A focus group was formed at Brigham Young University (Utah) to gain student perspectives on advising services and materials. The approach has helped the institution refine its materials and content to match students' developmental needs, involve students in program evaluation, and improve administrator sensitivity to student needs. (MSE)

The freshman orientation process at Fordham College is used to illustrate the processes and advantages of building a sense of community for freshmen, one element supporting successful advising. Among the techniques used was a Values Program, a grouping of courses to encourage learning and stimulate moral development among students. (MSE)

The use of a comprehensive academic advising program in conjunction with a sustained academic orientation program through the freshman year has resulted in a 13.27 percent increase in the retention rate of high-risk students at a regional campus of Pennsylvania State University. The components of CORE are described. (Author/MLW)