How Colleges Are Using Texts, Stories, and SEO to Reach Students

Higher education is facing new pressure to reach and keep students. This week’s top stories focus on the tools and ideas colleges are using to do just that. From student-created content to better text messages, and from SEO fixes to smarter data, schools are rethinking how they connect.

One clear trend is using real voices. Student photos, testimonials, and stories can do more than glossy ads. They feel honest. When schools use user-generated content (UGC), they show real experiences. That builds trust and encourages new students to apply. Colleges that use these stories are seeing better results online and on campus.

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Another shift is how schools handle the enrollment funnel. Institutions are looking at who their students are and using data to meet them where they are. A strong brand, targeted messages, and clear digital pathways help schools bring more people in.

Text messaging is also changing the game. Students read texts more than emails. When colleges send timely, personal texts, students are more likely to stay enrolled. It makes students feel seen, even at big schools. Automated tools help teams manage this at scale without losing the personal touch.

Then there’s the matter of search engines. Many colleges miss out on traffic simply because they ignore SEO. If students can’t find a school online, they won’t apply. Simple fixes like better keywords, backlinks, and mobile design can help schools show up where students are searching.

Finally, schools are working to clean up their data. Poor data slows down decisions. Good data leads to better choices. Colleges are investing in new tools to fix data gaps, protect student info, and keep systems working together.

Together, these ideas show a big shift. Colleges are learning to listen, speak clearly, and use smarter tools to meet today’s students.

5 Takeaways

• Real stories from students build trust faster than ads.
• Text messages can improve how students feel supported.
• SEO helps students find colleges before they even apply.
• Clean, connected data leads to better decisions.
• A strong digital brand helps colleges stand out in crowded markets.

5 Controversial Ideas

• Relying too much on student content may backfire if not managed well.
• Texting students too often can feel invasive.
• Some schools still think SEO doesn’t matter for their success.
• Colleges may not be ready to invest in real data reform.
• Community building for UGC takes time many teams don’t have.

Using UGC and Authentic Storytelling For Education Marketing

Diana Salazar

https://www.higher-education-marketing.com/blog/the-power-of-user-generated-content-and-authentic-storytelling-in-education-marketing

2025-04-09T16:05:38.000Z

The Power of User-Generated Content and Authentic Storytelling in Education Marketing

Synopsis:

• User-generated content (UGC) and authentic storytelling are powerful tools in education marketing.
• UGC is any content created by students or staff that showcases their experiences and perspectives.
• Authentic storytelling involves sharing real-life stories that resonate with prospective students and build trust.
• UGC and authentic storytelling help create an emotional connection with the audience and improve brand perception.
• Educational institutions can leverage UGC for social media campaigns, testimonials, and student showcases.
• Incorporating UGC and authentic storytelling can boost enrollment and attract more diverse and engaged students.
• The article cites examples of schools that effectively use UGC and storytelling to enhance their marketing efforts.
• The author emphasizes the importance of an active and engaged community to foster UGC and storytelling.

Background resources:

• The article does not cite specific background resources.

Unique or noteworthy positions:

• The author highlights the significance of UGC and authentic storytelling specifically in the education marketing context.
• Emphasis is placed on the role of community building in encouraging UGC and authentic storytelling.

Summary with takeaways:

• User-generated content and authentic storytelling are valuable strategies in education marketing.
• UGC and authentic storytelling create an emotional connection, build trust, and improve brand perception.
• Schools can leverage UGC for social media campaigns, testimonials, and student showcases.
• Incorporating UGC and authentic storytelling helps attract diverse and engaged students, leading to increased enrollment.
• Community building is crucial for encouraging UGC and authentic storytelling.
• Examples of schools successfully using UGC and storytelling are provided.

❤️🎓 Use UGC + real stories to boost enrollment & trust in diverse students! 📚🌟 #UGC #AuthenticStorytelling #HigherEdMarketing

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Enrollment Strategies for Moving Students through the Funnel

Michael Longo

Archer Education

https://www.archeredu.com/hemj/enrollment-strategies/

2025-04-09T15:43:27.000Z

Best Practices for Enrollment Strategies

Synopsis:

In this article, the author explores best practices for enrollment strategies in educational institutions. The article provides valuable insights for institutions looking to increase their enrollment rates and attract more students.

Outline:

1. Introduction

• Importance of enrollment strategies
• Challenging landscape for educational institutions

2. Understanding the target audience

• The importance of demographic analysis
• Utilizing data to identify target markets

3. Developing a strong brand identity

• Creating a compelling mission statement and values
• Consistency in messaging and visual identity

4. Utilizing digital marketing and online platforms

• The power of social media in reaching potential students
• Optimizing websites for user experience and lead generation

5. Effective communication and relationship building

• Utilizing email marketing to nurture leads
• Personalized interactions and tailored messaging

6. Leveraging partnerships and referrals

• Building relationships with high schools and community organizations
• Encouraging alumni and current students to refer potential students

7. Unique and noteworthy positions:

• The article emphasizes the significance of understanding target audiences through demographic analysis, enabling institutions to tailor their strategies effectively.
• The author highlights the power of utilizing digital marketing, including social media, to reach and engage with potential students.

Takeaways:

• Understanding the target audience through demographic analysis is crucial for effective enrollment strategies.
• Developing a strong brand identity helps differentiate educational institutions in a competitive landscape.
• Utilizing digital marketing and online platforms, such as social media, can greatly increase visibility and engagement.
• Effective communication and personalized interactions contribute to building relationships and generating leads.
• Leveraging partnerships and referrals can be a valuable strategy for attracting new students.

⭐ Nail enrollment with audience insight, digital marketing & strong relationships! 📚🎯✨ #HigherEducation #EnrollmentStrategies

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Higher Ed Retention: Text Messaging Strategies That Work

moderncampus.com

https://moderncampus.com/blog/higher-ed-retention-text-messaging-strategies-that-work.html

2025-04-09T14:45:41.000Z

Higher Ed Retention: Text Messaging Strategies That Work

Synopsis:

• The article discusses the importance of text messaging in higher education retention strategies.
• It highlights the challenges faced by traditional communication methods and the benefits of text messaging.
• The author provides various examples of successful text messaging strategies implemented by higher education institutions.
• The article emphasizes the need for personalized and timely messages to engage students and foster a sense of belonging.
• The author suggests using automation tools and data analysis to optimize text message campaigns.
• Background resources cited in the article: American Council on Education, Inside Higher Ed.

Noteworthy positions taken by the author:

• Text messaging can play a crucial role in increasing student retention rates in higher education institutions.
• Personalized and tailored text messages are more effective in engaging students and addressing their specific needs.
• Automation tools and data analysis can enhance the efficiency and impact of text messaging campaigns.

Summary with takeaways:

• Text messaging is a powerful tool for improving student retention in higher education.
• Personalized and timely messages are essential for engaging students and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Automation tools and data analysis can optimize text message campaigns, making them more efficient and impactful.

📚✉️ Boost student retention with texts! Engage, support & optimize campaigns for success. 💯🔝 #HigherEdRetention #StudentSuccess

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The SEO Blind Spot in Higher Ed: Why Most Universities Are Invisible to Prospective Students

Manno Notermans

https://www.thinkorion.com/blog/seo-blind-spot-in-higher-education-marketing

2025-04-07T15:50:27.000Z

SEO Blind Spot in Higher Education Marketing

Synopsis:

• The article discusses the blind spot that higher education institutions have when it comes to search engine optimization (SEO) in their marketing strategies.
• It highlights how universities often overlook the importance of SEO and fail to optimize their websites and digital content to attract prospective students.
• The author points out that this blind spot is particularly detrimental as the majority of students now rely on search engines like Google to research and find information about universities and programs.
• The article explains that universities should prioritize SEO to improve their online visibility, increase organic traffic, and ultimately attract more students.
• The author suggests several SEO strategies that universities can implement, including conducting keyword research, optimizing website content, creating high-quality backlinks, and utilizing local SEO tactics.
• The article also emphasizes the role of technical SEO in improving website performance, user experience, and search engine rankings.
• The author provides examples of universities that have successfully incorporated SEO into their marketing efforts and achieved significant results.
• Overall, the article highlights the importance of SEO in higher education marketing and urges universities to address this blind spot to stay competitive in attracting prospective students.

Unique or noteworthy positions:

• The author emphasizes the specific blind spot that higher education institutions have regarding SEO and how it affects their marketing efforts.
• The article provides practical examples and strategies for universities to implement SEO effectively.
• It highlights the significance of technical SEO and user experience in the higher education sector.

Background resources:

• None mentioned in the article.

Summary and Takeaways:

• Universities often overlook the importance of SEO in their marketing strategies, resulting in a blind spot that hampers their online visibility and ability to attract prospective students.
• Prioritizing SEO can help universities improve their online presence, increase organic traffic, and ultimately draw more students to their programs.
• SEO strategies such as keyword research, content optimization, backlink building, and local SEO can be implemented by universities to enhance their digital marketing efforts.
• Technical SEO and optimizing user experience are crucial for universities to rank higher in search engine results and provide a seamless browsing experience to potential students.
• Notable examples of universities successfully incorporating SEO into their marketing are provided as inspiration for others in the higher education sector.

🎓🔍 Colleges must prioritize SEO to boost student recruitment & online visibility! 🌐💡 #HigherEd #SEOBlindSpot

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Start Earlier, Convert Better: The Data-Proven Case for Freshman and Sophomore Outreach

Lesley Delchamps

https://www.advanceeducation.com/insights/start-earlier-convert-better-the-data-proven-case-for-freshman-and-sophomore-outreach

2025-04-06T21:14:01.000Z

Start Earlier, Convert Better: The Data-Proven Case for Freshman and Sophomore Outreach

Synopsis:

• The article emphasizes the importance of early outreach to high school freshmen and sophomores for better conversion rates in higher education.
• It highlights the positive impact of engaging students in the early stages of their high school journey, providing them with guidance and support to navigate the college application and enrollment process.
• The author cites several background resources and studies that validate the effectiveness of early outreach in improving enrollment outcomes.
• Noteworthy positions taken by the author include advocating for personalized, student-centered outreach strategies and leveraging technology to reach and engage students effectively.

Key Points:

• Early outreach to high school freshmen and sophomores positively impacts college enrollment rates.
• Personalized and student-centered strategies are effective in engaging and converting students.
• Utilizing technology and data-driven approaches enhances the effectiveness of outreach efforts.
• Several studies and background resources support the importance and effectiveness of early outreach.
• The article provides examples of successful outreach programs and initiatives.

Summary and Takeaways:

The article emphasizes the significance of engaging high school freshmen and sophomores early on to improve college enrollment rates. By providing personalized and student-centered support, colleges can increase conversion rates. Leveraging technology and data-driven strategies enhances the effectiveness of these outreach efforts. Various studies and resources validate the benefits of early outreach. The article highlights successful programs and initiatives that have demonstrated positive outcomes. Educators and colleges should prioritize early engagement with freshmen and sophomores to improve enrollment outcomes.

Start early, convert better! 🎓📚 Engage freshmen & sophomores for higher enrollment. Personalization & tech are key. #EarlyOutreachSuccess #HigherEdConversion

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Traditional Vs. Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education

moderncampus.com

https://moderncampus.com/blog/traditional-vs-non-traditional-students-in-higher-education.html

2025-04-04T13:42:49.000Z

Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education

Synopsis:

• The article discusses the differences between traditional and non-traditional students in higher education.
• Traditional students are those who enroll immediately after high school, attend full-time, and live on campus.
• Non-traditional students, on the other hand, are older, have work or family responsibilities, and often attend part-time or online.
• The article highlights the changing demographics and increasing prevalence of non-traditional students in higher education.
• It explores the challenges faced by non-traditional students, including financial constraints, balancing multiple responsibilities, and lack of support systems.
• The author suggests that higher education institutions need to adapt to better serve non-traditional students and provide resources tailored to their unique needs.
• The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse experiences and perspectives that non-traditional students bring to the classroom.

Background resources:

• The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
• American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU)
• Lumina Foundation

Unique or noteworthy positions taken by the author:

• The author argues that traditional measures of student success, such as graduation rates, may not accurately represent the success of non-traditional students who may take longer to complete their degrees due to various constraints.
• The article suggests that institutions should focus on outcomes beyond graduation rates, such as career advancement, skills gained, and personal growth, to fully measure the impact of education on non-traditional students.

Summary with takeaways:

• The demographics of students in higher education are changing, with an increasing number of non-traditional students.
• Non-traditional students face unique challenges and require tailored support from institutions.
• Institutions should consider alternative measures of success beyond graduation rates for non-traditional students.
• Recognizing and valuing the experiences and perspectives of non-traditional students is important for fostering diversity and inclusion in higher education.

Traditional or non-traditional? 🎓💼💪 Higher ed must adapt to diverse student needs & measure success beyond graduation rates! #HigherEd #DiversityMatters

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Higher Ed Marketing Budget – Strategies, Allocation, and Optimization

Manno Notermans

https://www.thinkorion.com/blog/higher-education-marketing-budget

2025-04-03T21:07:32.000Z

Higher Education Marketing Budget

Synopsis:

• The article discusses the importance of marketing budgets for higher education institutions.
• Higher education institutions are facing increasing competition and need to allocate sufficient funds to marketing efforts.
• The author emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to marketing budget allocation and highlights the key areas where budget should be allocated.
• The article provides insights into effective marketing strategies and tactics for higher education institutions.
• The author suggests investing in digital marketing, social media advertising, content creation, and CRM systems.
• The article highlights the significance of tracking and analyzing marketing metrics to optimize budget allocation and measure ROI.
• The author emphasizes the need for continuous assessment and adjustment of the marketing budget based on results and changing market conditions.
• The article references various studies and industry reports to support the discussion.

Unique/Noteworthy positions:

• The author emphasizes the importance of investing in digital marketing and social media advertising for higher education institutions.
• The article highlights the significance of content creation as a valuable marketing tactic.
• The author suggests the use of CRM systems to enhance marketing efforts and improve communication with prospective students.
• Continuous assessment and adjustment of the marketing budget based on results and market conditions is emphasized by the author.

Summary and Takeaways:

• Higher education institutions need to allocate sufficient funds to marketing efforts to stay competitive in the evolving landscape.
• Strategic budget allocation is crucial, with emphasis on digital marketing, social media advertising, content creation, and CRM systems.
• Tracking and analyzing marketing metrics is key to optimizing budget allocation and measuring ROI.
• Continuous assessment and adjustment of the marketing budget based on results and changing market conditions is necessary for success.
• Investing in effective marketing strategies can help higher education institutions reach their enrollment and branding goals.

🎓 Higher ed must strategically allocate marketing budgets for digital, social media, & content to hit enrollment goals. Assess & adjust for success! 💰📈 #HigherEdMarketing

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Baldwin County Public Schools Marketing Case Study

Lesley Delchamps

https://www.advanceeducation.com/case-study/baldwin-county-public-school

2025-04-03T18:14:44.000Z

Baldwin County Public Schools: A Case Study in Education Transformation

Synopsis:

• The article explores the case of Baldwin County Public Schools in Alabama as a successful example of education transformation.
• It discusses the challenges faced by the school district and the strategies implemented to improve student achievement and engagement.
• The article highlights the importance of technology integration, professional development, and community partnerships in driving positive change.
• Relevant background resources:
  • Baldwin County Public Schools website: www.bcbe.org
  • Alabama Department of Education website: [www.alsde.edu]

Noteworthy positions:

• The author emphasizes the significance of aligning technology initiatives with pedagogical goals to maximize their impact.
• The article emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of continuous professional development to improve teaching practices.

Summary:

• Baldwin County Public Schools faced challenges such as overcrowding, outdated facilities, and achievement gaps.
• The district implemented an ambitious technology integration initiative, providing devices and software to all students and teachers.
• Professional development programs were established to support teachers in effectively using technology and implementing innovative instructional strategies.
• Community partnerships played a crucial role, providing resources and support for initiatives such as STEM education and career pathways.
• As a result, the district saw improved student achievement, increased graduation rates, and higher college enrollment.

Takeaways:

• Technology integration, when aligned with pedagogical goals, can be a powerful tool for improving student engagement and achievement.
• Continuous professional development is essential for educators to effectively utilize technology and implement innovative teaching methods.
• Community partnerships can provide valuable resources and support to boost educational initiatives.

💡✨ Baldwin County Public Schools in Alabama boosted student achievement & graduation rates with tech, training, & community partnerships. 📚🚀 #EdTransformation #Innovation

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Four Pillars of Higher Ed Enrollment Marketing

Dave Martel

https://www.advanceeducation.com/insights/four-pillars-of-higher-ed-enrollment-marketing-whitepaper-nagap

2025-04-03T15:57:58.000Z

Four Pillars of Higher Ed Enrollment Marketing

Synopsis:

• This article discusses the four pillars of higher education enrollment marketing identified in a whitepaper by NAGAP (National Association of Graduate Admission Professionals).
• The four pillars are: Branding and Reputation, Outreach and Engagement, Assessment and Analytics, and Innovation and Adaptation.
• The article provides a brief overview of each pillar and highlights the importance of incorporating these strategies into enrollment marketing efforts.

Background Resources:

• The whitepaper by NAGAP

Noteworthy positions taken by the author:

• The author emphasizes the significance of each pillar and suggests that successful enrollment marketing relies on a combination of all four strategies.
• The author highlights the growing importance of assessment and analytics in guiding enrollment marketing decisions for higher education institutions.

Summary:

• The whitepaper by NAGAP outlines four key pillars for successful enrollment marketing in higher education: Branding and Reputation, Outreach and Engagement, Assessment and Analytics, and Innovation and Adaptation.
• Each pillar is briefly described, emphasizing the importance of incorporating all four strategies into enrollment marketing efforts.
• The role of assessment and analytics in guiding marketing decisions is highlighted as a growing trend in the field.

Takeaways:

• Successful enrollment marketing in higher education relies on four pillars: Branding and Reputation, Outreach and Engagement, Assessment and Analytics, and Innovation and Adaptation.
• Incorporating all four strategies into marketing efforts is crucial for achieving enrollment goals.
• Utilizing assessment and analytics can provide valuable insights to guide marketing decisions.

Four key pillars for successful enrollment marketing: Branding 🏫, Outreach 🗣️, Analytics 📊, and Innovation 🚀 #HigherEdMarketing #EnrollmentStrategies

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Final Thoughts:

Schools are rethinking the old playbook. They’re testing new tools and learning from students along the way. Whether it’s a better tweet, a smarter funnel, or cleaner data, each change helps students feel more connected—and more likely to stay.