I am very active in the orientation for our students, and I always wonder about those students who come in with their children, or show up late because they don't have the support they need. I always make a point to go and speak with them, but sometimes students are frazzled. What is the best way to approach students like that from the very beginning?

Hello - We are about to begin a Student Mentor Program. Our students are all adult career changers and as such we want to be careful about demanding more of their time. Can you give us specifics about the "job description" and training quidelines that have been successful at your institution? Thanks

I think current student (or recent graduate) testimonials at orientation are so helpful! We have been inviting students to attend orietnation for some time now and I think it definitely helps the new students to feel more excited about the program and being able to visualize success in their own career. In addition,this also helps create a bond with the graduating students and we've had success with alumni paying it forward. Some of them end up in positions where they return to us as employers looking to hire our current students. So it really comes full circle. I also thought the part on including activities at orientation would be beneficial, especially with evening orientation/classes. Sometimes the night orientations can get mellow and dull. Keeping things lively and entertaining would definitely help boost interest and excitement.

I have found a few ideas that, if added to our current orientation, will enhance the experience for incoming students. I like the idea of inviting current students to "circulate" in the meeting room before the actual orientation starts. I also agree with the concept of having fun and engaging activities but not making them too corny. Maybe a Jeopardy type game with fun facts about the school...

I was introduced to a few ideas in this unit that I found to be interesting and "workable" in enhancing our existing retention program. I would love to implement a "lunch and learn" series where issues like stress management, financial management, parenting skills and health topics can be addressed in an informal setting. It would also be nice to have guest speakers at these events that highlight various professions. I think students would appreciate this time to come together, if only for a short time once a month.

If rention starts at admissions, what should the inital phone call consist of?

When you are organized it makes it easier to manage the classroom.

I have learned if you truly listen to the student it helps them trust you and respect you.

I feel we do need to treat our students as customers but we have to do it in a way that they know they are our #1 but need to respect us.

How are some ways you connect with your studets?

The perception of students have usually lead to their own reality. We must try to meet all realistic expectations

i found it important to constantly have interaction and keep students attention in order to keep there interest in the topic being discussed.

I believe some of us are naturals with interventions based on personalities and experience. With that said, sometimes, students connect with certain individuals with no hesitation especially if you speak to their level and listen to their needs. From the time of enrollment, with consistent communication interaction even after the program has started, gives the students a sense of peace. I don't just enroll them and play the role of student services post-after. I play the role of an Admissions representative and Student Services from the beginning so they have a knowing of someone is there to talk to in regards to their concerns. I may not always be able to fix their problems but can recommend further assistance.

I think it is very important for a student to feel wanted in the program. Sometimes I see instructors being too critical which makes a student feel defensive and want to walk away. I understand that there are different age groups and maturities, but in what positive way or feedback can I give our instructors to not deter the students away?

I feel that students have a positive connection with me at my school and can talk to me. They are able to express why they might possibly be unhappy, but there is also a comfort level that could go beyond that such as a friendship. Because I am there as student services and admissions, how do you maintain a level of too much comfort? I have not let that develop into friendships but want to make sure they continue to stay within the program.

I work in a vet tech program and most people think that all we do is play with animals all day long. We like for prospective students to see that what we actually do goes far beyond that. Our program is very challenging and that isn't immediately apparent. How can we encourage our school to require observational hours as part of the admissions process and what is considered a fair amount of hours?

What is the best way to approch not so friendly costumer?

The first week is crucial in the classroom, it sets the tone for the rest of their schooling. If the students are bored and feel that they have not learned anything within the first week, there goes retention.

It takes a village to reaise a child and it takes a school to raise a college graduate. There is not just one support person for students, there needs to be many. Everyone at the school should have their hand in whether the students are successful in their road to that college degree.