Research shows that the freshman year -- whether high school or college -- is a pivotal time for students. During the freshman year:
Research also shows that when students have developed a plan for a productive future beginning in the freshman year, completion rates double.
Students are more likely to apply themselves to more rigorous academic studies if they have a vision of their future and understand what doing well in school today means to their future happiness and life satisfaction. Unless individuals see the value of a good education, very little will keep them in school.