Richland students were invited to participate in an open focus group on April 7 in Red River Hall.
Researchers from the Urban Institute collected data from Dallas College students and from other students around the country regarding previous individualized experiences with success coaches.
They scored interactions during visits, both in person and online via Microsoft Teams.
Students openly shared visits that went above and beyond, negative outcomes and missed opportunities, scoring various guest service types offered with success coaches at Dallas College.
Many questions focused on how students were engaged and understanding how the needs of students were being met, as many students rely heavily on their success coaches for class enrollment and questions about classes. “Success coaches saved me, in so many ways during the semester, with class enrollment process, even when I waited til the last day, which is stressful for me. But they helped me find last-minute classes for me, and knowing they are always ready when you reach out with personal or school issues is reassuring,” said Richland student Hector Reyes.
Fellow student Tyler Brown added, “I felt this event gave me a better insight improving my understanding of what other students experience, too. I learned I can utilize my transfer coach for classes and not just for questions about my universities I’m pursing to attend.”
Dr. Karen Stills, senior associate vice chancellor of student success, according to a press release on Dallascollege.edu, said “Student success doesn’t happen by chance. We create an environment that fosters care, supporting students through life’s challenges. Our success coaching considers the whole student, offering a single point of contact to proactively address barriers. By understanding students’ needs, we improve retention, completion and a sense of belonging. Success coaches guide students both virtually and on campus. If you see one, thank them for their work.”
