Focusing on the Future: Making the Reinstatement Process More Effective for Vulnerable Students

Abstract Reinstatement from suspension is a complex process. Students hoping to be reinstated must demonstrate, usually through a written appeal, that previous issues are resolved and that they have a plan for academic success. Writing reinstatement appeals requires students to be vulnerable and share intimate details of their lives with complete strangers to persuade them that they are ready for and capable of returning. That complexity and vulnerability could discourage students from returning to complete their degrees. This study used a narrative theory framework to understand the importance of student narratives and identify whether focus can be placed on the characteristics of success rather than invoking past trauma placing students in a vulnerable position.