In 1990, a study was conducted at Snead State Junior College (SSJC) of students who were enrolled at the college in fall 1989 or winter 1990 but did not return in the subsequent quarter. Of 661 students identified as nonreturning, 489 were surveyed by telephone to determine their reasons for not returning. Demographic data on these students were obtained from college records to generate a profile of nonreturning students and to compare demographic data with stated reasons for not returning. Study results included the following: (1) the nonreturning student profile did not differ greatly from the student body as a whole, although slightly more female and day students did not return; (2) younger students and male students dropped out more often because of conflicts between school and jobs, while female students more often cited family responsibilities; (3) 32% of the respondents indicated an intention to return to SSJC at a later date; and (4) except for difficulties with scheduling necessary classes, most of the reasons given by students for not persisting were related to factors external to and beyond the control of the college. Based on study findings, it was recommended that the schedule of classes be planned on a yearly basis and made available to counselors and students; that the college develop a plan for continuing contact with nonreturning students and develop a better system for long-range enrollment analysis; and that the study of attrition be repeated in 3 to 5 years. A literature review and the survey instrument are included. (JMC)