USAC Statement on Retention
Unclassified Staff Advisory Council
Statement on Retention
The Unclassified Staff Advisory Council appreciates the significance of each Unclassified Staff member as well as the collective impact of the Unclassified Staff in the effort to retain students at Nicholls State University. We hope that each Unclassified Staff member takes pride in what we consider to be both a responsibility and a privilege, as it is in such measures that the invaluableness of each Unclassified Staff member is even more clearly evident. Although we recognize that each of us through the functions of our positions contributes uniquely to retention, there are universal actions that, albeit seem minor, have a tremendous influence on the students’ perceptions of the University. Thus, we remind everyone of the following:
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Make assisting each student who crosses your path a priority
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Use terms that the students, especially freshman, understand. For example, we know what a “flush” or “deferment” is, but many students do not. Take the time to explain “classes will be deleted…”, etc.
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Students, again especially incoming freshman, do not know the names of buildings. Explain the location. Offer to walk with them if feasible.
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Have maps available. Give them to students. If you don’t have one handy, print one off of the Nicholls web site for them.
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When students or their parents call your office, but obviously need a different office, find out their question and make sure you are transferring them to the correct person; or take their name and number, find the answer to their question or the name and number of the person they should be speaking with, and call them back with this information.