The “Invisible” Student: Addressing Equity in Recruitment and Retention

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About the Episode:

In this thought-provoking episode, Mallory and Seth discuss the transformative potential of AI in addressing equity challenges in higher education. They explore how AI can help institutions better serve "invisible students" — nontraditional learners, first-generation students, and those balancing work or family responsibilities. Highlighting the intersection of technology and education, they provide actionable strategies to improve student success, persistence, and graduation rates.

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Key Takeaways

• AI as a Catalyst for Equity:
  • Proactively identifies and supports at-risk students through early intervention.
  • Personalizes educational journeys with tailored resources and support.
  • Ensures 24/7 access to tools and services for students with nontraditional schedules.
  • Provides data-driven insights to reshape institutional policies and resource allocation.
• The Importance of Just-in-Time Resources:
  • Students need accessible support at the exact moment they encounter challenges.
  • AI can enable 24/7 assistance across admissions, academic advising, and financial aid.
• Breaking Down Barriers for First-Generation Students:
  • Address gaps in institutional knowledge with accessible, plain-language communication.
  • Use AI to seamlessly translate materials into multiple languages to meet diverse needs.
• Affordability of AI Solutions:
  • Many AI tools are cost-effective, making them accessible for under-resourced institutions like community colleges.
• The Role of Product Design in Student Success:
  • Institutions must design flexible programs to ensure students can re-enroll seamlessly after life interruptions.

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Episode Summary

Why "Invisible Students" Need Attention

Mallory sets the stage by defining invisible students as those who often go unnoticed in traditional education systems—such as first-generation students, working adults, and part-time learners. These populations represent a significant portion of the student body but are disproportionately likely to face barriers to graduation, compounding financial challenges like student loan debt.

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How AI Can Help

AI-first strategies can transform how institutions support these students:

1. Proactive Intervention: Predictive analytics identify early warning signs of student disengagement.
2. Personalized Education: Tailored experiences boost engagement and retention.
3. Accessible Support: AI-powered virtual assistants offer help 24/7, meeting students at their point of need.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making: Institutions can reallocate resources based on real-time insights.

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Real-World Example: Trinity Valley Community College

Mallory highlights Trinity Valley Community College’s success in implementing AI tools to address the needs of working students. Their AI assistant supports enrollment and student engagement, resulting in an 18% increase in their graduating class—an example of AI's tangible impact on student success.

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The Need for Product Innovation

Seth emphasizes the importance of designing flexible program structures. For example:

• Avoid term-based models that create re-entry barriers for students who need to pause their education.
• Explore asynchronous and competency-based education models to meet the diverse needs of modern learners.

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Final Thoughts

The conversation underscores the importance of leveraging AI to support nontraditional learners and first-generation students. Seth and Mallory emphasize that affordability and accessibility are key to implementing these solutions effectively, particularly for community colleges and other under-resourced institutions.

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Connect With Our Hosts:

Mallory Willsea
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallorywillsea/
https://twitter.com/mallorywillsea

Seth Odell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethodell/
https://twitter.com/sethodell

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network: The Higher Ed Pulse 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 Confessions of a Higher Education Social Media Manager.

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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