Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Dewayne, I agree and also applaud you for doing the same. This exercise tends to make everyone in the room more 'human' and take some of the stress away. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Richard, How do you introduce the students to each other? Are there specific exercises you utilize to do this? Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Melissa, I am very interested in how your department is structured. Are you specifically student advocates and persistence or are there other responsibilities as well? Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Lee, Sounds like fun! You indicate the campus leadership attends, do faculty as well? Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Team Approach in Orientation

Keegan, It is wonderful that you include so many faculty. I agree, it helps the students feel more comfortable when they see them in classes. Great job! Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Luz, Reinforcing that your classroom is a learning 'lab' for everyone is an important point. For whatever reason, students feel like they should already know the material...or that everyone else does. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Dawna, Many of our adult students, as you point out, have a great deal to juggle while they are pursuing their education: employment, family, children, etc. They bring a great deal to the classroom, but also have a great deal on their mind. A little encouragement can go along with with all our students. Great job. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Dale, It sounds like it would be a great opportunity to involve more of the campus in orientation. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Jennifer, Sounds like a wonderful introduction! Providing them with suggestions and resources immediately helps them to feel like they have a support system readily available. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Joseph, It is always helpful for the students to hear personal examples from the faculty about their own experiences. It makes us more 'human' and acknowledges their fears. Great job. Susan Backofen