Together, We Persisted

By: Riley Coffee

When solicitation for the Persisting Together learning community began as I entered my senior year of undergrad, I was excited by the chance to help make the college experience more accessible. My goal, as an aspiring student affairs professional, was to work with faculty and peers on solutions that enhance student success at EMU. Over the last year, I have been proud to support the planning and facilitation of workshops that make college more comprehensible. Through roundtable discussions, I observed both students and faculty share a passionate commitment to improving student retention and experiences. Having spaces that foster dialogue, like those in Persisting Together, is essential to advancing EMU’s learning environment.

Having a mixed approach, where both students and faculty participated in all steps of the process, allowed me to see firsthand the dedication of our faculty members and staff. All those who participated had ample opportunities and comfort to share their experiences and opinions relating to the wider topic of student retention. What was made clear from day one of the workshop was the fervent desire to do as much good as possible through our work. Jeff Bernstein mentioned the many committees and task forces throughout the years that have aimed to address the same issues presented by Persisting Together. Although one would expect to feel a sense of disheartenment after hearing about roadblocks and unfruitful experiences of the past, not a single student or faculty member was inhibited by feelings of doubt. 

Instead, all took up the challenge and worked fervently to build actionable solutions to the perceived problems of the university and its students. Once topics for action were identified through repeated brainstorming, subgroups were drawn up, and the work of producing actionable items began. 

First, I was tasked to assist with the construction of a syllabus workshop. This was a topic that inspired a fair bit of excitement, since syllabus creation seemed to be very stagnant when it came to alterations. Those who attended the workshop were given a crash course on what changes outside of the university-prescribed language could be made. While working alongside faculty members in a one-on-one setting I was able to learn a fair amount about the concerns of faculty members. The primary concern that was made clear during these meetings was perspective. Faculty members wanted to present themselves in a light that reflected their true intentions. Those who participated wanted to show students that they are not a force to be feared but instead are a resource. 

This workshop taught me the importance of language and how certain phrases or communication methods can come across as intimidating to an undergraduate population. The goal of this workshop was to break down these barriers and provide resources that showed the possibilities for connection that a syllabus possesses; these are often neglected. A syllabus is the first impression many students have of an instructor and a class. Having language that inspires, not intimidates, is crucial to building an environment that breeds success and engagement. 

The second project was related to a topic that I have a great deal of passion for: event creation. Since my junior year, I have worked in event management for EMU’s Honors College. This workshop centered on the development of department events, with an emphasis on faculty and student collaboration. Being able to put prior experience to use was a very exciting experience. Additionally, the workshop led to the creation of a panel presentation with faculty members as well as undergraduate students. Hearing different perspectives and assisting those in attendance with their own unique issues relating to events proved to be extremely rewarding. 

The creation of actionable items, such as event checklists and suggestions for possible approaches to events, now available to all who need them at this site (look under Deliverables), was something I took a great amount of joy in. It is my hope that these resources will not only be used by those in need of them but that they will be expanded to further assist both students and faculty. 

Overall, Persisting Together was an experience I took a great amount of pride in. The work that was, and continues to be, done by this group showcases the best that Eastern Michigan has to offer. Learning communities such as this one showed me the importance of collaboration as well as the truly inspiring passion that is held by so many on this campus and its communities. In the end, I believe that this learning community was truly a testament to its name. The ability to persist through turbulent times can only be done through collaboration, understanding, and dedication. 

It was a pleasure to work alongside so many passionate professionals and commit myself to work that has a noticeable impact on our community. It is my hope and the hope of all those involved in this process that these resources be utilized by anyone who needs them. Those who want to learn more about the process or outcomes of this community should feel free to contact the team at the FDC. The whole of this process has displayed to me their persistent desire to connect resources where they can foster the most good.