when a student is undecided on a program but knows he/she likes the medical, we show them all the courses we offer and the time it takes to go through each one. This way the student can opt for a shorter program to make sure they like the program and if they choose to they can change into a longer program
After providing the disclosers, address the potential obstacles and assist in creating a plan to manage them.
Maureen,
You are absolutely correct. There are many factors that go into determining if a prospective student would benefit from enrolling in a program. This is a very important part of an agent's job.
Kimberly Stein
We host weekly information sessions as a first step for the prospective student. This way the information is very organized and we are sure to share consistant information with everyone who contacts us. Also, we encourage students to do their own research, such as confirming our information on the Ohio Board website.
It would be very important to discuss whether or not the career field is actually right for the student. Also, it would be important to be honest with a student if you hear too many "red flags" about things going on in their personal life that would make it highly unlikely for them to make it through the entire program successfully.
I think it is very important to set clear expectations for these students. You should be able to show them graduation/placement rates, employers who have hired our graduates in any given field, schools we currently have articulation agreements with etc. It is also important for them to understand that we are a "career college" and our schools are designed to give students the skills they need in order to immediately start their career upon graduation. If a student is seeking a degree higher than what we offer, we cannot guaruntee they will be able transfer to another college. It is important we are never misleading in any way! This is our business, but it's their future!
i seen this work in the High School to see the needs for the students.
I always ask the prospective student where they see themself in five years.
It is very important that as a Admissions rep. I give a realistic view and honest view of the program. I also want the propective student to know that they are mainly responsible for their own success in life and Career Path.
As representatives, potential students often look to us for help in deciding what program they should choose. Although we cannot choose a program for the potential student, we can however, discuss in great detail what the student is interested in, what their specific goals are and help them to see which program meets their interests and goals. It is important to spend time listening to a potential student and ask questions to help them determine what is best for them.
Communication is definitely the key to the success of our students! How and what we communicate with our students is crucial to ensuring they have the correct information to make an informed decision on where they are going to attend school. Change happens so information should be distributed timely and accurately to the admissions representatives!
I would recommend to prospective students that they utilize the Occupational Outlook Handbook for getting more info on a given career. If an admissions rep has accurately described a particular program to a prospect, the Occupational Outlook Handbook will go a long ways in making the prospect realize that he or she received reliable info and that the admissions rep was a "straight shooter."
I think that is very important to explain the program requirements and outcomes as well as let the students know how the school can assist them if they need help during their program of study.
I like the idea of having a career game to determine if this is right for them. Like some others who responded, my institution concentrates on one field. Where did you all obtain this game? Is this something that can determine your readiness in one particular field?
Helping prospective students to make an informed decision is crucial to their success. My college is focused on nursing only so it is important that our students have a propensity for nursing - not everyone is cut out for it. We would never encourage someone to begin the program that didn't express a passion for this profession. Unlike what you see on television, it's not glamorous and we need to help our prospective students understand that. It's hard work.
I believe you must discuss in detail an account of the possibilities of the future for their educationaly interests. Based on their expectations of what their degree may or may not potentially provide.
Outside of disclosure regulations, admissions representatives can provide further details in regards to student resposibilities to be succssful with achieving graduation. It is important to determine a students specific needs and goals and determine that your school can meet those needs and assist with achieving goals. I feel it is also just as important to discuss the student's commitment to being a successful studnent. An admissions rep should stress the importance of attending class and that they will have to put hours aside outside of the classroom to study. Make sure that a prospective student understands these responsibilities and is ready to commit is essential to achieve graduation.
To help insure our program meets the student's expectations, we give them ALL of the materials for their first course and also encourage them to research the local market for their career choice. If they decide against our program, we refund all money paid.
I agree that students need to know the pluses & minuses of their career choice. They should not go into a field because they heard it paid well or their friends or family want them too. This is their live and livelihood and they need to have all the information to make the best decision for the right reason.
I agree that considering what might be the negatives to a career is always a good idea. Most students fail to think beyond the immediate and positive side of a career.
