Opening The Door, but Not Entering: Adult College Students Who Apply, but Do Not Enroll

Earning a college degree is considered by many to be the pinnacle of success. Academic intellect, critical thinking skills, financial solvency, physical health, and family stability are all documented outcomes of people who have earned a higher education academic credential. Yet, despite these vast and evident benefits to earning a college degree, the number of adult students enrolling in college is flat or declining. This presentation will explore the reasons why adults don't move beyond the first step toward enrollment and share scalable solutions to increase engagement academically, operationally and emotionally, leading to successful enrollment.

Committee Group: Group I: Admissions and Enrollment Management

First Learning Outcome: Enhanced knowledge of adult learning theory 

Second Learning Outcome: Recruitment and support of adult students

Third Learning Outcome: Fiscal importance of successfully serving adult students

Core Competency: Problem Solving

Proficiency: Enrollment Management Proficiencies

Presenter(s): 

Juliette Punchello Thomas Edison State University

Catharine Punchello-Cobos Thomas Edison State University