Academic Progress
First Semester Check-In
The first semester check-in is a friendly conversation with a new student a few weeks after the start of the programme. The first months are when students adapt to a new place, new methods and a new rhythm, and when small difficulties can quietly grow. This conversation lets you hear how the arrival went and offer help early. Here are the questions to ask, from the first impressions to the next steps.
17 questions
When to use this template
- Four to eight weeks after the start of the programme, once students have had time to find their bearings.
- Before the first assessments or exams, to catch problems of method or organisation while there is still time to act.
- For students who have moved to a new city or country, or who are the first in their family to study in higher education.
Questions to ask
First impressions
- 01How have your first weeks here been?
- 02What surprised you the most, in a good way or a bad way?
- 03How does the reality compare with what you expected before you arrived?
- 04How did you feel on your first day, and how do you feel now?
Studying and methods
- 05Which courses do you enjoy the most so far?
- 06Is the teaching style different from what you were used to, and how are you adapting?
- 07How do you take notes and revise what you have seen in class?
- 08Is there a subject or a task that worries you?
Daily life and organisation
- 09How easy is it for you to get to the campus or log in to your classes?
- 10How do you balance studies, free time and, if relevant, a job?
- 11Have you found a place where you can work calmly?
Belonging and relationships
- 12Have you met people you get along with?
- 13Do you know who to ask when you have a question about the programme or the administration?
- 14Do you feel you have your place in the group?
Support and next steps
- 15Which services of the school do you already know and use?
- 16What would have helped you more during these first weeks?
- 17What would you like us to follow up on in the coming weeks?
Tips for a useful conversation
- Keep the tone warm and informal: a new student is often unsure what is allowed to be said, so make it clear that every answer is welcome.
- Ask about the practical side, such as transport, housing, administrative steps and online tools, because small practical problems often hide behind a loss of motivation.
- Listen for signs of isolation: students who say they have not met anyone yet are the ones to follow up first.
- Present the school services you have, such as tutoring, the library, the counselling service and student associations, and offer to introduce the student if they want.
- If a student mentions serious difficulties, such as distress, health problems, housing or money worries, refer them to the institution's support services and let them know they are not alone.
Mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until the first exam results to speak with new students.
- Reassuring too quickly with phrases like “everyone feels like this” instead of listening.
- Only talking to the students who come forward on their own.
- Forgetting to follow up on the points the student raised.
Let Passisto Students hold these conversations
The AI agent holds regular voice check-ins with your students and flags those who need help, so advisors can act early.