LAP and SmartStart students are overwhelmingly low-income, first-generation students.  The reality of these designations renders many unprepared to meet the demands of college life.  Not only do these programs allow such students to begin their college experience in greater control of their “home” atmosphere by providing residential housing but they also provide academic and emotional support.  Even with such support, the challenges are daunting.  However, the retention rates among students involved in LAP and SmartStart are encouraging.