The UC Irvine Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences is at the forefront of a significant change within the University of California system, spearheading efforts to improve student support through compassionate language. Raven Yoshitomi, the Director of Student Affairs at the school, and vice chair of the UC Undergraduate Academic Advising Council, has played a pivotal role in this initiative.
Recently, the UC Senate approved a proposal to replace the term “probation” with “academic notice” for students whose GPA falls below 2.0. This proposal, drafted by Yoshitomi and supported by Associate Professor Melanie Cocco, chair of the UC Committee on Educational Policy, aims to shift the tone and approach toward students experiencing academic difficulties.
Why Change Matters
“Replacing ‘probation’ with ‘academic notice’ is a meaningful change because our words matter,” said Yoshitomi. “Our official language sets the tone for our relationships with students and guides how we communicate with them. When students are struggling, our language should invite them in, not scare them away.”
This change comes at a crucial time as students face a multitude of non-academic challenges that impact their grades, including financial issues, housing instability and mental health complications. The term “probation,” which originates from the criminal justice system, is deemed inappropriate for an educational setting focused on support and growth.
The Impact of Language
Research shows that labeling students as “on probation” can negatively affect their confidence, engagement with campus resources, and ultimately, their graduation rates. “The label ‘probation’ undermines our position as student allies by alienating and demotivating our students,” said Yoshitomi.
By adopting the term “academic notice,” the UC system aims to create a more supportive environment. This change reflects a shift in attitude from enforcing standards to helping students meet them.
A Collective Effort
The proposal received strong support from various UC advising units and faculty members, skipping the usual divisional review process and being sent directly to the Senate for a vote. It passed with a large majority and became effective immediately.
Associate Professor Melanie Cocco, who wrote a supporting memo for the proposal, played a significant role in advocating for this change. She collaborated closely with Yoshitomi and UC Riverside’s Brett McFarlane to ensure the proposal was well-represented.
Yoshitomi highlights the collaborative nature of this achievement, stating, “This is a product of collective advocacy. While I had the opportunity to draft the proposal, it builds on the work and research of others, including my UC advising colleagues and the faculty who promoted the proposal.”
Looking Ahead
This update is a testament to the power of faculty and staff working together to enhance student experiences. “Advisors are some of the best experts on the student experience. Our institutions benefit from bringing that expertise into higher-level decision-making. I want advisors to be seen not just as responsive helpers, but proactive leaders,” said Yoshitomi.
The UC system’s decision to replace “probation” with “academic notice” is a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. It sets a positive example for other institutions to follow, demonstrating how thoughtful language can lead to better outcomes for students.