Pamela, great point. It sounds like you are putting the students' needs first and ultimately partnering with them to make the right decision for them. These are great experiences to share. Thank you.
Dr. Jean Norris
Wendy, it's great to see your passion for your school here. I'm curious, will you share some examples of what you have done to support the students that look at different options?
Dr. Jean Norris
I love and believe in our school (we train in only one profession). I spend a great deal of time in the interview and follow up process with the intention of enrolling qualified, dedicated students. If the prospect wants to look at different schools, I support that. I don't speak about other schools or professions because I'm not educated enough and don't want to spend my time doing so.
I have no problem exploring all of the student's options, including those that don't include attending our school...I have even referred them to our competition or to schools that offer a different focus and encouraged them to explore what they offer. I am more comfortable each time I do that, as I have found 1) the student appreciates my honesty and feels more comfortable sharing with me. 2) the students often research the alternative and come BACK to us because of that and their 'gut reaction' to our environment vs that of the alternative institution. 3) friends of the prospective student come to see us because they feel they can trust us. It is almost always a 'win/win' situation.
Roberta, exactly! It sounds like you put your students' needs first. Great job!
Dr. Jean Norris
I feel that it is an absolute must if we expect to reach a goal that is ultimately best for them. If it means that our school isn't the best fit, at least we can continue to suport their decision. Situations can change and they won't remember us and return later if we haven't kept it about them.
Bryce,
Wow! This is an incredible experience that I can tell has shaped you in many ways. It certainly pays off in many ways to do what is right and in the best interest of the student. Congratulations!
Dr. Jean Norris
I actually adapted that approach early in my admissions career because my DOA at the time felt it was important to truly help those who came thru our school doors even if it meant losing a lead. I then was able to help a student in this manner and she was so thankful that she sent me a personal letter thanking me for caring enough for her that I was willing to help her even though she wouldn't be attending our school. She also expressed how she would be forever grateful to me. I have never forgot that experience and it has helped shape me into the rep that I became because of that DOA and her willingness to truly help those who came across us. Oh and one last thing it did come back to me full circle as that one student sent in many leads over the years :)
It's always best to consider that some prospects may not be good students for your school, it's a realistic approach. However, supporting their decision to find a school that is right for them will create trust and a future relationship that may eventually cause them to refer others who may find your school to be the best choice.
I support my students even if it does mean not attending my school because we aren't the right fit for them. I let them know that if they have any questions about college in general they are more then welcome to contact me, as I am here to help them make the best decision for them personally.
Sharon, that is exactly right. It's all about the student and their needs. It's ultimately their decision. If you can partner with them and help them explore all of their options, you should know that you have done your job.
Dr. Jean Norris
I am all for exploring all of the students options. I believe that it is always best to keep the students best interest in mind and doing what is right for that student. I believe that even if that student does not attend your school, if you are sincere with them, they may refer someone to you in the furture. Knowing they can trust you is one of the key components.
Akiko,
It sounds like you do your best to make sure your students has really considered their decision to attend and want to help them make the best decision that they can given their situation. Great approach to serving your student in an ethical manner.
Shannon Gormley
I don't want to see any student I helped enrolling to our school, after they start "This is not what I expected so I don't wanna attend school. I want my money back." I would be happy to give them other school options if it fits better to what they expect. That way the student didn't choose to come our school might still have the trust for our school, he/she might refer our school to their friend who would fit to our school.
Thacha,
Excellent insights! It's also a wonderful way to demonstrate your commitment to helping students in their decision making process! It sounds like you approach learning about your student's in a sincere in genuine manner, which I am sure they appreciate. All the best to you as you continue to learn about your student's unique situations, Thacha!
Shannon Gormley
Excellent insights, Mike! Understanding all of the options that your student is considereing is a key element to determining fit and allowing your student to see which option fits them best. Even if your student is not a clear fit with the school, the time and attention that you give and your sincere desire to help is a positive experience they are not likely to forget. Keep up the good work of putting your students first.
Shannon Gormley
I feel that exploring all the students options whether they attend my school or not is a great idea. I am able to get a greater understanding of them and myself. I'm sure there is something new for me to learn from each and every prospective student. Therefore i will be able to better guide the student in the right direction.
I believe it's an Admissions personnel's duty to explore all viable options for a student. I think it's extremely important because both parties need to determine if the school is a proper fit and if you have built a proper rapport with a student, they may also send referrals to you, even if it doesn't work out for them.
I believe you have to do this to not only protect the reputation of your school, but also uphold your own personal legacy as well.
Great point, Carlos. Demonstrating for your care and concern for your students is essential when it comes to helping them make their best decision for moving forward.
Shannon Gormley
it shows them that we do care where they are going, and what thier best intereste are. That they are not just a number to us.
