Visits have included a paralegal visiting an introductory paralegal course, an accountant for principles of accounting, an oceanographer and a nurse for biology, an engineer for calculus, a veterinarian for chemistry, and the regional vice-president of a local banking and trust firm for a business law course. On the day of the community leader's visit, SI leaders conduct an abbreviated study session, giving the community mentor the opportunity to observe and participate in a SI session. Then, the community mentor speaks informally to students, discussing career related topics and answering students' questions. Both students and community mentors evaluate the session, giving suggestions for maintaining and improving the program. Through these small group forums, community leaders join students and faculty in a partnership for student success.
Students see mentors as a link to defining and achieving their goals.
Community leaders welcome the opportunity to interact with students and to help them focus on local career possibilities. An additional benefit is that mentors reinforce the importance of college course work for career success. Breaking the Attrition Cycle.