How Leaders Can Fix The Biggest Gaps in College Admissions

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About the Episode: 

This week, Dustin sits down with Dr. Pamela Ellis to discuss how students and families can navigate the complex college admissions process with confidence. Drawing from her vast experience, Dr. Ellis shares insights on what truly makes a college the “right fit,” why independence is a key motivator for students, and how institutions can better support student success. From debunking myths about the application process to the growing need for authentic campus communities, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for both higher ed leaders and enrollment professionals.

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Key Takeaways

• Start Early: College readiness should begin as early as ninth grade, focusing on organizational skills, self-advocacy, and career exploration.
• The Five Factors of Fit: Students should evaluate colleges based on their own needs first, rather than external rankings or prestige.
• Community Matters: A sense of belonging is increasingly influencing students' enrollment decisions, particularly post-pandemic.
• Transparency in Admissions: Clearer policies around test-optional admissions and career preparation programs reduce stress for families.
• Website Usability is Key: Students struggle to find faculty details, program specifics, and career services online, indicating a need for better digital engagement from colleges.

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How Can Students Find the Right College Fit?

Dr. Ellis emphasizes that selecting a college should be about more than just rankings or name recognition. Instead, she encourages students to focus on their own unique needs using her "Five Factors of Fit" framework. These five elements—academic alignment, campus culture, support services, financial considerations, and career preparation—help students make informed decisions that set them up for long-term success. By applying these factors to both themselves and potential colleges, students can evaluate whether an institution is the right environment for them to thrive.

Many students and parents tend to focus on superficial factors, such as a great campus tour guide or a school's location, without considering whether the college can truly support the student's goals. Dr. Ellis works with families to challenge these assumptions, ensuring that decisions are based on meaningful criteria rather than fleeting impressions. This approach helps students look beyond marketing materials and rankings to find institutions where they will genuinely thrive.

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Why is Community So Important to College Students Today?

A strong sense of community has become a top priority for students when selecting a college, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Ellis has observed a shift in students’ decision-making, where the presence of an authentic, welcoming community on campus can be a deciding factor in whether they enroll. Colleges that prioritize community-building initiatives—especially during the first year—tend to see higher retention and student satisfaction.

However, many students struggle with how to build connections when they arrive on campus. Institutions can help by creating intentional opportunities for students to engage in smaller, close-knit groups before expanding into larger networks. Residential experiences play a crucial role in fostering these relationships, allowing students to transition into college life with a strong support system. For colleges, the key is not just offering community-building programs but ensuring that they are accessible, inclusive, and actively encouraged from the moment students arrive.

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How Can Colleges Improve Their Digital Presence to Attract Students?

Students today rely heavily on college websites to gather information, but many struggle to find key details. One common frustration Dr. Ellis hears from students is the difficulty of locating information about faculty members, course offerings, and available support services. Despite the importance of faculty interaction and academic programs in the decision-making process, many colleges fail to provide clear, accessible details online.

To address this, Dr. Ellis recommends that institutions make their websites more intuitive and student-friendly. One practical approach is to create a structured research rubric for students, guiding them to essential information such as course descriptions, professor profiles, and opportunities for mentorship. By improving website usability, colleges can ensure that prospective students find the resources they need without unnecessary frustration.

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What Do Students Expect from Admissions Policies and Career Services?

Unclear admissions policies, especially around test-optional policies, are creating confusion and stress for families. Dr. Ellis points out that while some colleges claim to be test-optional, they still consider submitted scores, making it difficult for students to decide whether or not to send their results. Simplifying and clarifying these policies can reduce unnecessary anxiety for students and parents.

Beyond admissions, students are increasingly prioritizing career readiness when selecting a college. They want access to hands-on experiences, internships, and career mentorship—starting as early as freshman year. Institutions that offer robust career services, experiential learning opportunities, and industry connections from the outset have a competitive advantage in attracting students.

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About the Show: The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell‍

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Some of our favorites include Generation AI and  I Wanna Work There. 

Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

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