Daniel Fisher

I think there is a big difference between someone who seems 'unprofessional' and one that you can see may have struggles with the academics. The very first potential student I interviewed was one that, if there had been an admissions exam, would have probably not been qualified to enroll. After a great deal of discussion, allowing her to audit a class or two, and more discussions, we were able to suggest that she look at another type of school... it was the right thing to do.

Rosemary Frazier

I also agree with this statement. Part of the curriculum is professionalism and communication. I believe that is why they are making the decision to further their education to make a better life for themselves and to strive for a new career. I don't think it would be right to deter them from a life changing choice.

Marcia Edwards

This is great time to introduce the student to several departments on campus. Throughout the program they will learn from the example of other students, staff and faculty. Most of our programs have professionalism training as part of the curriculum.

Shaunina Saurer

I would agree. It is not our right or responsibility to turn away a student based on their current level of professionalism. I have met with students who have wanted to better themselves and go in a direction that I may not have believed were the best fit for them. Part of the education our students get is how to be a professional. How to think, act, and work as a professional. I believe that this is part of what we are here to do. Help them move into the life and career they desire to move into.

sheila mcintosh

i think it is very important to have a frank discussion with the potential student regarding their enrollment. If that person is not a good fit with the program, their chances for success decrease greatly. As an instructor, I have seen many students who should not have been enrolled flunk out or quit school because it was more than they could handle.

Sandra Armstrong

While we will not turn away any student who is qualified to enroll I do want to do the right thing for the student. I try to identify and address any potential challenges up front by getting to know the student and their history. Often I will arrange a one on one private meeting with a representative who assists students in their job search and skills to give them a realistic picture of what's ahead. I believe part of our responsibility is to teach students these skills.

Frances Neu

This situation is one of the reasons that a personal meeting with the potential student and the program chair is so important. Questions can be asked to further information on the circumstances that may be positive or negative for the student and the program.

Shawn Lawrence

After speaking with a student in depth, if I determine that something they have shared with me would conflict with their successful completion of the course or successful engagement of the career, I will diplomatically make them aware of it, so that they can ask further questions for clarification and perhaps determine if there might be a better fit for them. I feel obligated to make sure they are aware of every factor. For example, if a student is uncontrollable sick around body fluids, some medical paths may not be a successful fit for them, and I need to make them aware of those details.

However, if it is only my opinion that they would not be a good fit for their choice, without any grounding facts, and they fully qualify, then I have no interest in trying to discourage or refuse them.

Jim Dravec

This can be a very difficult situation for an admission's representative. As an agent, it is not my responsibility to pass judgement on applicants. I can voice concerns with that applicant, but I can't simply turn him/her away because I feel he/she is "unprofessional." I will clearly explain the admissions requirements, and if the student completes everything successful, I do not have the authority to turn him/her away.