Daniel,

I think that one of the best ways to help students is by understanding all of the resources available in your community. Most often students have problems outside of college.

We are fortunate to have a Student Services Department that we can refer students to who are facing several issues. The insturctor is they key point person to assess the student's needs and then discuss the issue with the Program Director. Both can be a positive influence to have the student then seek additional assistance with the Student Services representative.This gives the student a feeling that everyone cares and is concerned for their welfare.

I agree!  Most of the time my students end up dropping due to finances ( they need to work) while in school. Or they are in abusive relationships that they just will not leave no matter how many times we refer them to student services for guidance.  When these things happen I use to take it personally but having seen it time and time again I have learned that I will probalby never be able to retain every student even after all the hard work and support they are given.