In this episode of Z-Rated Success: The Decision Lab for Education Leaders, Nick Zizi sits down with Brittany Jackson, Director of Orientation and New Student Programs at North Carolina A&T State University.
Brittany shares why orientation is not just a checklist or a schedule of events. It is often the first real experience students and families have with a campus community, and it can shape how they feel about belonging, safety, support, and student success.
This conversation explores orientation, student transition, first-year experience, family engagement, belonging, leadership, and the early decisions that can shape a student’s semester.
In this episode, we discuss:
• Why orientation is more than logistics
• How orientation sets the tone for student success
• Why parents and families are part of the transition process
• What students are often unprepared for when they arrive
• Why students need to decide who they want to be
• How leaders can help students learn to pivot
• Why belonging matters from day one
• How authenticity creates connection with students
• What leaders should pay attention to during orientation
• Practical advice for students before and during orientation
Connect with Brittany Jackson:
LinkedIn: Brittany Jackson
Remember: Better decisions lead to better outcomes.
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Visit zratedsuccess.com
Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference:
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