Retention does start with admissions
The new student builds a relationship with the admissions advisor. If the rep is positive and engaging, the student is more apt to feel part of the school. They are also likely to refer more friends.
terri,
A formal handoff is an initiative to consider.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I agree. The admissions advisor is the one that make that first bond with and they will go back and talk to them about things they are not yet ready to talk to an instructor about. Instructors can get alot of information from the admisions advisor sometimes.
Dennis,
Providing product knowledge to the Admissions reps on an ongoing basis helps them to be prepared to set that good first impression.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I believe that the first impression will last from the admissions rep will set the tone of their program. It is the ole saying" you don't get a second chance to make a first impression."
Wendy,
True. Yet all departments need to support each other and instructors need to feel confident that other departments have their back.
Ron Hansen, Ed. D.
I agree that ALL staff are involved in retention. Although retention may BEGIN with admissions and/or end with Program Directors, etc., what goes on in the classroom is a key factor as to whether or not a student will come back to class. Students enjoying their classes is key in the MOTIVATION department. Although retention is definitely a TEAM effort, Instructors certainly play in what I feel to be the LARGEST ROLE in retention.
I believe that first impressions really count. The admissions rep must strive to make a positive first impression. The rep must also have good knowledge of the course work required and potential job ops in the community.
Brian,
I am glad that your school tries to involve all in the retention process.
Dr. Larry Banks
Definitely. It is dependent on many factors but often times the relationships we form with the students, both as admissions rep and faculty, help drive the success of our students.
Jeff,
All staff are involved in retention. If the school insists that retention is all employees responsibility, retention will improve.
Dr. Larry Banks
I fully agree that it starts with the admin. reps. but all the employees have an effect on retention, from the security guard to instructors. From financial aide to the operator. EVERYONE has an effect on retention.
Catherine,
Yes, this makes a difference and if you add academics to the mix, can you imagine how much that will help retention?
Dr. Larry Banks
