I cannot speak more on this topic. It is so crucial to the overall academic success of our students! It is so important that not just my self, as the Program Director, but for my instructors to know and understand their students. They have to be "in tune" and recognize when things may shift within their lives because it can and will ultimately interrupt their academic studies. For example, as i arrive to work this morning i had an email from my Academic Dean that my instructor came to her last night during class about concerns with a student. Come to find out that the student was having a financial hardship and resources were needed. We were able to immediately react and provide what we could through our food pantry here at the campus. But, immediately the Director of Student Affairs was contacted and she will now be able to provide the resources needed for this student. None of this would have happened if it wasn't for my instructor being "in tune" with the students and understanding them as a whole person! Early intervention is the key!