I've learned that Retention is doing the right things the right way - having the right people in the right place at the right time.

I intend to apply this knowledge when dealing with students, insuring they feel heard and supported.

A long story but it happened to me. I saw a student crying. She was almost at the end of the LPN program. I sat down with her away from others, and she explained the stressors of having an infant at home, the father left and financially strapped. I did not know about the "GAS adaption " but I knew that the the higher the stressors ,the higher the stress it put on the heart and blood vessels. So , I had a chat with her to explain the "fight or flight "response the body goes through  when under stress.… >>>

Comment on Saraliz Jimenez's post: 

All department is responsible for retention. Most students start their programs hoping to succeed, but they can face challenges along the way that make it hard to continue. These might include academic problems, financial issues, personal responsibilities, or insufficient support. I see the importance of spotting warning signs early and stepping in quickly, so I can better support students, keep more of them enrolled, and help more students finish their programs.

Exceptional customer service, combine with ongoing awareness of customer service trend, allows us to improve communication, efficiency and overall customers / student experience and contributes to positive reviews and referrals.

Admissions Representative plays a very crucial role in the determination process relating to retention of prospective students. They initially make a a vital assessment if the applicant is a good fit for a specific program. 

The "buddy" idea for late adds is something that could be effective and implemented relatively easily, provided you have a group of students who are reliable for such a thing.

It's important for faculty to be present at orientation and present themselves as people, and not just organizational police officers.  Also important to provide students and opportunity to engage and exchange information with one another.

Actively engaged in orientation efforts, collaborating with colleagues to present a unified and supportive presence, and intentionally creating spaces for students to interact with one another, using tools such as food, photos, enrollment packets, number exchange, testimonials. I hope to contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that supports both student confidence and long-term success.
 
 

Having a diverse group of faculty members participate in orientation helps students see that we are real, approachable, and genuinely invested in their success. It also creates meaningful opportunities for students to connect with one another, fostering a sense of belonging and helping them feel welcomed into the new community they are about to join.