Prof's book addresses freshmen retention issues

First they move in, meet their roommates, meet professors, then what? For freshmen to be successful in college, they need to know it is not the 13th grade.

This is one of five tips in "Waking Up in College," a book written by David Mount, adjunct professor of behavioral sciences and social work. 

"The book was written to address the freshmen retention crises that so many colleges are struggling with," Mount said.

Though targeting freshmen, Mount said his book provides information that can benefit upperclassmen and high school seniors as well. Some of Mount's tips are to find a mentor, know where to get help and make good decisions.

"If they [students] are conscious of these things, their ability to compete in college will improve," he said.

As a mentor himself, Mount said his inspiration to write his book came from his students. 

"Some of the students said to me, 'Not everyone has access to the mentoring you provide us. Is there a way you can help others that don't have access to you?'"

Since then, Mount said he has been writing his thoughts on paper and started to put the book together about two years ago.

He said success in college isn't only about graduating. He said it's what you've done to promote self-growth as well. A good GPA and having options after graduation are good indicators that you have maximized your educational pursuit, he said.

"[The book] also speaks to the holistic benefits of achieving a good college education."

Fred-Rick Roundtree, freshmen dean said, "The main factor to why students fail is because of the lack of personal responsibility to link themselves to the resources on campus."

He said everything in Mount's book mentioned is fully supported by the resources at Winston Salem-State. He said that some don't know there are options are available.

"These are really good tips," he said.

Roundtree said some freshmen come to college concentrating more on being away from home and the freedom they have than they do on studying.

Because of these distractions, Mount said, students are struggling and need core reminders on the main reason they are in college.

Mount said he wants his book to inspire first-generation college students. 

As a first-generation college student himself, Mount said completing college can be more challenging for these students. 

"I want them to know that someone is looking out for them and communicating thoughts that could uniquely give them a competitive edge."