Every year, the week prior to classes starting, there is an Orientation for Dorm students. While participation is not required, it’s highly encouraged. Students who have participated in the past have had higher GPAs and greater rates of program and degree completion than their peers. Dorm students who participate in the Academy can move into the dorms before other dorm students to participate in the four-day Academy. During the Academy, students learn about resources both on campus and in the community. They experience what a typical college class (or university class, for our second-year students) is like and learn skills that help support their holistic and academic success. Teambuilding activities provide a unique opportunity for dorm students to build relationships with their peers as well as FDLTCC staff and faculty. Meals are provided and the cost of transportation and teambuilding activities are covered by the Seek to Learn Academy, meaning students can participate for free!

The Orientation for Dorm students has shown increased rates of retention of students for those who have attended in comparison to their peers. The Fall to Spring Retention 2020 to 2023 provides an overview of retention rates of Academy participants versus their Non-Academy peers. The Retention Rate Comparison illustrates the retention rates of Academy participants versus their Non-Academy peers in breakout categories.

For more information about the Seek to Learn Academy (Orientation) for Dorm Students, contact Ariel Johnson at ariel.johnson*AT*fdltcc.edu or at 218-879-0871.