college-advertising

Anyone who has applied to college recently or has a child who is in the process of applying to college knows that college admissions have continued to become more and more competitive each year. While students are facing more strict admissions policies from colleges, however, it seems that many schools are also using unconventional methods of finding and attracting the right students. Here are just a few of the ways colleges are thinking outside the box when it comes to getting students to check “attending.”

Offering Unusual Perks

Everyone likes getting gifts, and potential college students are no exception. Some schools are using perks or admissions gifts as a means of appearing more attractive to incoming freshmen. The Illinois Institute of Technology, for example, offered all incoming students a free iPad as part of their admission. Other schools are taking perks a step higher by offering free tuition to students who meet certain guidelines, or to a limited number of students who exemplify the ideals and the mission statement of the school.

Grassroots Marketing

The era of Twitter, Facebook, and other social media sites has meant that many schools must change up their strategy when it comes to reaching out to potential students. Many schools have begun to use viral videos, often enlisting the help of current students to create videos that are humorous and engaging to incoming freshmen.

Many schools also maintain student run blogs, in which current students can vouch for their school and lend credibility. Some schools have even begun to tap into the rapidly growing field of podcast production, releasing podcasts about the school and issues and interests relevant to it. Outdoor advertising has also proven effective for finding new perspective students.

Reports of Alumni Salary

Many schools are aware that the main issue most students are considering when choosing a school is what type of salary they can hope to enjoy after college. Stanford University, which, of course, boasts quite an impressive record of high salaries among its alumni, sends out information to prospective students about what former students are doing with their Stanford degrees.

Better Dorm Rooms

While courses and programs are certainly the primary factors most students consider when choosing a school, the importance of a desirable dorm room should not be underestimated. Many schools have used funds to create dorm rooms that are highly desirable and offer the promise of a truly idyllic college experience. Often, these dorm rooms are showcased on the school’s social networking site, and may be blogged about by current residents.

Pursuing Top Notch Students

Many colleges and universities have become more aggressive in their bids to increase the pedigree of their establishments by courting valedictorians and other top notch graduating students. Recruiting these students may mean personal calls from admissions staff, and even in person visits with both the student and their parents.

Fast Track Classes

Many students are in a hurry to be out of school and into the job market, so colleges have begun to offer a number of accelerated courses, which allow student to complete classes in less time.

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