Retention Starts in Admissions | Origin: RT103
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Implementing Successful Student Retention Strategies --> Retention Starts in Admissions
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
Using surveys and self-checks are great tools to garner interest and spark curiosity. Students should feel that they can achieve their goals as they are applying and registering to start college.
I am learning about all of this for the first time, I think it is interesting that the earlier involvement a prospective student has in the school can define the actual involvement a student has in their classes. It also makes me wonder about the students who don't put the effort in and what was the disconnect for them. Maybe this will be explained later in this module.
The valuable information received regarding an existing commonality with students in a program is very helpful as an instructor. By understanding the commonality of the students in a program, will determine the learning activities planned in the classroom for better engagement.
I learned that the more the student knows about the program the school and the career opportunities the better chance of success.
It is imperative that students are properly assessed during the admission process to maximize student success. Often students are allowed to enter a program without the tools to succeed.
I really like the idea of a checklist, making sure the student has all the information about the course will help them be more successful.
I personally don't work in Admissions, however, I did learn some things that I can take back to our Admissions team.
The stand-out for me was understanding that the time spent during the admissions process and the amount of knowledge the students has about the program prior to starting can have a direct impact on retention. I have always thought this was the case, but it was just observational. For example noticing that students who were rushed in last minute did poorly in their first couple of weeks and ended up dropping out despite efforts from our faculty and staff. It was interesting to find that there is research and data to back up my hunch. Lots of great information in this module.
We can improve student retention through ensuring that students have a thorough idea of what it takes to be successful in the program up front.
How the Admission Process Can Increase Student Retention: Retention Starts in Admissions
The student retention journey begins long before a student sets foot in a classroom—it starts in the admissions process. By implementing strategic retention-focused practices at this stage, institutions can set students up for success from the outset. Here are key ways the admissions process can drive student retention:
Aligning Expectations
During admissions, it’s crucial to provide prospective students with a clear, realistic understanding of the academic programs, campus culture, and support services. When students have accurate expectations, they are more likely to feel confident in their decision and stay committed throughout their studies.
Personalized Admissions Experience
Tailoring the admissions process to meet the unique needs of each applicant fosters a sense of belonging. Personalized outreach, clear communication, and one-on-one support during admissions demonstrate that the institution values each student, increasing their likelihood of staying engaged after enrollment.
Identifying Students’ Goals and Challenges
The admissions process can serve as a valuable opportunity to identify a student’s personal goals and potential obstacles. By understanding the student's needs, the institution can proactively provide targeted resources, such as academic advising or counseling, to support student success and prevent dropout.
Early Engagement and Connection
Engaging students with the campus community early—through events, virtual tours, or student mentorship programs—helps build a sense of connection and belonging even before classes start. This early sense of community can enhance a student’s commitment and increase retention.
Admissions as a Resource Hub
Admissions counselors should act as resource hubs, connecting students to academic support, financial aid guidance, and student services. By helping students navigate potential challenges from the start, the admissions team plays a vital role in reducing the risk of attrition due to avoidable stressors like financial concerns or lack of preparation.
Fostering a Supportive Mindset
Admissions should promote a message of support and inclusivity. By emphasizing the availability of academic help, mentorship programs, and personal development opportunities, students enter their academic journey with a strong foundation and clear path to success, contributing to higher retention rates.
By focusing on retention from the admissions stage, institutions can foster a strong commitment to academic and personal success, paving the way for improved student retention and overall institutional success.
It is important to make sure that the student understands the program they are enrolling in, and that it fits the goals that they want to achieve.
I have learned that it is important to provide the student with all the tools and information to allow them to be successful. Retention starts with the beginning of the process and it's important to review the check list with them.
Retention of students begins with the admission process. Using a rating scale and self checks are both good ways to evaluate . The more information a person is given.The more likely they are to succeed.
Retention can be seen as early as the admissions process and by taking steps such as a quick survey can assist with ensuring their interest in the program fits their expectations. It also allows staff from early on, keep the interest peaked.
The more involvement - i.e., showing the prospective student the school, its staff, faculty, etc. along with activities and general environment, the more likely the student will have a better start along with feelings of comfortability and confidence.
Giving students the tools to be successful before they start classes includes information during the admissions process. I go over the catalog with new students during orientation, and I include a segment on how to be successful in college, but geared towards my student population. I also include the support system we have, and the processes we have that involve student retention.
I learned that spending time with prospective clients exploring the career and the students understanding is vital. Ensuring that the student understands the job description and that is what they want.
I will ensure educating the student in the beginning via visual and other methods for better understanding.
In the same way that faculty and staff retention begin in the onboarding process, we need to recognize that student retention begins in the enrollment process. It's important that the enrollment staff (Admissions / FA) draw out and repeatedly reference the student's compelling reason for enrolling and instill in them the belief that with their engagement, our school can help them realize their career goals and satisfy that compelling reason to seek education.
It is equally important that Admissions staff communicates a profile of each student to the Education department so that we can keep the messaging consistent as they encounter barriers to their continued enrollment.
He aprendido que es muy importante equipar al estudiante con todas las herramientas e información necesaria desde antes de que empiece su primera materia. Ofrecer una explicación completa de los diversos programas disponibles en la escuela y las perspectivas profesionales asociadas al título puede aumentar considerablemente las probabilidades de éxito de cada estudiante.
En mi opinión, el proceso de admisión es clave para la retención estudiantil. No se trata solo de vender la institución, sino de informar detalladamente sobre cada uno de los procesos que experimentará el futuro estudiante. Cuanto más informado esté el posible estudiante, mejor será para la continuidad de sus estudios.
