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College Admissions Process Changes

by Marion Wells

Q. As we embrace today's global society, how do the changing demographics in the United States affect the college admissions process?

A. A number of studies have been conducted focusing on the Changing Demographics and Generational shifts in the United States. This topic is important as colleges and universities design programs and services for the changing student and family populations on today's campuses.  One study I found quite interesting was conducted by the Education Testing Services (ETS). In 2000 this study addressed the changes, challenges and opportunities that these new students will bring to campuses.  Listed below are a few key facts I learned.

  • Colleges and Universities will pay attention to census projections to determine the number of students projected for enrollment as well as the data coming from ETS and College Board.  This data helps four year, public, private, community Colleges and Universities plan for enrollment increases and decreases. Utilizing the demographics of students taking college entrance exams, ETS estimates an increase of over 3 million college students by 2015. Underrepresented students will make up 2 million of that increase. In addition to these students the new cohort of students will include many older students who are opting to go to college because it has become a prerequisite for good jobs. Colleges and Universities recognize that many of these new students will be the first generation in their family to attend college.  Colleges and Universities will have a more diverse applicant pool to select from and competition for limited spots for the average student will increase. Colleges can afford to be selective, keeping in mind, they also want classroom to reflect our society. Therefore, there is no guarantee that the smart student will get accepted at their top choices.
  • Resources and programs to address the needs of a diverse student are changing. Faculty must be empathetic, and admissions, financial aid, residence life, and other key offices must take additional time and care in working with families, of First Generation College students.  Awareness and readiness to support first generation college students and their families, as well as provide different services to families who are unfamiliar with higher education is critical. Families have to evaluate their options as they go through the college selection process.
  • Clearly it will cost a great deal of money to educate this larger more diverse cohort of students. Some states are in better position than others and can keep tuition hikes to a minimum.  Others aren't so lucky and must raise tuition to cover the increased cost of servicing the needs of a diverse student population. Families will want to ensure that all of their needs are being met before they write the check or take out the loan.

In closing, the effect of changing demographics suggest that the challenges of improving equity in admissions will continue to be an important issue in college admissions over the next several years.

Marion Wells an education enthusiast and founder of UR-Worthy College and Career readiness coaching services will discuss The Effect of Changing Demographic on Our Colleges and Universities.  She can be reached at 248-345-9378 or www.ur-worthy.com. Ms. Wells will be one of the panelists for Today's Changing Landscape for College Admissions.  See following details regarding the presentation.

SAVE the DATE
Wednesday, November 3, 7pm
Today's Changing Landscape for College Admissions
A conversation for parents of students in grades 10th, 11th and 12th featuring an interactive discussion about navigating the college selection process in today's competitive culture.
Grosse Pointe South High School Auditorium
11 Grosse Pointe Blvd, Grosse Pointe Farms
No Fee. Info 313.432.3832
      
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