Can Admissions Really Have an Impact on Retention?
I presented on a webinar yesterday comprised of 100's of those responsible for student retention. When asked what role admissions played in retention, over 50% said that admissions should play a major role. Nearly 60% of the same group believed admissions didn't have the actual training to do this in a meaningful way though. So it's tough to hold admissions accountable unless they are trained and have the proper resources. What do you believe admission professionals need in order to truly impact student retention?
Hello Dr. Norris,
In some of my former institutions we used to identfy "JJ starts" (from Jeremiah Johnson - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcsXC2xFis4) because, of course, Bear Claw Chris Lapp represented the admissions process as seen by some of the education staff. The three and one half minute video does strike resonance with some. ENJOY!
Dr. V
In order to increase retention, the Admissions team should have extensive knowledge on the programs offfered by the school. They also need to be aware of the acceptance requirements of the school and be honest with potential students to find the best fit into the program.
We have grade requirements for certian programs and if a potential student does not think he will meet them, I discuss the other options available and explore why that program is what he wants.
I have found in my institution that many students were unhappy once they started due to what they considered misleading information from admissions.
We have since started making sure that students know requirements and additonal classes up front and continue to discuss it in follow-up calls so that it is not forgotton.
