Admissions' role in future student retention
Do you think the new proposed federal regulations will create an environment where admissions can be free to enroll only those applicants truly qualified for the program? I do think that in the end it will be proven that enrolling only qualified candidates will improve all areas of the institution, not the least of which being retention.
This is so important. Have instructors tell workplace stories... so that students can connect with the potiential career.
Dr. B
I believe that cross training instructors in the admissions process would be very beneficial. I do believe, however, that the students are going to chose which program they want, even if we feel that it is not the best choice. I think that instructors who meet with the potential student and ask certain questions could help the student identify that maybe this program is not their best choice.
I completely agree that a student's success can and does depend on them starting out on the right path. Now that is not to say that people don't learn more about themselves as they go through school and may change their minds about what they really are passionate about as far as a lifetime career, but I do agree that it is important for admissions to find out who that person is and direct them down the right path.
The new regulations will change the admission process for schools. For so long colleges/universities were allowed to use high-pressure sales to get that student to enroll even though the student may not have been the best candidate. I am strong believer that everyone deserves the right for a good education but the student needs to be directed onto the right path for themselves. I am a Financial Aid Director where I have seen many students that have chosen the wrong path at the beginning because they didn’t have the right support or direction, now they have spent a lot of money for those errors.
You are on to something there. Retention really and maybe only happens at the point of entry. A truly qualified candidate will succeed almost in spite of missteps along the way.
Yes, cross-training is one way for staff to have empathy for what others do. This will help all staff to focus on retention.
Dr. B
I agree that cross-training can be beneficial. Whenever everyone shares the same goals, the chances of success are better. We all have to work together to get the right student enrolled - the student that will be retained and can get a job.
For sure. The key is to work together and to always tell the same story.
Dr. B
I agree. The new regulations will force the admissions staff to become more knowledgeable about the programs they are selling, to do things ehtically, and ensure that the students they enroll trully are qualified for the programs and are able to financially benefit and financially handle the cost of staying in school.
Cross training always helps. It is important that the student have the probablity to grad. Also, it is important to give students the chance. You never know.
Dr. B
Instructors and Program Chairs should be cross trained in the Admissions process so they appreciate what they do. A meaningful discussion will ensue about what students should or should not be admitted to the program or school.
I'm an instructer! I don't have access to the process of admissions!!!! But at my point in their education I find some students made the wrong decision!!! Qualify them first!!!
