This report discusses strategies to increase the retention rate of students in the following Special Programs sponsored by the City University of New York: (1) Search for Education, Elevation and Knowledge (SEEK); (2) the College Discovery Program (CD); and (3) the College Discovery and Development Program (CDDP). Section 1 covers strategies used for high school level students. Section 2 describes strategies used for entering freshmen. Section 3 covers the following special curricula: (1) English as a Second Language; and (2) MAPES (Minority Assistance Program in Engineering and Science). Section 4 presents research approaches to studying retention strategies. Section 5 discusses counseling workshops and practices for the following student groups: (1) single parents; (2) families and significant others; (3) black males; (4) study groups; and (5) high school and college counselors. Section 6 is comprised of responses from Special Programs students. Notes on contributors are included. A copy of an Educational Development Plan is appended, along with 71 references. (JS)