Crystal Arellano

Orientation is a great opportunity to create a welcoming, informative, fun environment for new students. This can help reassure students who may have had buyers remorse about committing to your school. 

I have learned that student expectations are much higher than they ever have been and schools should be able to meet those expectations if they want to improve retention. Students have high expectations for faculty, career preparation, and the school's credibility. 

I've learned that there are several factors that impact a student's decision to stay at a school from campus resources, classroom instructions, and even communication tools. That being said, the institution should create a culture that allows all departments to focus on the success of the student. 

I have learned that an intervention could be very crucial in a student's academic success. Simply explaining their circumstances to another person, could help them identify the root of their problems. Although interventions are very important, it is also very sensitive which is why it is very helpful to use the 8 stages of Intervention Model. The student will not open up unless they feel supported. 

I've learned that we all go through the general adaptation syndrome but others are able to cope with stress better than others. Providing resources to students could potentially help them cope with stressors better and allow for a less overwhelming adaptation syndrome. 

I learned that there is no universally accepted definition for retention. Every department may associate a different meaning with this word. Although we all may have a different meaning for it, overall it is a by-product of doing the right thing and it is everyone's responsibility to ensure the retention of the institution.