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Big Blue Bundle: Advancing Persistence from Day One
SHANNON HURT ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR CAMPUS LIFE SERVICES
“ The launch of the Big B model— it is a strategic overall student experien
Beginning in Fall 2026, ODU, in partnership with Barnes & Noble College will launch the Big Blue Bundle, a new course materials program designed to ensure students have access to required textbooks, digital resources, and instructional materials by the first day of class. Formerly known as First Day Complete, the Big Blue Bundle reflects the University’ s continued commitment to student success by directly supporting two critical priorities in higher education: retention and persistence.
Retention and persistence are often influenced by factors beyond the classroom, including affordability, preparedness, and timely access to academic resources. At ODU, increasing student retention is already a strategic priority, with the University setting a goal to raise the first time, full time retention rate to 82 % for the Fall 2028 cohort through expanded student success initiatives. Nationally, institutions recognize that students who begin the semester academically prepared are more likely to remain enrolled and continue progressing toward graduation.
cost or uncertainty. Through this program, students receive all required materials before classes begin at a lower negotiated cost, allowing them to fully participate from day one. This early access reduces academic barriers that can contribute to disengagement and attrition at the start of the term. According to Barnes & Noble College, students typically save 35 % to 50 % on course materials through inclusive access programs like this.
Consider a first-year student arriving on campus eager to succeed but weighing whether to postpone buying a $ 200 textbook until after their first paycheck or financial aid refund.
The Big Blue Bundle helps address one of the most common barriers students face: delayed access to course materials due to