Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Jessica-- These are excellent techniques and yes, I agree that being so accessible in a variety of ways is encouraging and comforting to students. Great job! Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Team Approach in Orientation

Agnes-- How interesting! I don't think I have ever heard of Career Services being the POC for orientation, but I like the idea a lot!!! A career is, after all, the reason they are returning to school. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Agnes-- Excellent advice and information that I'm sure they are surprised to hear. While students all have these feelings sooner or later, it is rare that we acknowledge that. Great job! Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Sharing Student Information

Carolyn-- The peer support group can be a wonderful thing and is an important part of the retention model. Unfortunately, sometimes it also works in reverse if one or two of the group become disengaged. Do you have any process for interacting with students who are overwhelmed or exhibiting red flag behavior (e.g. attendance issues, late assignments, etc.) Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Carolyn-- You are absolutely correct. Students have different comfort levels in their communication options. Face-to-face is always ideal because you get to read the non-verbal cues as well. That said, I have found an increasing number of students who prefer electronic communication because it is much less threatening. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Wagner-- Sounds like you do an excellent job of addressing their fears and providing them reassurance they are not on this journey alone. Great job! Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

David-- It certainly sounds like you make every effort to address those fears up front...and telling stories 'on yourself' helps put them at ease. Great job! Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Kristin-- You certainly sound like the ideal first-term instructor! Providing students with your personal story and addressing test taking strategies is an excellent way to acclimate them to the academic environment and provide them with support. Great job Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Team Approach in Orientation

Audrey-- I really love the 'grad prep' terminology! Sets the tone right up front. Great job! Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Katelynn-- Excellent! As you point out, this allows them to begin building that peer support group as well, which is a very important part of achieving their goals. Great job! Susan