Susan Backofen

James-- First, welcome and glad you were able to reconnect to the class! What types of activities, etc. do you do with your students to reinforce the wise decision and that they can succeed? Do you have some senior students give testimonials or play a tape or ???? Susan

Tammy-- Great additions! I especially like the idea of including the 'what do you want me to tell you if you think about withdrawing'. The importance of including the support system (3rd parties) is critical to the student's success. Excellent process to include them in the Admissions process. I'm assuming that information then gets passed on to faculty or whomever works with students on retention issues. Susan

Good for you--implementing these types of practices college-wide will make a huge difference. I REALLY liked this idea. It helps the students to face their fears and frustrations and can also be a great retention tool. But giving them back at the end is an outstanding touch. Congrats, by the way, on taking on the Director of Education role.

Isn't it?! How wonderful to have students actually 'do' something related to their program during orientation....kind of a jump start on their education. As you've noted, I'm sure students leave very excited to come back the first day! Susan

Yes, I really like that idea as well. There are certainly some excellent ideas out there from our fellow institutions! Of course, the effectiveness of these ideas depends on making sure the facilitator/faculty member (whomever is doing that particular activity)is keyed in to the 'mission' of the activity. Student bonding, in some respects, is the single most effective things we can help create. The ability for them to keep each other in school can be an awesome and wonderful thing!

Personal stories are always an excellent idea. It lets students know that they are not alone in how they are feeling--that they can succeed and 'survive'. Your being able to address this from your perspective is great. Having current students and graduates also can help with this. The key is to have them connect with SOMEONE as quickly as possible (other students, faculty, staff). Susan

Tammy-- Excellent...especially giving all the contact info including email addresses. The more opportunity you can give students to form those bonds with ANYONE at the institution, the better. Good for you! Susan

Hi, Tammy! I like the idea of the student newsletter; especially when it includes stories to help support student success. You are absolutely correct that encouraging them is critical given they may not be getting that kind of support outside of the institution. It is very difficult for adult students to return to school. Do you do anything specific during your orientation to address potential student fears?

Andrews-- Absolutely! If everyone would simply take an interest as they interact with students, it is amazing how far this goes in helping students bond with the institution. Good for you! Keep up the good customer service. Susan

Kathleen-- I know what you mean about names...except it sounds like you are much better with it than I. For whatever reason, that is difficult for me but I am able to remember little details about them like having pets, or their goals. Remembering something about them is important and builds community. Making students feel special and connected is the name of the game! Susan