The fall to winter retention rate at Wartburg has fallen almost two percent this year making it the lowest retention rate in the past several years.

The retention rate is 93.9 percent this year, compared to the previous two years when the it was 95.7 percent.

Academic success, comfort level and financial problems were noted as the main reasons students choose to leave Wartburg. However, students who take a leave of absence or are suspended are also counted as non-returning students, Waldstein said.

“I think that sometimes students believe they’re going to save money by leaving a private college and going to a public university,” Waldstein said. “I really encourage those students to sit down and do the math because often times it’s not cheaper to go to a public university. And it’s rarely cheaper to go to a public university if you’re going to be there five or six years.” 

Allison Kirschbaum is transferring next year due to concerns with Wartburg’s size. 

“I feel Wartburg is a really good school, but it’s surrounded in a bubble and too small for my preference,” Kirschbaum said.

Administration accepting ideas to improve retention
Despite the lower retention rate this winter, Waldstein isn’t worried.

“It’s lower than I would’ve liked to seen, but in general, it’s very good. We just want to keep our eye on it. It’s a snapshot midyear; even though it’s lower, I don’t have any concerns,” Waldstein said. 

The Retention Committee is currently accepting proposals for ways to help improve retention among students. Proposals that are chosen will receive awards ranging from $500 to $1,000. Individuals and student organizations are eligible to submit proposals.

Although the retention rate is lower compared to rates in the past, Wartburg compares well to other colleges and universities, Waldstein said.

“We’re actually noted for a pretty high retention rate. It’s certainly much higher than at the public universities … and it’s relatively high even among private colleges and universities,” Waldstein said.