Each of these programs evaluates its own effectiveness and impact on student retention. On balance, student services are organized into a wide range of administrative areas, which seems to work reasonably well. The array of counseling services provided through the Student Affairs Office is far more wide-ranging than one might expect from a University of its size. Advising, previously a concern on campus, has made major improvements. Innovations include peer advisors and training of resident advisors.
Resident advisors appear to be effective because of the immediacy of their location.
On the other hand, the effectiveness of the college peer advisors appears to depend more on the enthusiasm of the individual and to vary from department to department. The residence life office and the staff of residence hall advisors provide crucial opprtunities for student contact before major problems surface. This program appears to be underfunded in light of the objectives advanced. Other special programs include the Center for Academic Achievement, Summer College, Summer Institute, and the Summer Orientation Program. Recommendation Improving student retention rates at Syracuse remains both a high priority of the University and a complex issue to solve.