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This study explores how students’ initial two years at college influence degree GPA and duration of completion. Results highlight the importance of the first two-year cumulative GPA and credits in forecasting degree outcomes. Early college credits and high school GPA impact success, guiding effective course planning. Implications encompass improved academic advising and collaboration between college and high school counselors. Suggested guidelines for minimum GPA and credits aid timely graduation. Future prospects involve extending the research to diverse institutions and student demographics.

Meng Ni, Ph.D.,is a strategic enrollment management data specialist and
functional analyst at University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL). Her career in
higher education began in 2017 as a faculty member and student advisor. At
UHCL, she develops data-driven enrollment strategies and provides input and
recommendations to the SEM team for goal setting and long-term planning. She
is a member of AACRAO and presented at the 108th Annual Meeting. Dr. Meng Ni
earned her B.S. from Sun Yet-sen University, China, and her Ph.D. from
University of Miami.

Kara Hadley-Shakya serves as the Associate Vice President for University
Admissions at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), commencing her role
in January 2024. Prior to that, she served as the Executive Director of
Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Houston-Clear Lake.
Hadley-Shakya is a SEM practitioner who brings more than fifteen years of
experience in higher education. Her experience in admissions positively
impacts students from diverse backgrounds and helps them attain their academic
and personal goals in a supportive and inclusive environment. She is a member
of AACRAO and presented at the 108th Annual Meeting. She earned her B.S. and
M.S. from St. Cloud State University.

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