I feel that we need to keep all lines of communications open with the students throughout the entire time the student is here not just during orientation. Letting them know that you are there for them right away will help alleviate their fears.

Job placement is such a motivating factor to the success of that student. This is probably one of the first questions that a perspective student asks in the admissions process. If one looks at the overall "big picture" this is the final step and goal of their educational journey! The ability to provide a comprehensive employment skills training is a vital component. This is a huge step to prepare the student for their employment....and it begins NOW...don't wait until the last minute or even after graduation!

I cannot speak more on this topic. It is so crucial to the overall academic success of our students! It is so important that not just my self, as the Program Director, but for my instructors to know and understand their students. They have to be "in tune" and recognize when things may shift within their lives because it can and will ultimately interrupt their academic studies. For example, as i arrive to work this morning i had an email from my Academic Dean that my instructor came to her last night during class about concerns with a student. Come to find out that the student was having a financial hardship and resources were needed. We were able to immediately react and provide what we could through our food pantry here at the campus. But, immediately the Director of Student Affairs was contacted and she will now be able to provide the resources needed for this student. None of this would have happened if it wasn't for my instructor being "in tune" with the students and understanding them as a whole person! Early intervention is the key!

I have implemented a student mentoring program with the senior students to the freshman students. This has been an integral part of the retention process in the program. Retention is usually that one thing that we are trying to improve always. The ability to provide this assistance for another student has given such a positive jump start to the retention movement. If you do not have a mentoring program implemented, please do it! It truly works!

I feel that it is imperative that each program director can sit and have a face to face interview with the perspective candidate for their program. I also feel it very crucial to work closely with the admissions department so that there is an open line of coomunication. THis also helps establish the relationship that the admissions reps will reach out and find out the true detials to quesitons that they know nothing about. I have really made sure that I work hand in hand with the admissions team, because truly it is a two-way street that needs to be walked by both deparmtnets to ensure quality education for that perspective student!

How do people incorporate other students into their orientations?

Instructors have a very important role in retention. Sometimes it is difficult to connect with students because instructors teach so many classes. I like to use the Dear Teacher letter as a means to connect. This is just a weekly writing telling me how their week has been and they are allowed to write about anything. They also ask me questions and I answer them, making the letters more personal. This way I get to learn about issues they are having and they feel a connection to me. Sometimes you just have to ask. Like the reading said, many students wait until it is too late to ask for help.

First impressions mean everything. I was walking through the hallway and had something on my mind and did not greet a new student, later i had that student in one of my classes and the student didnt warm up to me for days later i talked to the student and found out they were holding on to the moment that i did not great them to make them feel welcome.

I believe that consistence is the key. You have to let the student know that you are there and always asking how the are and if they need anything. That lets them know you care and your always following up with them and monitoring them at all times.

my mentor allowed me to think on my feet and be able to learn from my mistakes.

I am very active in the orientation for our students, and I always wonder about those students who come in with their children, or show up late because they don't have the support they need. I always make a point to go and speak with them, but sometimes students are frazzled. What is the best way to approach students like that from the very beginning?

Hello - We are about to begin a Student Mentor Program. Our students are all adult career changers and as such we want to be careful about demanding more of their time. Can you give us specifics about the "job description" and training quidelines that have been successful at your institution? Thanks

I think current student (or recent graduate) testimonials at orientation are so helpful! We have been inviting students to attend orietnation for some time now and I think it definitely helps the new students to feel more excited about the program and being able to visualize success in their own career. In addition,this also helps create a bond with the graduating students and we've had success with alumni paying it forward. Some of them end up in positions where they return to us as employers looking to hire our current students. So it really comes full circle. I also thought the part on including activities at orientation would be beneficial, especially with evening orientation/classes. Sometimes the night orientations can get mellow and dull. Keeping things lively and entertaining would definitely help boost interest and excitement.

I have found a few ideas that, if added to our current orientation, will enhance the experience for incoming students. I like the idea of inviting current students to "circulate" in the meeting room before the actual orientation starts. I also agree with the concept of having fun and engaging activities but not making them too corny. Maybe a Jeopardy type game with fun facts about the school...

I was introduced to a few ideas in this unit that I found to be interesting and "workable" in enhancing our existing retention program. I would love to implement a "lunch and learn" series where issues like stress management, financial management, parenting skills and health topics can be addressed in an informal setting. It would also be nice to have guest speakers at these events that highlight various professions. I think students would appreciate this time to come together, if only for a short time once a month.

If rention starts at admissions, what should the inital phone call consist of?

When you are organized it makes it easier to manage the classroom.

I have learned if you truly listen to the student it helps them trust you and respect you.