Create impactful orientation experiences for first-year students. This course empowers new student affairs professionals to design and implement effective orientation programs that enhance student engagement and retention.

Transform Student Orientation - Course for New Professionals

# Revolutionize Your Approach to Student Orientation!

Embark on a transformative journey to revolutionize student orientation programs! This course empowers new student affairs professionals to craft engaging and effective orientation experiences that seamlessly integrate academic, social, and cultural components. You will master the art of understanding first-year student needs, designing impactful schedules, and evaluating program success—all while fostering a supportive campus community that enhances student retention and academic achievement.


### Who is it for?

This course is designed for new professionals in student affairs who are passionate about enhancing first-year student experiences. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of creating impactful orientation programs or unsure how to meet the diverse needs of your students, you're in the right place.

- New professionals in student affairs
- University faculty involved in orientation
- Community organizations supporting student transitions

**Recommended skill level: Beginner**


### Prerequisites

No need to worry! While a basic understanding of higher education systems and familiarity with student development theories will help, they are not barriers to your success. This course is designed to build on your existing knowledge and guide you through the necessary concepts step-by-step.

- 📝 Basic understanding of higher education systems
- 📚 Familiarity with student development theories
- 💡 Interest in program development and evaluation

### What's inside

This course includes a series of modules designed to equip you with the skills needed to create effective student orientation programs.

- Understanding First-Year Student Needs
- Crafting the Orientation Schedule
- Creating Impactful Orientation Materials
- Marketing the Orientation Experience
- Implementing Feedback Mechanisms
- Establishing a Peer Mentoring Program
- Evaluating the Orientation Program

**Interactive Quizzes**

Quizzes will be integrated throughout the course to reinforce learning and ensure comprehension of key concepts.

**Homework**

Assignments will challenge you to apply your learning to real-world scenarios, including conducting needs assessments and developing orientation materials.

**Practical Project**

Create a comprehensive student orientation program that integrates academic, social, and cultural components while evaluating its effectiveness through feedback mechanisms.

**Before You Start**

Before you start, familiarize yourself with the basics of student affairs and be ready to dive into the world of orientation program design!

**Books to Read**

Recommended readings will enhance your understanding of student development theories and program evaluation strategies, providing valuable insights for your projects.

**Glossary**

A glossary will be included to define key terms and concepts related to student orientation and transition.


### What will you learn

By the end of this course, you will have acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to create impactful orientation programs.

- Design a holistic orientation program that meets the diverse needs of first-year students.
- Create engaging materials that facilitate effective communication and support for new students.
- Implement feedback mechanisms that drive continuous improvement in orientation programs.

**Time to complete this course: 8-10 weeks, with 15-20 hours of dedicated study per week.**


### Enroll now and transform your student orientation programs!

Familiarity with how universities operate is crucial. This knowledge helps you design orientation programs that align with institutional goals and student needs.

Basic Understanding of Higher Education Systems

Understanding theories like Erikson's stages of development enables you to create programs that cater to the psychological and emotional needs of first-year students.

Familiarity with Student Development Theories

A passion for creating and assessing programs is essential. This interest will drive you to innovate and improve orientation experiences for new students.

Interest in Program Development and Evaluation

# Revolutionize Your Approach to Student Orientation!

Embark on a transformative journey to revolutionize student orientation programs! This course empowers new student affairs professionals to craft engaging and effective orientation experiences that seamlessly integrate academic, social, and cultural components. You will master the art of understanding first-year student needs, designing impactful schedules, and evaluating program success—all while fostering a supportive campus community that enhances student retention and academic achievement.

## Who is it For?
### Skill Level:
Beginner
### Intro:
This course is designed for new professionals in student affairs who are passionate about enhancing first-year student experiences. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of creating impactful orientation programs or unsure how to meet the diverse needs of your students, you're in the right place.
### Audience:
- New professionals in student affairs
- University faculty involved in orientation
- Community organizations supporting student transitions

## Prerequisites:
### Intro:
No need to worry! While a basic understanding of higher education systems and familiarity with student development theories will help, they are not barriers to your success. This course is designed to build on your existing knowledge and guide you through the necessary concepts step-by-step.
### Requirements:
- Basic understanding of higher education systems
- Familiarity with student development theories
- Interest in program development and evaluation

## What's Inside?
### Intro:
This course includes a series of modules designed to equip you with the skills needed to create effective student orientation programs.
### Modules:
- Understanding First-Year Student Needs
- Crafting the Orientation Schedule
- Creating Impactful Orientation Materials
- Marketing the Orientation Experience
- Implementing Feedback Mechanisms
- Establishing a Peer Mentoring Program
- Evaluating the Orientation Program
### Quizzes:
Quizzes will be integrated throughout the course to reinforce learning and ensure comprehension of key concepts.
### Assignments:
Assignments will challenge you to apply your learning to real-world scenarios, including conducting needs assessments and developing orientation materials.
### Practical Project:
Create a comprehensive student orientation program that integrates academic, social, and cultural components while evaluating its effectiveness through feedback mechanisms.
### Before You Start:
Before you start, familiarize yourself with the basics of student affairs and be ready to dive into the world of orientation program design!
### Books to Read:
Recommended readings will enhance your understanding of student development theories and program evaluation strategies, providing valuable insights for your projects.
### Glossary:
A glossary will be included to define key terms and concepts related to student orientation and transition.

## What Will You Learn?
### Intro:
By the end of this course, you will have acquired the skills and knowledge necessary to create impactful orientation programs.
### Skills:
- Design a holistic orientation program that meets the diverse needs of first-year students.
- Create engaging materials that facilitate effective communication and support for new students.
- Implement feedback mechanisms that drive continuous improvement in orientation programs.

## Time to Complete:
8-10 weeks, with 15-20 hours of dedicated study per week.

Enroll now and transform your student orientation programs!

Structured initiatives designed to help first-year students acclimate to college life, covering academic and social aspects.

The process through which students adjust to new academic and social environments, particularly during their first year.

A supportive relationship where experienced students guide new students, enhancing their transition and engagement.

The systematic assessment of a program's effectiveness, including feedback collection and analysis.

Achievement in educational pursuits, often measured by grades, retention, and student engagement.

Frameworks that explore how individuals adjust to new environments, crucial for designing effective orientation.

The level of involvement and participation of students in campus activities and academic life.

Elements of orientation that celebrate and educate on campus diversity and inclusivity.

Tools and strategies used to gather participant input for program improvement.

Plans developed to promote orientation programs effectively to first-year students.

Recognizing and addressing the various backgrounds and challenges faced by first-year students.

Ensuring that orientation materials and support services are easily available to all students.

Methods used to convey important information to students, fostering understanding and engagement.

The process of creating a timeline for orientation activities, balancing academic and social elements.

Non-numerical information collected to understand experiences and perceptions, often through interviews.

Numerical data used to measure outcomes and trends, typically gathered through surveys.

Individuals who work in higher education to support student development and success.

External groups that collaborate with universities to enhance student experiences and resources.

The process of outlining steps to achieve specific goals based on evaluation findings.

Creating a schedule that outlines when orientation activities will take place.

Trial runs of orientation materials or programs to assess effectiveness before full implementation.

Specific metrics used to evaluate the success of orientation programs.

Fundamental principles of creating visually appealing and effective orientation materials.

Approaches to developing informative and engaging materials for orientation.

Preparing experienced students to effectively support and guide new students.

Documents summarizing the outcomes of program evaluations, highlighting successes and areas for improvement.

Understanding first-year students' needs is crucial for designing effective orientation programs. Transition theories provide a framework for comprehending the challenges and experiences that new students face as they adapt to college life.

Transition theories, such as Schlossberg's Transition Theory, highlight the importance of understanding how life transitions affect individuals. This theory emphasizes the significance of personal, situational, and support factors in navigating transitions.

"Transition is a process, not an event." - Nancy Schlossberg

💡 Key Insight: Understanding transition theories helps you identify the unique challenges first-year students face, allowing you to tailor your orientation programs accordingly.

Every first-year student comes from a different background, bringing unique needs and expectations. Factors such as cultural background, academic preparedness, and personal circumstances can greatly influence their transition experience.

Practical Exercise: Creating Student Profiles

To apply what you've learned, create a sample student profile based on hypothetical data. Consider various factors that might influence their orientation experience.

Create a student profile that includes demographic information, academic interests, and personal challenges.

Gathering and analyzing data on first-year student needs is essential. Use surveys and focus groups to collect qualitative and quantitative data.

const studentNeeds = [
  { name: 'John Doe', needs: ['academic support', 'social integration'] },
  { name: 'Jane Smith', needs: ['cultural engagement', 'peer mentoring'] }
];

Gathering feedback from first-year students is vital for enhancing your orientation program. Use surveys, focus groups, and informal discussions to collect insights.

🛠️ Tip: Ensure that feedback mechanisms are accessible and encourage honest responses. This will provide you with valuable insights to improve your program.

Understanding the diverse needs of first-year students through transition theories and data analysis is key to designing effective orientation programs. Reflect on how this knowledge will influence your program design.

Reflect on how understanding first-year students' needs will inform your program design and implementation.

Homework: Understanding First-Year Students

Unlocking the Transition: Understanding First-Year Students

Understanding First-Year Students Quiz

Engaging first-year students requires understanding their diverse backgrounds and experiences. Focus groups are an effective method for gathering qualitative data, allowing you to hear directly from students about their needs and expectations.

To conduct successful focus groups, consider the following techniques:
- **Create a Safe Environment:** Make participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts without fear of judgment.
- **Use Open-Ended Questions:** Encourage discussion by asking questions that require more than a yes/no answer.
- **Be Inclusive:** Ensure that all voices are heard, especially those from underrepresented groups.

🔑 **Tip:** Start with icebreaker questions to build rapport among participants before diving into more serious topics.

Focus groups are not just about asking questions; they involve managing group dynamics. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- **Facilitate Discussion:** As the moderator, guide the conversation while allowing natural dialogue to flow.
- **Manage Dominance:** Watch for participants who may dominate the conversation and encourage quieter members to share their thoughts.

Once you've gathered data from focus groups, the next step is analysis. Here’s how to approach it:
- **Transcribe Sessions:** Write down everything that was said during the focus group.
- **Identify Themes:** Look for recurring themes and patterns in the responses.
- **Use Quotes:** Highlight impactful quotes that capture the essence of the discussion.

Hands-On Exercise: Conducting a Mock Focus Group

In this exercise, you'll simulate a focus group with your peers. Follow these steps:
1. **Form Groups:** Divide into small groups of 4-5 students.
2. **Select a Topic:** Choose a specific aspect of the first-year experience to discuss (e.g., academic challenges, social integration).
3. **Role-Play:** Assign roles (moderator, participants) and conduct the focus group.
4. **Debrief:** After the session, discuss what worked well and what could be improved.

Real-World Application: Implementing Findings

After analyzing focus group data, apply your findings to improve your orientation program. Here’s how:
- **Adjust Program Components:** Use insights to refine activities and resources offered during orientation.
- **Communicate Changes:** Share how student feedback influenced program changes to enhance transparency and trust.

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." - Peter Drucker

Homework: Conduct a Focus Group

Diverse Voices: Engaging with First-Year Students

Engagement Techniques Quiz

Creating detailed student profiles is essential for effective program design. These profiles allow you to understand the unique backgrounds, needs, and experiences of your first-year students, which is crucial for tailoring your orientation program to meet their needs.

Demographic analysis involves studying the characteristics of a population, such as age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and educational background. By analyzing these factors, you can identify trends and patterns that inform your program design.

👥 Key Insight: Understanding the demographics of your student population helps you create a more inclusive and effective orientation program.

To create comprehensive student profiles, consider the following steps:

Gather demographic data through surveys or institutional research.

Conduct focus groups or interviews to gain qualitative insights.

Analyze the data to identify common themes and needs.

Create profiles that encapsulate the diverse backgrounds of your students.

Once you have created student profiles, use them to inform your program design. Here’s how:

Tailor orientation activities to meet the identified needs of different student groups.

Ensure that materials and resources reflect the diversity of your student body.

Incorporate feedback mechanisms to continually refine the profiles and adapt your programs.

Hands-On Exercise: Create a Student Profile

As a hands-on exercise, create a student profile based on hypothetical demographic data. Use the following template to guide you:

Name: [Student Name]
Age: [Student Age]
Gender: [Student Gender]
Ethnicity: [Student Ethnicity]
Socioeconomic Status: [Student SES]
Educational Background: [High School GPA, etc.]
Interests: [Extracurricular activities, hobbies, etc.]
Challenges: [Potential barriers to success]

When creating student profiles, be mindful of the following pitfalls:

Failing to update profiles regularly based on new data.

🚫 Common Mistake: Avoid creating static profiles that do not evolve with your student population. Regularly update them to reflect changing needs and demographics.

Real-World Example: Successful Student Profiles

Consider a university that developed detailed student profiles and found that many students were struggling with mental health issues. As a result, they incorporated mental health resources and workshops into their orientation program, significantly improving student engagement and retention.

Homework: Develop Student Profiles

Crafting Student Profiles: The Key to Effective Programs

Student Profiles Quiz

In this lesson, we will explore various data collection methods that enable you to understand the needs of first-year students. The ability to gather and analyze data is essential for making informed decisions that enhance the effectiveness of your orientation program.

Data collection can be done through various methods, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and observations. Each method has its strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these will help you choose the right approach for your needs.

Surveys: Useful for gathering quantitative data from a large group.

Interviews: Provide in-depth qualitative insights but are time-consuming.

Focus Groups: Allow for discussion and interaction among participants, revealing deeper insights.

Observations: Help you understand student behaviors in real-time.

Analyzing Quantitative and Qualitative Data

Once data is collected, it's essential to analyze it effectively. Quantitative data can be analyzed using statistical methods, while qualitative data requires thematic analysis. Here’s how you can approach both:

For quantitative data, use software like Excel or SPSS to identify trends and patterns.

For qualitative data, read through responses to identify recurring themes and insights.

The ultimate goal of data analysis is to inform your program design. Here are some practical steps to apply your findings:

Create a summary report of your findings to share with your team.

Identify key themes that emerged from your analysis and brainstorm program components that address these needs.

Present your findings to stakeholders for feedback and collaboration.

When analyzing data, be mindful of biases that can skew your interpretation. Here are some common pitfalls:

Relying solely on one data collection method.

Ignoring outlier responses that may provide valuable insights.

Failing to validate your findings with stakeholders.

"Data is a precious thing and its analysis has the potential to be a very powerful thing." - Katherine Johnson

Engage with data experts or attend workshops to enhance your skills in data analysis. Collaborating with colleagues can also provide fresh perspectives on your findings.

Hands-On Exercise: Data Collection and Analysis

To practice what you've learned, conduct a mini-survey among your peers about their experiences transitioning to college. Analyze the data and create a brief report summarizing your findings.

Homework

Data-Driven Decisions: Analyzing Student Needs

Data Analysis Quiz

Understanding the importance of feedback is the cornerstone of creating an effective orientation program. Feedback allows you to gauge the success of your initiatives and understand the unique experiences of first-year students.

To gather meaningful feedback, it's crucial to identify the right channels. Consider these options:
- **Surveys**: Quick and easy for students to fill out post-event.
- **Focus Groups**: Engage students in discussions to gain deeper insights.
- **Informal Check-ins**: Casual conversations can reveal candid thoughts.

Surveys are one of the most effective tools for gathering feedback. Here’s a step-by-step guide to designing effective surveys:
1. **Define Objectives**: What specific information do you want to gather?
2. **Choose Question Types**: Use a mix of multiple-choice, Likert scales, and open-ended questions.
3. **Keep It Short**: Aim for 10-15 questions to respect students' time.
4. **Pilot Test**: Test your survey with a small group to refine questions before the full rollout.

📝 **Tip:** Ensure anonymity in surveys to encourage honest feedback. Students are more likely to share their true thoughts if they feel their responses are confidential.

Analyzing Feedback for Program Improvement

Once you've collected feedback, the next step is analysis. Here’s how to effectively analyze the data:
- **Quantitative Analysis**: Look for trends in numerical data from surveys.
- **Qualitative Analysis**: Identify common themes in open-ended responses.
- **Actionable Insights**: Focus on feedback that can lead to specific improvements.

Real-World Application: Case Study Example

Consider a university that implemented a new orientation schedule based on student feedback. After gathering input through surveys and focus groups, they learned that students desired more social events. The university adjusted their schedule, resulting in higher attendance and satisfaction rates.

Hands-On Exercise: Create a Feedback Plan

Now, it’s time for you to apply what you’ve learned. Create a feedback collection plan that includes:
- **Feedback Channels**: List which channels you will use (surveys, focus groups, etc.).
- **Timeline**: When will you gather feedback?
- **Sample Questions**: Draft 5-10 questions you plan to ask.

"Feedback is the breakfast of champions." - Ken Blanchard

When gathering feedback, be mindful of these common mistakes:
- **Overloading with Questions**: Too many questions can lead to fatigue.
- **Ignoring Feedback**: Always act on the feedback received to show students their voices matter.
- **Lack of Follow-Up**: Communicate back to students about how their feedback will be used.

Identify at least three feedback channels you will use.

Draft a short survey with at least five questions.

Plan a focus group session to gather qualitative feedback.

Feedback Implementation Homework

The Power of Feedback: Engaging with Students

Feedback Mastery Quiz

Understanding campus resources is crucial for supporting first-year students. These resources range from academic support services to mental health counseling, and knowing how to effectively connect students with these services can significantly impact their transition experience.

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the various resources available on campus. This includes academic advising, tutoring centers, counseling services, and extracurricular organizations. Each resource plays a unique role in supporting student success.

Create a list of all campus resources available to first-year students, including contact information and services offered.

Building strong relationships with campus departments is essential. Schedule meetings with department heads to understand their services better and discuss how they can collaborate to support first-year students.

"Collaboration is key to creating a supportive environment for students. Engage with departments to ensure that resources are accessible and visible." - Campus Affairs Expert

A well-designed resource guide can serve as a valuable tool for first-year students. This guide should include information about academic and social resources, as well as tips for navigating campus life.

Identify the key resources to include in the guide.

Draft concise descriptions for each resource, highlighting its benefits.

Design the guide using graphic design principles to ensure it is visually appealing.

Pilot the guide with a small group of first-year students and gather feedback.

Gathering feedback on your resource guide is crucial. Use surveys or focus groups to understand how effective the guide is and what improvements can be made.

📝 Tip: Ensure your resource guide is accessible in both digital and print formats to reach all students.

Real-World Example: Successful Resource Guides

Many universities have successfully implemented resource guides that have improved student engagement. For instance, the University of XYZ developed a comprehensive guide that included not only academic resources but also social events and clubs, resulting in increased participation in campus activities.

Hands-On Exercise: Resource Guide Creation

As a practical exercise, create a draft of your resource guide. Ensure it encompasses various resources and is tailored to meet the needs of first-year students.

Draft your resource guide and prepare to present it in the next class.

When creating a resource guide, be mindful of common pitfalls such as overwhelming students with too much information or failing to highlight the most relevant resources.

Avoid jargon; use clear and simple language.

Ensure the guide is not too lengthy; focus on the essentials.

Regularly update the guide to reflect any changes in campus resources.

Homework: Resource Guide Development

Building Bridges: Engaging with Campus Resources

Engaging with Campus Resources Quiz

Dive deep into the diverse needs of first-year students, leveraging transition theories and research to inform your orientation program design. This module challenges you to explore the unique perspectives and experiences of new students, ensuring your program is inclusive and effective.

Understanding First-Year Student Needs

Understanding the Importance of a Balanced Schedule

A well-structured orientation schedule is crucial for helping first-year students transition smoothly into college life. It sets the tone for their entire academic journey and can significantly impact their engagement and retention. By balancing academic, social, and cultural components, you create an inclusive environment that addresses the diverse needs of students.

Integrating academic components into the orientation schedule is essential for providing students with the resources they need to succeed. This includes sessions on academic advising, study skills workshops, and introductions to faculty members. On the other hand, social components are equally important, as they help students build connections with peers and create a sense of belonging. Examples include icebreaker activities, campus tours, and social events.

🎯 Tip: Ensure that each event in your schedule has a clear purpose and aligns with your overall objectives for the orientation program.

Engagement is key to a successful orientation. Consider incorporating interactive elements such as team-building exercises, Q&A sessions with upperclassmen, and cultural showcases. These activities not only make orientation fun but also encourage students to participate actively.

Effective event planning involves several key steps:
1. Define the goals of each event.
2. Determine the logistics (venue, time, materials).
3. Promote the event to ensure maximum attendance.
4. Evaluate the event's success through feedback.

Here's a sample orientation schedule that balances academic, social, and cultural components:

**Day 1:**
- Welcome Breakfast
- Keynote Address by University President
- Academic Advising Sessions
- Campus Resource Fair
- Icebreaker Activities

**Day 2:**
- Cultural Showcase
- Student Organization Fair
- Workshops on Study Skills
- Evening Social Event (Game Night)

**Day 3:**
- Faculty Meet-and-Greet
- Campus Tour
- Reflection and Feedback Session

Once you have drafted your orientation schedule, it’s important to solicit feedback from peers, mentors, and even first-year students. Use surveys or focus groups to gather insights on what works and what doesn’t, and be prepared to make adjustments based on this feedback.

After incorporating feedback, finalize your orientation schedule and ensure that all involved parties are informed of their roles and responsibilities. A well-communicated plan will help ensure a smooth execution during orientation.

"The secret of success is to be ready when your opportunity comes." - Benjamin Disraeli

Hands-On Exercise: Draft Your Orientation Schedule

Now it's time to put your knowledge into practice. Draft your own orientation schedule that integrates academic, social, and cultural components. Consider the needs of your target audience and ensure a balance between the different elements.

When designing your orientation schedule, be mindful of these common pitfalls:
- Overloading the schedule with too many events.
- Failing to consider the diverse backgrounds of students.
- Neglecting to include feedback mechanisms.

Homework: Create Your Orientation Schedule

Designing the Perfect Orientation Schedule

Orientation Schedule Quiz

Understanding cultural integration is essential for creating a welcoming environment for first-year students. Cultural celebrations provide opportunities for students to share their backgrounds, traditions, and values, contributing to a rich campus culture.

Cultural celebrations serve multiple purposes in an orientation program. They help students feel seen and appreciated, promote inclusivity, and encourage interaction among diverse groups. By acknowledging and celebrating various cultures, institutions signal their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Fosters a sense of belonging among students.

Encourages cross-cultural interactions and friendships.

Enhances students' understanding of different perspectives.

To effectively plan cultural celebrations, consider the following steps:

Engage with student organizations representing diverse cultures.

Conduct surveys to understand which cultural events students are interested in.

Collaborate with local community organizations to bring authenticity to events.

Ensure events are accessible and inclusive to all students.

Promote events through various channels to maximize participation.

Promoting Diversity in Orientation Programs

Promoting diversity goes beyond just hosting events. It requires a commitment to integrating diverse perspectives into all aspects of the orientation program.

Tip: Consider creating a cultural committee to oversee the planning and execution of cultural events.

Real-World Example: Successful Cultural Celebrations

Many universities have successfully integrated cultural celebrations into their orientation programs. For example, the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) hosts a "Cultural Connections" event where students can engage with various cultural organizations, participate in workshops, and learn about resources available to them.

As a practical exercise, choose a culture represented on your campus and outline a plan for a cultural celebration event. Consider the following:

Identify key elements such as location, activities, and resources needed.

Create a timeline for planning and executing the event.

Draft a promotional strategy to attract participants.

When planning cultural celebrations, be aware of potential pitfalls:

Assuming all students from a culture have the same experiences.

Neglecting to include diverse voices in the planning process.

Failing to promote events effectively, leading to low turnout.

"Diversity is not about how we differ. Diversity is about embracing one another's uniqueness." - Ola Joseph

Consider the following questions as you reflect on the role of cultural celebrations in orientation programs:

How can cultural celebrations impact first-year students' sense of belonging?

Cultural Celebrations: Embracing Diversity

Master the art of designing an engaging and balanced orientation schedule that integrates academic, social, and cultural components. This module empowers you to create a holistic experience that resonates with diverse student populations.

Transform Student Orientation - Course for New Professionals

Course Modules

Module 1: Understanding First-Year Student Needs

Module 2: Crafting the Orientation Schedule

Module 3: Creating Impactful Orientation Materials

Module 4: Marketing the Orientation Experience

Module 5: Implementing Feedback Mechanisms

Module 6: Establishing a Peer Mentoring Program

Module 7: Evaluating the Orientation Program

What you'll learn

Time Commitment