A student's perception of school commitment, and particularly the commitment of a person who they look up to, is very powerful, Anie. Do you assign a mentor/role model for each student? If so, how do you select them?
Many students do not receive the support they need to succeed from family and friends. Everyone in the institution plays a role in providing emotional support to the student. I think one thing that is very helpful is finding someone who can be a mentor/role model for a student who is at risk. Many times a student will feel driven to succeed if they believe someone in the institution has a high expectation in the student's abilities.
This situation is particularly dangerous when the pressure being exerted by peers and family members reflects the inner concerns of the student. I have seen successful students find a way to fail just before graduation, thus avoiding escape from their familiar world.
It is important to keep re-enforcing the dream for the student through contact with people employed in their field of study. Career fairs can be a useful tool to educate the graduate and their support group about what lies ahead.
