Use real world examples of role models and previous success stories to let them know how there are no limits..
I think that people appreciate honesty. In the long run, concealing information or not telling the truth could have a larger impact on a student's career than simply being upfront with them from the beginning. Honesty is always the best policy, even if it is not always the easiest one.
As an Admissions Representative, its my role to advise the student of what programs are available, how those programs are administered, and what is required (legally) of the student to graduate. Ethically, I feel its important to share my insights regarding the challenges and the opportunities for success a student may face baced on their chesen field of study.
It is not my job to place my biased opinion on ones ability to achieve based on my own defininitions of performance and ability. Ultimately, the student has to make the choice. However, as an institution, we have to be vigilant in our practice of providing fair and equal access to career education for everyone.
You should only respond to questions with which you are trained to answer. As an admissions rep it is my job to inform PGEs about the program not the manner in which it is completed.
It is natural to feel the need to say what is on your mind and give an honest answer but there are times when you must limit yourself to what can be legally said instead.
You need to evaluate each standard individually as a group.
B,
I totally agree. We can, and should do our jobs to the best of our ability. But, after that, it's still in the hands of the student.
Sarah Smoger
As a Career Services Advisor it is my job to work with students to guide them into functional and employment areas that are a match for success. Bottom line though I can discuss barriers, opportunities for success, and help guide, but the ultimate decision is the students.
I know if it was myself I would want someone to be honest with me. As insrtuctor I know my students feel the same way.
I work in health care education therefore that's all that I can really comment on, that being said, all health care programs should have technical standards. When the standards are inappropriate they must be clarified so all students will know what will be required of them upon completion of the program. When clarifying the standards be honest with both the students and the staff. No one should be "set up for failure". We should give all students the ability to succeed in the field they choose as well as giving the educators students that can meet both the technical and educational standards.
Cindy ,
I totally agree. I all of my years in higher education and working with students (and their families), the one that that they value is someone who is genuine, understanding, willing to advocate when necessary, but above all, honest about what is expected of each student in the classroom.
Sarah Smoger
Everything in life is open to challenge but you can't avoid the necessary. Anytime you are approaching an issues / topic that can be controversial then one must use wisdom.
In my years of experience as working as an administrator in the educational field, I've noticed that people, especially those with a disability like a person who will just be honest with them.
I would approach the academic unit on campus with facts; having done my research to explain the adverse effect dealing with inappropriate technical standards.
Opposition may come but ultimately we must do what's right for our consumer despite the challenge we may face.
