Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Peggy-- It is important to bring up obstacles and fears, as most students have similar ones. This lets them know they aren't the only ones experiencing those particular fears. It also provides them with vehicles to resolve them as they arise. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Enhancing First Week Activities

Susan-- This is wonderful...then students feel like they are already in class before they arrive. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Sharing Student Information

Bryon-- Having students share their aspirations is a great thing...and in the midst of their anxiety over exams, etc. that happen later in their educational career its good to have them remember why they started. Keeping them focused on their desired outcome is a key to great retention. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Team Approach in Orientation

Byron-- Is the format of the orientation primarily presentations by these areas? Do you include an opportunity for the students to interact? Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Kathryn-- Very impressive! That is wonderful that you meet individually with each student. I image you learn all types of useful information to assist the students during those meetings. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Susan -- This is a great idea as well...putting a face in front of them again the first week as a 'go to' person for issues. What is on your questionnaire? Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Bryon-- As you have pointed out, helping students build a support system is extremely important. It shoulds as if your students are relocating to attend, in which case including information on community resources as well as providing them with individuals who will support them is critical. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

The video of your graduates is an especially great idea. Students love to 'see' themselves, successfully completing the program. It gives them an opportunity to feel they can succeed. Great idea!

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Sharing Student Information

This is most often the case. Students really do tell their admissions representative a lot about their hopes, fears and barriers. This information often does not get passed along to assist in retention efforts. It is great to hear that your education personnel do circle back, however, to get a better perspective concerning student issues. Susan

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Terry-- That's great, and so true! And 9 times out of 10 others have the same question, but framing it as a way for them to get the most out of their tuition investment is excellent.