week one
the most difficultly that I personally have seen is for the students that are here from anohter state and are no longer close to home. They are te ones who when things get tuff, are the ones who want to quit. they usually come up with a dozen reasons other than that to leave but in the end that is usually what it is.
What can you do to insure the student that leaving home was the right choice?
Elizabeth,
This is a very difficult situation indeed. Getting them connected with other students and the institution as quickly as possible makes a huge difference. It is also important to let them know it is normal. We usually tell the parents this as well...'Johnny' will want to come home the first 6-8 weeks but by the end of the first semester will have made friends and want to stay. I think letting students know that everyone goes through this is helpful.
Susan Backofen
I also think that by painting a picture of how going home with the accomplishment of completing what they set out to do is more rewarding that going home empty handed.
i agree with this one. many students want immediate gratification and need to see what they are doing is benefitting them
Megan,
...and that is the challenge! As we become more 'wired', our students want immediate feedback.
Susan Backofen
The first week its pretty much we are checking students out and students checking out the whole entire package such instructors, other students, etc. I try my best to make them comfortable and if any questions or concerns call me, email, or one on one discussion. I am open for all this. I do tell the students: Day 1 takes a huge step out his or her life to walk through our doors and I would love to see that door with the student coming back everyday.
I find that talking about my time as a student and expalaining that every student will have moment of doubt is normal. We try to get people to make bonds and friendships right away, also helps.
Estella great point. That will give them the motivation to stay in school and prove to some that weren't supportive that they can do it!
I do agree that most out of state students do struggle the most during the first week. They come up with all sorts of differnt reasons why not to come to class or they have to leave early. I try to speak to each of them and make a personal conection with them. This seems to help and they are more willing to share thier fears. It also leads to more open conversations and I can help where I can to make them feel more at home.
Cara,
This is excellent...showing students individual attention makes them know they will be missed if they should not attend.
Susan Backofen
I do the same Patricia. The first week I usually have several games or projects mapped out in order to get the students acquainted with one another as well as myself. I make them aware that my door is ALWAYS open and to come to me with any and all concerns at anytime.
I agree Estella. I think that this also applies to every student. I encourage my students to complete the program with the same enthusiasm that they are bringing to the first class. The completion of a goal is rewarding and if they can buy into that in the first week it helps to increase their chances to stay.
