defining
ORIENTATION
Orientation is the intentional communication and facilitation of programmatic experiences designed to facilitate a smooth transition of new students to St. Olaf. Orientation is how we prepare students for both the educational opportunities and student responsibilities we offer here on the Hill. It is a process through which students start to find their place in the academic, social, and community life on campus, including and supporting families and other support networks of students along the way.
defining
TRANSITION
Students are in ongoing transition during the college experience. Transition is the process students go through when entering, continuing, and ultimately moving beyond their time on campus. To us, a successful transition includes creating an environment through intentional initiatives in which students develop a sense of belonging to St. Olaf, resulting in Oles achieving their goals, augmenting their experience, and cultivating personal and academic success on their terms.
defining
PERSISTENCE
Rooted in student success, persistence is built on the motivations, connections, and activities that propel Oles forward throughout their experience toward their academic pursuits and personal aspirations. While Retention is institutional, persistence is a bottom-up metric individual to each St. Olaf student. With this individualization in mind, it is critical that we provide experiences and opportunities that cater to all students and their needs to champion success on the Hill.
