James--
Completely agree about the 'fear factor'. We often forget just how real this is for students. Loneliness, feeling like they are the only one going through these trials, is an important consideration and one of the reasons getting students to bond with each other is important.
Susan
Our orientation starts with an introduction and welcoming from all Departments, Directors and Faculty. We have for them coffee and doghnuts and give them a rose. Then assigned speakers continue with orientation. We like to make them feel welcomed and have an opportunity to meet us.
Marietta--
It certainly sounds like you make them feel welcome and cover a lot of good information.
Do you include some interactive activities?
Susan
Depending in what are student enrolled the departament should show up in the orientation, students need to meet every intructors and people from theirs classes, if they have any future problem they need to know where to go.
Every directors of each department should be present and some students to express their feeling of the school.
Carlo--
I agree on both points and especially like your suggestions of students being present. Do you do this? How do you choose them?
Susan
Hi,Susan
Actually, i motivate my senior students to express their experince since the first day of class.We all know that the first week is
significant,and sensitive.The seniors students carry the new one to help them for adaptation.
During orientation, our school introduces the new students to one instructor from each department so that they may familiarize themselves with them. We offer them help with whatever they need for school and to make the process easier. Whenever I have been chosen to participate I make sure to greet the students around campus in the weeks following and make sure that they are making a smooth transition into student life again.
I feel that finachial aid is very important as well the other teaching staff.
I believe Financial aid is an important dept to interact with students in orientation.
Jacqueline--
I agree. In fact, financial aid is a critical department throughout the entire process. Getting them involved early and often will help retention.
Susan
Regina--
This is really excellent. Your making a point to speak with them after the orientation reinforces that you care and helps to make them more comfortable. Kudos!
Susan
Orientation consists of 2 days of class visits by various departments on campus. Student Services, Accounting, Financial Aid, and Student Success Instructors will each make a 10-15 minute presentation. Each team will discuss where they are located and the services they will provide for students.
teaching staff needs to be very inviolve with orientation ,it give the student a chance to get to know the teacher and see them in a different atmosphere other than the classrooom
I think a picture bpard is a graet idea. Will make a suggestion to use one.
The orientation is handled by the admissions staff and the theory instructors. The students that take my class have usually been enrolled for at least a year. I really have no part in orientation.
Steven--
This is really excellent to go in to classes. That way, you are reaching most everyone and it is in little 'sound bites' so they are more likely to retain the information.
Susan
At our institution, all departments have an opportunity to introduce themselves to the new students. It's important to do so that the students experience familiarity as the days progress. They will not feel like outsiders because they will know the staff already. The registrar department, financial aid, fiscal and faculty are all personnel they will interact with throughout their time at the school.
There is a handoff from Admissions to Student Services when a student "starts." Student Services runs the Orientation. Financial Aid, Employment Services and Education are all involved. Students recieve uniforms, ID and parking stickers. We are very focucsed on meeting the needs of our students at this point.
Paul--
It certainly sounds like you are taking care of your students! Do you have specific tactics you take for retention?
Susan
