplishment; 5) motivated to do better; 6) an appreciation for the institution; 7) stress relief; and 8) more focused on their academics. The findings of the study confirm compassionate enrollment leads to the retention of students. The primary implications of these findings are that compassionate enrollment, when applied holistically and combined with effective post-enrollment retention strategies, offers a potential solution to the pervasive retention problem. Additionally, the results of the study, present an effective strategy for institutions to ease students through the transition to college, increasing the likelihood a student would stay, and graduate. Lastly, retaining a student is significantly less expensive than recruiting one; therefore, the application of compassionate enrollment could serve as a cost-effective way to address retention. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]