The First Time Aggie Contact Team (FACT) will speak to approximately 8,500 undergraduate and transfer students about their opinions of student life, campus events and curriculum during the next two weeks.
According to Vanessa Diaz Clark, assistant director of the Department of Student Life, FACT members start calling students during the fifth week of both the fall and spring semesters after the first exams have taken place and students have grown accustomed to the University.
“Undergraduate and transfer students will be contacted by orientation leaders, student government and staff to make sure they have settled in to the community, and we allow students to express their concerns,” Clark said.
FACT was created in 1987 by Dr. John J. Koldus, vice president of student services, with the mission to support and welcome new undergraduate and transfer students to Texas A&M, officials said.
No recommendations or requirements are necessary to be a part of FACT or to volunteer for the program.
“Students, faculty and staff simply volunteer to welcome new students and assist them in any way,” Clark said.
FACT averages 574 calls to students per day.
“FACT is a fabulous program that not only welcomes students to A&M, but it gives students an understanding of how willing students, faculty, staff and the administration invest their time in learning about new students experiences,” said Susan Speliopoulos, graduate student in student affairs administration and higher education. “Once students recognize that no soliciting is involved, then they are open and grateful about getting help.”
FACT will be calling through Oct. 11, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday. If interested in volunteering, students may contact Susan Speliopoulos at 845-5826.