Students completing programs
There was a statement about recruiting students that will have a high probability of suceeding in the program. I think recruiters think and see numbers sometimes becuase an high entry test score is part of the completing the programs. Some students have expectations but low drive and endurance once they are in the program. I think recruiters do a great job with getting the students to enroll, but they would do a better job with better education about the details of the different programs.
Sarah, is there a specific demographic that is more likely to have these unrealistic expectations?
Racheal, is that because this wasn't adequately explained or because they weren't "listening"?
There are many ways to look at this and plenty of blame to go around that is why we attend numerous meetings and constantly sharing and developing new ideas. In my opinion for the students they are excited and they have big expectations but it is short lived because they want it microwavable ready now. The students are aware that it is an excellerated course and may know of others a family member or a friend that have possibly shared their circumstance or what they sacraficed to gain their success during school yet they are even less prepared with even bigger expectations. So as a team we spend a lot of time motivating, encouraging and keeping the student focused and helping them to deal with their circumstances but nevertheless you must put in the work to gain the reward.
I've found that often students are ill prepared for the time committment that their chosen program requires.
Dale, is it possible that some students don't understand the role of drive in success? Without role models, I suspect some students simply don't get the process the leads to success.
Patricia, it's all about prospective students becoming informed consumers.
Well said, Patricia. So many problems can be avoided if decisions are being made by well informed consumers.
Although it is questionable if prospective students actually read it, isn't this information found in your school catalog?
I so agree with that but let's go to the low end of the test score. I wonder sometime is it the student or the recruiter that wants the education more. Sometimes I have to shake my head for the lack of drive for some students or just a number for the recruiter; the drive from the student is not their.
I agree that many students are not fully aware of how demanding these programs can be. They have to be informed of the work and challenges involved, and then make an educated decision.
I agree,students need more details on the course material before enrolling. Just because a potential student enters the building doesn't mean there "must be a program here they will like". Sometimes people just want to give voice to their dreams of higher education and need someone to listen with compassion and with answers as to HOW they might realize their dreams with our programs. I see students leave programs due to family financial problems too often. I think it is the school's responsibility to walk thru a budget worksheet with the students to check on the reality of whether the student is going to be able to not just start but finish the program. Then review the help we can give them to make their dreams a reality.Lastly guide the student to a program that they can get enthusiastic about.
I believe that students should have a clear idea of the rigors of a program before they enroll in order to have realistic expectations about their commitment to complete the program. This would include number of hours spent in class, hours spent in clinical, and the number of hours needed in addition each week preparing for class. I view the admissions reps as one link in a chain that is the beginning of the students' experience. Our program director meets with prospective students and should be best suited to provide this clear picture to students.
The practice you describe is a dangerous one, Courtney. If you have information that this is really happening, you should make sure that the appropriate people are aware of it so that it can be addressed. However, if you don't have first hand information, it can be harmful to spread this "perception".
And a good idea, Tyler. Is that happening at your institution? If not, what needs to be done to make it happen?
I agree. I have heard at times that due to the importance of the "numbers" to a school, recruiters will guide a student into a program they aren't necessarily serious about. I believe everyone has the potiential to success, but not always the heart.
I agree. I think the more recruiters know about a program they are trying to market the easier they will be able to address concerns and provide realistic expectations of the coursework and demand. Having instructors and program directors speak to recruiters about their program is one idea.
Tom, I don't know that the reps have to have work experience in the field to be effective. They certainly must have thorough training about the fields of study and the skills needed to succeed in those fields.
during a short time that I did some recruitment work, I found it difficult to close in on the "sale" when I sensed that the prospective student did not have the background, experience, talent etc. to either be successful at the school, which in turn would not allow students to succeed (or even start) in their chosen field....
while everyone contributes to student retention, having nothing but "sales" people who have no knowledge of the actually field that students are striving for is a dis-service to all and just invites failure when they just go for "numbers"
Anna-Marie, I struggle with the notion that people enroll in programs without any interest in the field. Why would they put themselves at financial risk for something that is irrelevant to them?
