retention starts in admissions
As an academic staff member, what can we do to bridge the gap of retention that has most often been cut off once the student is enrolled?
i.e. most, not all, of admissions representatives does not maintain a relationship with the prospective students which often times leaves us 'picking up the pieces'.
I agree. I love how you note honestly discuss expectations. This is a key to improving retention.
Dr. B
I have often found that students are thrilled to be in college when they first begin the experience--okay--happy. Some of the students are scared, some are nervous, some feel that there is nothing they can't accomplish. As the quarter or semester continues, the students begin to wonder why they ever came to school. The find that balancing their already busy life in addition to school is almost if not indeed too much to do. When students go to college, many of them have a "pie in the sky" idea that college is going to be all right; however, the students forget or don't think beyond each day. They don't know that there are tests, clinicals, papers, and various other assignments. I like the idea that Admissions sits down with the potentially new student and honestly discusses what college requires. Also, a potential student could sit in on a class in his/her major or in a general education class. The students need to know that there is more to college than glitz and glitter--there is also some "grunt work to do as well".
I agree, the first contact starts with admissions, however continuing with that student throughout the first quarter the student will start feel more secure with succeeding within the program chosen. Also building a relationship with the instructor just to monitor a students' progress will also become valuable information in evaluating statistical information regarding future students.
I can not say it any better, reps must stay in touch with with there students,from cadle to the grave.
admission staff should also be knowledgeable about the course the student is taking so that the staff can be truthful and outright with question/s asked and not second guessing.
I understand. However, do your best to link and pass the baton without dropping it. Retention is the business of all staff and faculty. After all, this would be student success.
Dr. B
I agree, alot if not most of our students are leaving home,family,and friends for the first time in there lives. This becomes a very scary moment for them. The more aware of whats to be expected of them with as little surprises as possible is very important for retention. We handle this with alot of support from other staff members. Admission Reps. are a key role in retention but it doesn't stop there. The students get alot of support from Student Services, Student sucsess Mentors, Instructors, Houseing,Financial Aid, and even one another.
It is true that in most cases, admissions reps have no communication with the students once they are enrolled. As faculty, all we can do as faculty is to be very frank and direct about the demands and expectations of the program.
The idea is to link and carefully pass the baton by running together.. at least for the first term.
DR. B
I agree this has been very difficult for us in that admissions is the first person that the student "trusts" and then they fall out of the picture.
It is important that the student gets a clear and concise picture of what he will be learning and to what extent so they are no surprises. Then they should also realise where they stand as regards to job placement at the different levels of education offered. Also how they can benefit from all the services available from the support services in the schools.
The best way to increase retention is to be completely honest. Far too often we are concerned with meeting quotas for the month, and NOT focusing on the student's best interests. Students need to be informed as to what will help them be successful at the school. Proper study habits, attendance, and a positive attitude. It must be clear that work schedules and housing should be situated before the first day of school. If the students know what to expect and what challenges they may face, they will be more successful.
I agree. It is my experience that new students like to feel secure /well taken care of when in a new school environment, therefore their admission representative, being their first contact, become their comfort zone. It is extremely important that these representatives develops a sincere and genuine relationship and an open door policy with each and everyone of their valued enrollees. As well as great communication with the faculty of the program of choice.
Attending at risk meetings with other departments
Why should commission solely go to that student's admissions representative?
Afterall doesn't it take a village, in our case financial aid, academics, student services, and other vital departments to maintain retention success of the student body?
I agree that we need to have motivation until the end of the process. Getting a commission after the student graduates and is a success on a job would be much better and would really show retention success as well.
I agree, many of the students are processed rapid. Long as they take the admission test, pass they are placed into programs that cause student failure.
I feel strongly that the admission rep. student process should be more structured. It would be great to have applicants complete the Applicant Qualification Checklist.
It is all about linking early in the process. The school needs to be a team. Retention is the bussiness of all staff.
Dr. B
This is a great idea. Anything you can do to gain empathy is good. Try to form a relationship with the reps. Let them know that you want them to meet their goals and the best way is to work together to tell the same story. Link into enrollment... be an advocate and get them to trust you, too.
Dr. B
