The differences between "persisters" and "leavers" in relation to their goals of attending college, and the effects of social and academic intergration, associated with institutional commitment is described. Implications of the research for student services are presented. (Author/MLW)

Because of concern to provide students with accurate, up-to-date academic information, computer-assisted advising has been on the agenda for computer development. The state of art of computer-assisted advising is reviewed, and characteristics of leading programs in the country are analyzed. (MLW)

Academic advising must be accountable for its resources and program effectiveness. The Annual Plan approach of Brigham Young University gives advisers an opportunity to assess and reflect on advising's strengths and weaknesses and to design feasibility goals and objectives to improve the program. (MLW)

Literature on faculty relationships with new students (freshmen and transfers) as it relates to orientation programs is reviewed, and an experimental Brigham Young freshman mentoring program and its outcomes are discussed. Short-range goals were achieved, students were positively influenced, and program continuance was supported. (MSE)

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)