Expulsion In Sight: How a Success Plan Can Turn The Year Around

Starting college was a huge transition for Amina. An out-of-state student with no existing social connections, she latched onto the first group of friends she met—a group that revolved around heavy partying.

  • Within just three weeks, she:

  • Skipped several classes

  • Received four alcohol violations, one requiring medical attention

  • Experienced a situation that bordered on an attempted assault

  • Was formally warned that another violation would lead to expulsion

Despite this, Amina initially dismissed the warnings, telling herself the rules were too strict. But deep down, she was afraid, afraid of losing her only social connections and unsure how to make new ones.

Unfortunately, things only got worse. That same week, she racked up two more violations, again requiring medical assistance. At this point, she was told she would be expelled.

Panicked and overwhelmed, Amina finally asked for help. Together, we created a Success Plan—one that convinced the college to give her one final chance.

A Success Plan That Changed Everything

Amina’s plan wasn’t just about staying enrolled—it was about building the habits and support systems needed for long-term success.

  • Understanding the Risks

    • She participated in a structured learning experience on alcohol safety, risk reduction, and self-reflection.

    • The program included real-life case studies, role-playing scenarios, and guided discussions that helped her clarify her beliefs, values, and goals regarding alcohol.

  • Building a Support System

    • Amina met regularly with a counselor to work through her social anxiety and her fear of leaving her friend group.

    • She developed strategies to step away from the party scene and connect with new people in healthier ways.

  • Recommitting to Academics

    • Amina agreed to attend classes consistently and make up any missed work within two weeks:

  • Finding a New Community

    • She was encouraged to join a club or campus activity outside of her friend group to build a healthier social circle aligned with her values.

For one week, we checked in daily to keep her on track. After that, we shifted to weekly check-ins for six weeks. In that process, we developed a close working relationship, where she allowed herself to be vulnerable and open to mentoring.

Success Well Earned

Amina’s turnaround wasn’t instant or easy. At first, she felt hesitant about stepping away from her old friends, and meeting new people was intimidating. But over time, things began to shift.

By the end of the semester:

  • She earned slightly above-average grades

  • She didn’t receive any more violations

  • Her drinking habits improved, and she developed healthier coping strategies

  • Most importantly, she gained confidence in herself and her ability to navigate challenges

Ultimately, Amina realized that she needed a fresh start. Together, we explored colleges that aligned better with her needs—places where she could thrive both academically and socially. She transferred schools and made the most of her second chance.  

At her new school, Amina thrived! She graduated (only having to pay for 1 extra semester) with a high GPA, strong support network of friends, family, and mentors, the confidence to face her challenges, and a clear career path.

Cogi InSight

Amina’s story shows that early college missteps don’t have to define a student’s future. When students develop effective coping strategies, build positive support networks, and fully engage in the academic experience, they dramatically increase their chances of success.