retention at the first point of contact
One thing that I have become more aware of in the past few months is the prospective student's expectations of his learning experience. We should base the orientation on anything more than what will actually take place during his or her training. By focusing their goals on the training, we are preparing them for the training experience more accurately.
I complete;y agree with you Chad. If all admissions rep would stick to the same story then when the professor would ask what brought them here they wouldnt have to share conflicting reason on what the rep had to say about the program their in
I agree, being com and cool, understandable always make them feel safe and trust!
Kelly ,
It is so important to tell an accruate story. Thanks, Kelly.
Dr. Larry Banks
I believe that is the best statement that has been made in regards to this topic. The misconception is that it is not always okay to tell the truth. "I do not know the answer to that question but I will find out." This would be a more acceptable response than making up an answer. Too many times I have overheard students being relayed incorrect information that can be avoided. This causes a break down in the future communication and trust with the student once they recieve accurate information.
On the first day of class it is important that we realize that for many students this is their first time away from home and that some students may be a little scared, they will wonder if they made the right choice. It is up to course one instructors to be able to recongize this and try to make the students feel confident of their abilities and choices they have made
You are right about that. Also, try to link the information to how your school will help them to enter into their careers.
Dr. B
true if the student has all theinformation going in than there more likey to stick with it and not feel as the school has let them down by not provideing falts promises
I believe saying what you will do,and do what you say will always work.This way there will be not misunderstanding.
Yes. Tone is critical and tone of, "you can do this, others have... here is what you will need to do." The key is to let them know that you are there to help them to be successful, but, they need to do there part, too.
Dr. B
I believe we set the tone on the first day of class. Let the students know what you expect of them and assist them to achieve that goal.
I have seen in recent times that, the best way to keep retention of students is not to promise more than the establishment can deliver. If the learning center does this, students will see it and drop before promises of recruiters can be broken.
You got it. Help them to relax, to visualize, and to become fascinated with the prospects.
Dr. B
First impressions and helping to limited the anixety level of potential students is a very important step to ensuring future students success.
Well said, Jennifer. You got the right idea. Do all you can to link all departments from the start of a student's program and retention will improve.
Dr. B
Retention does begin at the first point of contact, as does any relationship. The prospective student (and then student) needs to know where they stand in regards to the school and the program at all times. They must not feel cheated or left out. Orientation should focus on how to remain successful within the program- but it should also be an opportunity (1 more!) to let them know what to expect beyond the program of study. If they know where they are headed after school, it will be easier to maintain a positive relationship.
I work very closely with my students and start off each term with an icebreaker activity to get to know them well. This helps establish a strong rapport early on so that students know that I truly care and have a strong desire to see them become successful individuals in their chosen fields.
Isn't it our job to teach them the skill they need to be successful? I know it can be frustrating, dealing with students that have no skills at, but patience on our part can sometimes make them some of the best.
The best way to gain trust is to form relationships through school activities and mentoring programs. Consider the importance of activities.
Dr. B
Building trust with them is the key if you have there trust and relationship grows retention will be there. i try to gain there trust from the start hopefully that is helping .
