Rachel Weygandt

I liked the idea of the first week or two being the most critical in reinforcing a student's decision to attend (and keep attending) and they don't feel truly comfortable in school, until after the first week. I didn't think about their family and friends asking them when they come home how it went, and if the day's activities hadn't been positive, it will begin to plant seeds of doubt.

I love the practical idea of having some sort of event the first week or two with FOOD, and having Admissions assist, as this as a time for them to… >>>

I am realizing just how important orientation is to the retention of our students. It is much more than just an information session; it's just as much about the students beginning to bond with one another and start to feel as a cohesive group who support one another!

I also learned the importance of connecting faculty to other faculty members within their discipline. Invariably, instructors may be subbing each other's classes, or students will need to make up missed hours, due to life issues. If possible, have more than one faculty member within that department at orientation, so students will… >>>

I really like the idea of having current students speak at our orientation, provide school tours, and act as 'mentors' for new students.

I also like learning about confronting "Buyers Remorse" by sharing information concerning students' goals and barriers, from admissions to continually build the value of completing our program and reassuring students they will be better off if they attend our school, than if they don't. 

Lastly I really enjoyed learning about valuable it is to make all students feel like they already belong after attending orientation, so when they leave, they will feel like they are already a… >>>

It's important when discussing the assistance students will receive when seeking employment opportunities to not say we help with job placement; however, refer to our services as job search assistance. Students perceive "job placement" as a guarantee we will find them a job after graduating without any work on their part. I also enjoyed the information pertaining to having students speak at orientation, provide school tours, and act as 'mentors' for new students. Lastly, I learned how important adding value to the educational experience takes planning and should become part of our culture. ‘Adding value' may include continuing personal interactions… >>>