The school 'makes every effort' [=the school does all that it can] 'to help' new students become adjusted to college life.
His novel's surprise ending is not really convincing, but we'll give him 'an A for effort'.
He wanted to contribute in some way to the 'war effort'. [=to the effort to win the war]
(..) It's become so peaceful. I wish I had good news for Detroit. I have very sad news. Despite our best efforts to save him. Alex Murphy passed away just hours ago. - Alex Murphy... - Mr. Sellers. What is it? Mattox just called. (..)2014 RoboCop