When State University of New York at Oswego officials announced an “everyone’s involved” approach to admissions, they asked well-known alumni like Today show co-host and weather anchor Al Roker ’76 to write to prospective students considering the communications school. Non-famous alumni were also recruited to make connections with students in an effort to improve enrollment declines. Plus, “very direct communication with parents” to emphasize “the recruitment of families” is another important focus, according to officer in charge (acting president) Mary C. Toale.
Oswego also offered a three-week, no-fee period for applications, gaining 3,000 during that time. Free bus trips to Oswego were offered to interested students who wanted to see the campus. And the timing of acceptance letters and financial aid awards was changed, reported Inside Higher Ed.
In addition, faculty members were also asked to help with recruitment. Some professors traveled to lunches for admitted students and parent/family events. They found themselves fielding questions about internships, jobs after graduation, mental health issues and more.
Read more about SUNY Oswego’s approach here.
