Ways to improve Retention?
Student activities can be a good way to improve retention. but this only works if everyone does their part. find ways to get feedback from students and staff. this can be base on the needs of the students. Our Guest speaker's are Alumni's in the field. How do you imporve Retention?
One new way that we have improved retention is to engage and connect with the new students earlier. At orientaion I give the new students an assignment where they have to email three things. 1. why they choose Medical Assiting.
2. What obstacles do they face in completign this program.
3. what are their plans if these obstacles happen.
I have the students email it to me and I am able to communicate with them via email over the weekend before their first day of school. It gives me the oppurtunity to build a rapport with them so that I can help them when they are having problems. I found this to be a great retention tool and nice way to communicate with the new students.
Tammy ,
This is an excellent idea; a great and non-threatening first assignment!
Susan Backofen
Both great ideas! Another way to help improve retention is graduation advising. I am sure different schools use differnt titles for this. We try and meet with each student every 10 weeks. During this time, we review their courses, grades, grad date etc- but this also gives the student a chance to discuss any issues they may be having. Creating that relationship with them always helps down the line IF a problem comes up, and they need a trusted source of support. Teachers/Administrators can become that support, and thus- help retention.
Lisa,
I really like this consistent meeting format and keeping them focused on their career goals.
Susan Backofen
I usually have someone from a company that has hired a previous graduate speak at the orientation. This gives them a little motivation to stay on course.
