Surroundings
I do believe that the surroundings of the school or facility make a statement. It is the first thing that the students sees when they walk into the school or office. The idea of having framed posters, plants, and decorations will make a difference. When the student walks in that's the first impression they will remember.
Wendy,
I think this is a great point – not only in regard to décor, but in all aspects of organizing our physical space. Loud conversations and busy foot-traffic can be as distracting as a messy desk. We can keep our offices inviting and professional by limiting personal conversations to private staff areas and not meeting with students in areas where other students and personnel are constantly passing through. Privacy also helps students feel more at ease when providing confidential financial information.
Kellee Gunderson
I think that the surroundings are important. This will help the student focus more on what is being said instead of what is all around them. If you are unorganized and have files and stacks of papers everywhere this will create a distraction to the student.
JoAnne,
The FA offices I have personal experience with have been cold and hectic, and while we all appreciate how difficult the job can be during peak months, that type of environment definitely created boredom and agitation in the students waiting for assistance. I would certainly want to come to your office with such a welcoming atmosphere!
Kellee Gunderson
I couldn't agree more...I keep the lighting soft and low in my office, and the artwork emits a feeling of calm and peace. Low, soft music adds to the mix... I receive comments from students daily stating how relaxing my office is, and how stress-free the whole FA process was for them!!
Therese,
I very much like your phrase, "seriousness of purpose". Many of us have had the experience of a coworker with an insanely messy desk or cubicle who somehow knows exactly where everything is. I once had a manager like this- her space was chaotic, but after seeing her in action for a few months, we learned that every sticky note and every scattered pile had a known purpose.
Unfortunately, most students do not have the opportunity to get to know us over time. They come to our office once, and if we are lucky they will return. Sloppiness can give the impression that we do not care or that we are not competent professionals, even when this is not the case.
Kellee Gunderson
First impressions are indeed important. Everyone likes the "feeling" they get from a clean and organized space - it helps them to think clearly and implies a seriousness of purpose. Students in such an environment will take discussions about their obligations more to heart.
Myles,
Thank you! We have given fairly general suggestions about atmosphere, but I appreciate your suggestion for a very simple yet concrete way of making our offices more inviting.
Kellee Gunderson
I completely agree with this. Schools often overlook the "warm and caring" feeling with their appearance.
One thing our institution has done is encourage staff/faculty to bring in personal items such as family photos, sports team memorabilia, items to make our office or space look more personable.
That way, our students feel at home, relaxed and realize we are real people outside of the office.
Erin ,
Maintaining a welcoming atmosphere helps staff as well as students. A cold or messy office suggests that we don’t want to be there any more than the students do, while a pleasant, comfortable space helps us stay in a positive mindset.
Kellee Gunderson
Cheryl,
This is so true. If it feels sterile and cold in the office the students feel that sense of intimidation and disconnect. I like to keep my space very inviting and comfortable for the students.
Sharita,
Excellent point! There are many ways to build rapport with students and parents, and the atmosphere in our offices definitely contributes.
A clean, professional, and engaging décor will leave the subtle impression that we value our jobs and our institutions, and this can help students take us and their academic and financial responsibilities more seriously.
Kellee Gunderson
First impression is everything, having a welcoming atmosphere will make student feel more comfortable and will prompt them to feel secure when they are in your presence.
Aurelio,
Providing a warm welcoming atmosphere in the office will help make it less intimidating to students. It will also provide the staff an atmosphere that is more enjoyable to work in. An inviting office with happy staff will encourage students to stop in with their questions.
Cheryl Kesson
Aurelio,
Providing a warm welcoming atmosphere in the office will help make it less intimidating to students. It will also provide the staff an atmosphere that is more enjoyable to work in. An inviting office with happy staff will encourage students to stop in with their questions.
Cheryl Kesson
