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BGSU welcomes record-breaking freshman class; retention at 80% from last year

Here's what university leaders have to say about their Welcome Week activities and the impact it has on students.

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — The Bowling Green State University Falcons are back in class this morning, and leaders with the university said they are celebrating record-breaking enrollment and retention. 

According to the university, enrollment is up 22 percent compared to 2022, and up 12 percent compared to the fall of 2023. This fall, 3,900 incoming freshmen began classes at BGSU. Meanwhile, 4 out of 5 previous students are returning, with a record-high 80% retention rate from last fall. 

RELATED: BGSU freshmen arrive on campus as school reports record increase in enrollment

Cecilia Castellano, the Vice President for Enrollment Management at BGSU, said there are more than 200 majors at BGSU, and they are working to continue increasing engagement among students. Its opening weekend, she said, included activities meant to help all students feel at home. 

"I think students are really enjoying our welcome week," she said.  "Welcome started last week for new freshmen. Our current students just moved in over the weekend. We have all kinds of events for the next several weeks on campus," said Castellano. 

She said the university is ranked number one for the student experience in the Midwest. 

BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers said the beginning of a new academic year allows students to build their network and create new opportunities through new connections. 

RELATED: A look at Toledo and Bowling Green's 2024 football schedules

"The next couple weeks we have something going on every night," Rogers said. "A big part of college certainly, at its core, is academics and preparing them for great careers and great lives. But we believe you can have a little fun along the way. Because having fun, you'll learn and make connections and that's important and builds the network."

You can find out more about Bowling Green State University and their back to school events at their website here.

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