Orientation and Mentoring
I view orientation as the initial impression stage. I believe a strong mentoring framework is even more critical. You have to give the learner a reason for coming to school.
Orientation may not be the first impression of the school but it is the key for a student to succeed. All departments need to participate with orientation so the student has the opportunity to ask questions, learn about processes, etc. before they officially start down their educational path.
I would agree. Mentoring is a critical part of retention.
I feel like the more ready the student feels the less stress the have and more there going to learn.
When a propsective student walks into the school and interacts with anyone connected to the school (front desk, etc), this is where the first impression begins. This can make or break whether the student enrolls. Ever walk into a restaurant and have a bad interaction with a host/hostess? That can set the tone for the rets of the night, regardless of whether the food is good or bad. The first impression is critical as referrals are critical to success as well...word of mouth. Mentoring is a great tool to make the student feel a sense of community and to be able to seek guidance.
When I see tour groups in the halls or outside our classroom, I will stop, listen, and answer any questions they may have. If possible, I will even let them in to tour our advanced program classroom. I see this as a way to connect with potential students and to show them that we, as intructors, do care. I will talk about other subjects with my students, joke with them, help them during activities, and whatever else it takes to make them feel welcome and that they deserve to be here. I try to keep lectures lively and interesting, and keep them informed on their progress. But as a mentor, I take every opportunity as it arises to relate the subject matter at hand to the real world. I can explain the good times and bad times, and how to avoid making errors in their careers.
I feel that when the student first meets with admissions for a tour, talks with the different departments such as financial aid, and signs up for classes this is the intial impression. Orientation is so the student knows where their classes are, and everything they need to know to be successful.
