ACTION PLAN - University of Ulster

The CASS staff understands how overwhelming the process of admissions, transcript
requests, financial aid, immunization requirements, parking permits, student IDs as well
as the normal fears of entering the university setting can be to students. In the CASS we
make every effort to give students the contact information or directions they need without
robbing them of the accomplishment of successfully navigating the systems themselves.
Current Research/Information:
As part of St. Louis Community College=s Student Retention Plan a formal orientation
process is considered important for all students but especially for Aat risk@ students it is
critical to their success. A recommendation has been made that at the Florissant Valley
location of STLCC, an intrusive Aheadstart@ summer program is offered for Aat risk@
student. The program will be aimed at identifying potential academic problem areas, and
introduce students to the resources of the College. An orientation program has been
recommended for all students prior to the beginning of the fall semester and a smaller
version prior to the spring semester.
In Brawer, Florence (1996), Retention-Attrition in the1990s, ERIC Digest ED393510
characteristics of persisters and non-persisters were examined. In the intervention
strategies, orientation programs are discussed. Effective programs help students by
providing information essential to their academic socialization. This information should
include:
!Descriptions of college program offerings
!The college=s expectations for students
!Information about assistance and services for examining interests, values, and abilities
!Encouragement to establish working relationships with faculty
!Information about services that help with adjustment to college
!Financial Aid information
The Educational Planning and Advising Center at Chattanooga State Technical
Community College has great website at www.cstcc.cc.tn.us which gives tips for first
time students and displays frequently asked questions to the Educational Planning and
Advising Center.
The University of Texas-Austin has a seven week Aheadstart@ program to provide an
introduction to life and learning at the university. The program is a one-week orientation
to UT, then students enroll in six semester hours of regular college courses during the
second summer term prior to the fall semester for which they have been admitted to UT.
They also attend tutorial sessions and receive Asupplemental instruction to master
concepts of the academic courses while improving relevant study skills. Students are
assigned a peer counselor with who they are required to meet during the program.
Students also attend weekly workshops on a variety of topics relevant to academic
success, cultural enrichment, and social events.@ Students also have the opportunity to
participate in recreational activities and interact with other students, staff, and faculty.
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