Orientation is the sample of what is to come. We need to make orientation not only informative, but it should also be easy, interactive and fun. This is the first experience that the student will have. They need to see everyone as their biggest cheerleaders, and that they will have a whole team behind them to ensure their success. 

I consider it a valuable practice to understand each student's individual goals, needs and experiences. Building meaningful connections with students and engaging them with current students can help create a supportive environment. 

Supporting our students on all levels. Seeing them as a whole, they are not just a student. They are a whole person with a story that comes with them way before they started school. Stressors are unavoidable but helping them during the cycle is what will help them see to that they can keep going and achieve their dream. 

Retention is a campus wide effort; we all play a role in keeping our students. The student's journey is not linear, they are bound to have ups and downs. We need to be proactive in recognizing red flags.