Michael Rutschky
Published: March 8, 2006
This semester PJC has taken the initiative to bring in new students. Recently, the student advisors were relocated to Bldg. 5 from Bldg. 2 to allow them the chance to better accommodate the needs of currently enrolled students. As the advisors moved out, they were replaced by a completely new department, one with the sole intent of helping new and prospective students in their first semester at PJC.
The goal, administrators said, is for PJC to provide better “customer service.” It is much more convenient for new students to have a wing especially for their needs in the same building as registration, financial aid, and the bursar’s office.
“We’re trying to get what we call a ‘one-stop-shopping,’ ” Dr. James Martin, vice president of student affairs said. “Where everybody can go to one place.”
The New Student Information Center, as it has been named by PJC students, will see to such things as orientation, recruitment, and dual enrollment. It also provides new students with a comfortable environment to welcome them to PJC.
Kathy Dutremble, director of enrollment management services, said that the bottom line is “what best helps the student be successful at PJC. And if it means that we need to spend more time with them in this area, then we’re committed to doing that.”
In addition to smoothing the transition for new students, the center will be actively seeking new students. The department looks for students coming from high school, Adult High School, or G.E.D. programs. They also target older students who have found a chance to continue their education after years away from school.
One way that PJC has found to interest potential students is what is called a “student ambassador.” This is a student who has been chosen by faculty members to attend events held either on or off campus, and speak on behalf of the school.
Providing a tour of the PJC campus is also proving to be very effective in sparking interest in potential new students. Campus tours begin by introducing students to student affairs departments such as registration and advising. The tour then spotlights areas on campus that relate to the interests of the student.
“We have a lot at PJC,” says Dutremble, “and we are very competitive.”
