Introducing the student formally to the agency is crucial to a successful field experience.
Students are apprehensive about field placement; it is a new experience.
Field orientation reduces anxiety for the student, as well as for the agency.
After orientation, students are more likely to feel comfortable in the agency.
PREPARING FOR A STUDENT:
Have any paperwork the student needs to do, ready when he/she arrives.
The student needs a designated workspace such as a desk.
Inform agency employees of the student.
Let employees know the student's role in the agency.
It is important for employees to know that the student is not to be considered an employee
The student should not be seen as someone who is there to do errands around the office.
WHEN A STUDENT ARRIVES:
Give the student a tour of the agency.
Introduce the student to employees.
Have an orientation packet ready for the student to review. This packet should include important agency policies and information relevant to the student.
INFORMATION TO GIVE THE STUDENT
Agency description
Clientele, requirements for services, what is and is not provided by the agency
Organizational structure of agency
Dress code
Parking
Hours of operation
Reimbursement procedures
Emergency contact information
Safety procedures
How student can locate referrals and resources
The instructor's style of supervision
The instructor's availability, relationship to student, who to go to when the instructor is unavailable, and assignment submission deadlines
Agency terminology
Provide student with a glossary for terms that are used in agency files and reports the student may read
