In its second year, the University of Montana’s Indigenous First-Year Experience (IFYE) program has reported a significant increase in retention rates among Native students. The number of students returning for a second year rose from 11 out of 17 in the first cohort to 17 out of 22 in the most recent group.
The IFYE program was created to address specific challenges faced by Indigenous students, such as culture shock and homesickness during their transition to college life. Program Director Cody Munson highlighted the importance of building community and providing culturally relevant support.
“Indigenous people and culture aren’t just a part of Montana’s history, but also a part of Montana’s present and future,” Munson said. “We are building a community of Indigenous students within the dorms and across campus. They hold each other accountable through support, while having an enriching college experience.”
Peer mentorship has played a central role in the program’s approach. According to Munson, former participants quickly take on mentorship roles for new students after experiencing the program themselves.
“We have students from past cohorts becoming peer mentors as soon as they can,” Munson said. “They are paying it forward to new students because they have benefited from the program and have dealt with the ‘culture shock’ of moving to Missoula.”
Students involved in IFYE participate in study sessions and attend events such as Nike N7-inspired basketball games at UM, which honor Indigenous peoples and cultures.
Despite these gains, some obstacles remain. Family expectations sometimes draw students back home before degree completion. Munson stated that ongoing efforts will focus on early engagement and leadership development within student cohorts.
Looking ahead, Munson said that keeping cohort sizes small helps strengthen community bonds among participants.
“We’ve found that a smaller cohort creates a stronger community,” Munson said.
The long-term aim is to further boost retention rates and help Indigenous students from rural tribal communities succeed in higher education.
UM President Seth Bodnar acknowledged both the contributions Native students make to campus life and UM’s commitment to meeting diverse student needs.
“This is a testament to what intentional support can achieve,” Bodnar said. “The IFYE program represents the tangible, positive impact we create when we work together to honor students’ unique experiences, strengths, cultures and journeys. We are made better when everyone has a path to success.”
