STUDENTS AND FAMILIES ATTEND ORIENTATIONS AT BLINN
More than 2,000 new Blinn College students have seized the opportunity to meet with advisors, register for classes and get a glimpse of college life before Fall classes begin Aug. 27.
In 17 New Student Orientation (NSO) sessions since May, students have participated in workshops on enrollment and financial aid, received tips on adapting to collegiate expectations, participated in scavenger hunts across campus and familiarized themselves with their campus of choice.
“Students who attend college orientations feel more confident on campus and know what services and resources are available to them,” said Rachel Landolt, academic advisor and Bryan campus NSO coordinator. “It’s a major contribution to their success, and that’s what we aim to offer here at Blinn.”
While students attended workshops and participated in group advising, parents and family members were invited to attend their own orientation, which included information on the college transition, financial aid, enrollment services and advising.
“College can be just as much a transition for the family as it is for students,” Landolt said. “Breaking up the orientation this way allows us to get parents the information they want and enables them to ask questions.”
On Blinn’s Brenham campus, students and their families can sign up for on-campus housing or visit with local apartment representatives invited to the campus.
“Students seek out Blinn because it offers the feel of a four-year university,” said Mordecai Brownlee, dean of student life. “They’re moving away from home, which can be a frightening experience, and we want to help build a support system around the students. We do our best to make sure that when the students leave home, they have everything they need to move forward.”
Students at the College’s Sealy and Schulenburg campuses will participate in NSOs after the Fall semester begins. Blinn plans to introduce an online orientation next Spring for enrolled students.
Founded in 1883, Blinn is a comprehensive community college committed to educational excellence and to individual and community enhancement. With an enrollment of 18,413 students, Blinn ranks among the nation’s leaders in transferring students to leading four-year universities and has received national recognition for its affordable educational excellence.
As part of its commitment to student success, Blinn is currently implementing a Quality Enhancement Plan titled, “Destination Success: First-Year Focus,” which utilizes learning communities to support first-year college students.
Registration is currently available for the Fall semester. For enrollment information and to learn about financial aid opportunities, visit: www.blinn.edu. Story and photo courtesy of Blinn College.