The Essential Traits Faculty Must Cultivate to Keep Students Engaged
By
Wendy Johnson, PhD
Retaining students requires more than just delivering lectures and assigning grades. It demands a combination of personality traits that foster connection, build trust, and inspire students to stay engaged in their academic journey. Faculty members who embody these traits are better equipped to create an environment where students feel valued and supported.
Below are three essential personality traits every faculty member must possess to retain students:
1. Empathy is the cornerstone of any meaningful relationship, including those between faculty and students. Understanding the challenges students face—whether academic, personal, or financial—requires stepping into their shoes and seeing the world from their perspective.
Why It’s Important: Students who feel understood and supported are more likely to remain motivated and committed to their studies. Empathy builds trust, fosters open communication, and creates a safe space for students to share their concerns.
How to Develop It: Take the time to listen actively when students express struggles or concerns. Validate their feelings and offer practical solutions or resources. Simple acts like asking, “How can I help?” can make a significant difference.
2. Adaptability, in an ever-changing academic landscape, adaptability is a trait that enables faculty to meet the diverse and evolving needs of students. From accommodating different learning styles to adjusting teaching methods for virtual or hybrid environments, adaptability ensures that no student is left behind.
Why It’s Important: Students thrive in environments where flexibility is part of the culture. When faculty can pivot to address challenges, students feel supported and are more likely to stay engaged.
How to Develop It: Stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your approach. For instance, if students struggle with a particular teaching method, explore alternative strategies like interactive discussions, visual aids, or hands-on projects. Continual professional development can also enhance your ability to adapt effectively
3. Positivity, a positive attitude can be contagious, especially in the classroom. Faculty members who bring optimism and enthusiasm to their interactions create an uplifting atmosphere that motivates students to persevere, even in difficult times.
Why It’s Important: Positivity encourages resilience. When students encounter setbacks, a faculty member’s optimistic outlook can inspire them to keep pushing forward. It also helps to build a culture of encouragement, where students feel confident in their ability to succeed.
How to Develop It: Start by modeling positivity in your own actions. Celebrate small victories, whether it’s a student improving their grades or contributing to class discussions. Offer words of encouragement regularly and focus on solutions rather than dwelling on challenges.
Retaining students goes beyond curriculum design and academic policies—it’s about who you are as a faculty member. Empathy fosters trust, adaptability ensures inclusivity, and positivity motivates students to stay the course.
By cultivating these traits, faculty members can make a lasting impact on their students’ lives. Retention isn’t just about keeping students in the classroom – it’s about helping them thrive, achieve their goals, and ultimately transform their potential into reality.