To gather data on student characteristics and attitudes, Missouri's Crowder College undertook surveys of current students in June and July of 1995. Data were compiled from results from an assessment test administered to 110 students in June 1995 and surveys conducted of 190 students at June and July orientations. Study findings included the following: (1) among subgroups of respondents, fully 56% of the males surveyed at orientation disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement that leisure reading was a favorite past time; (2) most of the students agreed that assigned readings allowed them to acquire exciting new knowledge; (3) approximately 25% of the students indicated that financial responsibilities and family problems had distracted them from their studies and educational goals; (4) the majority of students thought that tutorial, study, or test-taking training would make a significant contribution to their academic achievement; (5) 70% to 98% were resolved to complete their education despite obstacles; and (6) regarding elements in their academic past that they would do differently if they could, up to 66% indicated that they would miss fewer classes, up to 81% would study more, and up to 77% would take examinations more seriously. The survey instrument with tabulated results is appended. (TGI)