I am an extern instructor in a program that has a fast-paced learning environment. Life issues can often get in the way of many of our students who are very young and often immature. Like many other things in life, relationships are what can make the biggest difference. I always try to be encouraging and try to create an environment where the students feel they can talk to me about problems. We have a wonderful Learner Services Department (Student Services) that I can refer them to if necessary. However, I liked the information about getting to the "heart of the problem" and asking another question about an answer the students gives you about their main issue. Obviously we all have a responsibility to intervene for the benefit of the students' best interest.