By Jane Salifu
In a bid to enhance student support and streamline services, Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) held a crucial meeting on November 30th, where faculty, staff, and administrators gathered to discuss and gather feedback on the future academic plans for the institution. The meeting, attended by over 50 students both in person and online, delved into various aspects aimed at improving the overall student experience. One of the significant announcements from the meeting was the impending shift to a new academic model scheduled for the Fall of 2024. Tri-C will adopt a structure based on schools, including the School of Arts & Sciences, School of Creative Arts, School of Nursing & Health Professions, School of Business, Legal Professions and Hospitality, and School of Engineering, Manufacturing & Computer Science. This restructuring provides an opportunity for the institution to reassess and redesign its support systems for students beyond the classroom.
Recognizing the importance of counseling and advising in students’ academic journeys, Tri-C has embarked on a comprehensive review of its counseling and advising system. This review encompasses all touchpoints that support students, ranging from interactions with counselors and program advisors to engagement with club advisors and special organizations. The goal is to identify and eliminate barriers, ensuring a smoother and more successful educational experience for every student.
To facilitate this transformative process, seven committees have been diligently researching and brainstorming ideas over the past few months. These committees presented their high-level thoughts and ideas to faculty, staff, and students, seeking valuable input to shape the future of counseling and advising at Tri-C. The administration is actively seeking input from the Tri-C community. Following the presentations on November 30th, participants were invited to fill out a survey on survey Monkey. The survey questions were straightforward, focusing on what attendees liked, disliked, and found missing in each presentation. This input will play a key role in refining and implementing the changes proposed during the meeting.
One key takeaway from the meeting was the unanimous agreement among faculty and staff on the need for improved communication and an all-inclusive website. The importance of clear, accessible information was emphasized, as well as the creation of a space that caters comprehensively to the diverse needs of the Tri-C community. Another consensus reached during the meeting was the need for counselors to be more program-specific. Participants emphasized the importance of counselors possessing adequate knowledge in advising, ensuring students receive tailored guidance relevant to their chosen academic paths.
Tri-C’s commitment to enhancing the student experience is evident in the proactive steps taken during the November 30th meeting. The upcoming academic model shift, coupled with the comprehensive review of counseling and advising, reflects the institution’s dedication to continuous improvement. As the Tri-C community eagerly awaits the survey results and the subsequent implementation of proposed changes, the collective effort toward a more supportive and inclusive educational environment remains at the forefront of this transformative journey.
