Keeping perceptions of future success not as easy...but as possible
I've always pushed the idea in 22 years of work in post-secondary schools...that whether a student advisor, or a job placement officer that students must be taught they success is real...and possible; even probable; but NEVER as easy.
This is especially important because if if success is presented in this manner; the student knows the professional is merely mouthing words, and doesn't really feel the words s/he is saying.
When a student doesn't feel you feel what you're saying...they feel that they have no realistic chance at success; and you actually INCREASE the chance of the student dropping. They asume you're doing something you're supposed to do; rather than doing what you know to be truie, and what you believe.
How have some of the professionals here accomplished that task at their schoiols?
I agree, Robert, that trust is essential. Students know when someone is being disingenuous. Furthermore, they know that if success is easy, they would already be successful. Students want to feel challenged in a supportive environment. They know that it's important to stretch and expand their skill base. Honest feedback is critical to their development as they form their expectations for the future.
We not only share our personal success stories but also the trials we all faced gettting to where we are. We also have professionals form our industry come in and spaek to groups of students about there experiences. We found that this really keeps the studnets motivated!
As you suggest, Therese, it's important for students to hear about the rough spots too.
How can we more effectively communicate what it takes to complete certain programs from start to finish?
The process begins with the marketing message and follows through the admissions process and orientation into the classroom. Students are entitled to an accurate representation of what will happen throughout their period of enrollment. Some tools to accomplish this include student or graduate panels during orientation, classroom presentations by practicing professionals,and training for admissions reps. People who have been through the process are in a great position to talk about the rewards and challenges of the training.
How do you communicate with students now, Milissa?
