Susan Backofen

Stephen-- Excellent point. Keeping a 'future' goal in front of them early and frequently helps keep student motivated. I like relating the two... future coursework and future employment. Susan

Carmen-- It certainly sounds like you take a personal interest in each student and make them feel at home. I especially like listing their names on a board at the entrance. Nice touch! Susan

There are several national, standardized test out there (e.g. ASSET) who could help you determine if students need specific help in certain basic academic areas such as math, reading, writing, etc. Additionally, there some some web-based assessments that help students determine their 'readiness' for school by measuring their computer literacy, time management, etc. READi is one of those. Here's their link http://www.readi.info/ Susan

Stephen-- It certainly sounds like your whole team is actively involved. I especially like that the student services and financial aid staff are also visible the first day of classes. Often we forget about that as we are so busy processing paperwork. Great job! Susan

Kaitlin-- Excellent strategy. Sounds like you have the right mix of ingredients. Do you have some assessment you do during the enrollment process to help identify those who need assistance in certain areas? Susan

David-- What a fun idea! People always retain more when it is an enjoyable experience and it sounds like you make your class just that. Kudos! Susan

Bruce-- Keeping students focused on the end-goal is one of the most effective retention tools. Good job! Susan

Craig-- Absolutely true! We need to keep their end goal in front of them as often as possible (employment). Continually reminding them and reinforcing that what they are learning in the classroom has practical application on-the-job is an important and effective retention tool. Susan

Jeffrey-- Career Services does play an extremely important part for the reasons you've noted above. Also, keeping students focused on the outcomes (employment) is a huge retention point as well. They enroll with us because they want to prepare for a career. Often, however, 'life' gets in the way and they become overwhelmed or discouraged. Keeping the end in mind for them is helpful. Susan

Leslie-- I couldn't agree more with your assessment of the outcomes for an effective orientation. Do you have some things that have been especially effective at your institution? Susan