Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Karen, Excellent! I love the inclusion of the webcam so that students can put a face on people. The more interactive we can make orientations (virtual or otherwise), the better! Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Sharing Student Information

Pamela, These sound like wonderful tools to help faculty understand each individual student and how they can assist them. Great! Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Adrian, Wonderful! Having faculty available for both formal and informal conversations is a great way to introduce students to the school and the academic environment. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Enhancing First Week Activities

Pamela, This sounds great! Nothing better than free food :) Do you get many students stopping to pick up information or ask questions? Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Enhancing First Week Activities

robin, Great! How do you choose these peers? Do you have some type of program for tracking contacts, referrals, etc.? Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Richard, Food is always a great idea! It provides a more relaxed atmosphere for interaction. Kudos that all your faculty are involved! Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Susie, Great! It is wonderful that you reach out and connect with the students prior to the start of class. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Team Approach in Orientation

renard, I am excited that you include the receptionist---this is the first face of any institution and critically important! Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Addressing Student Fears

Edwin, Great point. Letting students know they are not alone and others have successfully navigated the road they are currently taking is extremely helpful and encouraging. Susan Backofen

Susan Backofen

Discussion Comment

Enhancing First Week Activities

Amalo, As a prior adult graduate student, I know some type of orientation would have been very welcome. The institution I attended did have a required first semester course in which they built in some of this. Do you have something similar? Susan Backofen